ABS 2021 Census · Updated 31 March 2026
Balmain is a well-established middle-ring suburb of Sydney, Australia, with a population of approximately 10,454, making it a smaller community. Located 3 km from the Sydney CBD, Balmain is a middle ring area in New South Wales. The median household income is $158,028 AUD per year (ABS 2021 Census).
Above-average earnings in Balmain support sustained property values. Its proximity to the CBD adds a strong location premium.
Map shows Balmain, New South Wales, Australia.
Official Australia Post postcode for Balmain. A postcode may cover multiple suburbs.
Australia Post Postcode Finder →Usual resident population at census night. Source: ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.
ABS Census Data →Weekly median rent for occupied private dwellings. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Live rental data integration coming soon.
State Rental Authority →Annual median household income (before tax) for all households. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Straight-line distance from the suburb centroid (ABS 2021 SAL geography) to the nearest capital city CBD. Actual driving distance will be longer.
Estimated 3 schools within or near this suburb based on ABS 2021 data.
Find schools near Balmain on My School →Estimated 4 parks and green spaces near this suburb. Source: ABS 2021 data.
Monthly median mortgage repayment for households currently paying off a mortgage. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Proportion of separate houses vs units, townhouses, and other dwelling types. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Relevant for investors assessing rental demand mix.
ABS Census Data →Balmain's middle-ring location balances affordability with accessibility. These suburbs often benefit from established infrastructure, good schools, and transport links — making them attractive to families and long-term tenants. The median rent of $625/week (ABS 2021) indicates a premium rental market. Owner-occupiers face a median mortgage repayment of $3,986/month. A median household income of $158,028/year supports premium property values and indicates a well-employed resident base. With only 19% separate houses, Balmain has a significant apartment and unit market — typical of inner-city investment corridors.
Solid fundamentals in Balmain support capital growth over a medium to long hold period.
Strong tenant demand in Balmain underpins consistent rental income and low vacancy risk.
Balmain's established market and growing population make it a viable location for value-add renovations.
Run the numbers on a Balmain property
Scenario comparison, cash flow analysis, tax modelling, and PDF export — all in one place.
Create free account →The outlook for capital growth in Balmain is encouraging heading into 2026, driven by constrained supply and buyer competition. The rental market in Balmain should see steady occupancy, with moderate upward pressure on rents. Balmain remains on the radar of active property investors in New South Wales.
Balmain is a middle ring area in New South Wales with a population of 10,454. The median rent is $625/week and the median household income is $158,028/year (ABS 2021 Census). As with any property investment, conduct thorough due diligence on current listings, vacancy rates, and local infrastructure plans before committing.
Key demand drivers in Balmain include established amenities and transport access. 19% of dwellings are separate houses. The area has approximately 3 schools and 4 parks nearby.
According to the ABS 2021 Census, Balmain has a population of approximately 10,454. For historical population trends and intercensal estimates, visit the ABS Census Data Explorer at abs.gov.au.
Balmain is approximately 3 km straight-line distance from the Sydney CBD (calculated from ABS 2021 suburb centroid coordinates). This close proximity means excellent access to employment, dining, and entertainment.