ABS 2021 Census · Updated 31 March 2026
Rockdale is an outer-metropolitan suburb of Sydney, Australia, with a population of approximately 15,475, making it a smaller community. Located approximately 11 km from the Sydney CBD, Rockdale is a outer metro area in New South Wales. The median household income is $99,112 AUD per year (ABS 2021 Census).
Above-average earnings in Rockdale support sustained property values. Its proximity to the CBD adds a strong location premium.
Map shows Rockdale, New South Wales, Australia.
Official Australia Post postcode for Rockdale. 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 4 schools within or near this suburb based on ABS 2021 data.
Find schools near Rockdale on My School →Estimated 6 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 →Rockdale's outer-metropolitan position means more affordable entry points for investors, with potential for capital growth as infrastructure extends outward. Demand is often driven by young families seeking space and value. The median rent of $460/week (ABS 2021) indicates a mid-range rental market. Owner-occupiers face a median mortgage repayment of $2,167/month. The median household income of $99,112/year reflects a solid demographic, supporting sustainable rental demand. With only 22% separate houses, Rockdale has a significant apartment and unit market — typical of inner-city investment corridors.
Rockdale offers moderate buy-and-hold potential — look for properties with value-add opportunities.
Rental returns in Rockdale are attractive relative to purchase prices, supporting positive cash flow.
Rockdale's established market and growing population make it a viable location for value-add renovations.
Run the numbers on a Rockdale property
Scenario comparison, cash flow analysis, tax modelling, and PDF export — all in one place.
Create free account →Rockdale is expected to see moderate price growth in 2026 as the broader New South Wales market stabilises. The rental market in Rockdale should see steady occupancy, with moderate upward pressure on rents. Confidence in Rockdale's medium-term prospects is reflected in sustained buyer interest.
Rockdale is a outer metro area in New South Wales with a population of 15,475. The median rent is $460/week and the median household income is $99,112/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 Rockdale include affordability relative to inner suburbs and expanding infrastructure. 22% of dwellings are separate houses. The area has approximately 4 schools and 6 parks nearby.
According to the ABS 2021 Census, Rockdale has a population of approximately 15,475. For historical population trends and intercensal estimates, visit the ABS Census Data Explorer at abs.gov.au.
Rockdale is approximately 11 km straight-line distance from the Sydney CBD (calculated from ABS 2021 suburb centroid coordinates). This is within comfortable commuting range with good transport links.