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Surry Hills

NSW 2010LGA: City of Sydney

Investment Score

78

/100

AI Intelligence Summary

Surry Hills is one of Sydney's most vibrant inner-city suburbs, located just 2km south of the CBD. This former industrial area has transformed into a trendy cultural hub known for its eclectic mix of heritage terrace houses, converted warehouses, and modern apartments. The suburb boasts an exceptional dining scene, boutique shopping along Crown Street, and a thriving arts community. With excellent transport links including Central Station nearby and multiple bus routes, Surry Hills attracts young professionals, creatives, and downsizers seeking an urban lifestyle. The median house price of $2.15 million reflects its premium positioning, while the 3.1% rental yield indicates strong investment demand. The area's character is defined by tree-lined streets, Victorian architecture, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that seamlessly blends residential living with commercial activity. Recent urban renewal projects and the suburb's proximity to major employment hubs make it highly desirable for both owner-occupiers and investors.

Strengths

  • •Prime inner-city location with 2km proximity to Sydney CBD
  • •Exceptional transport connectivity including Central Station access
  • •Vibrant cultural scene with renowned restaurants, cafes, and nightlife
  • •Strong rental demand from young professionals and city workers

Opportunities

  • •Continued gentrification driving long-term capital growth potential
  • •Strong short-term rental market due to tourist and business traveler demand
  • •Apartment market offering more accessible entry points than houses
  • •Infrastructure improvements enhancing connectivity and amenity

Considerations

  • •High entry point with $2.15 million median house price limiting affordability
  • •Limited parking and high density living may deter some buyers
  • •Noise and activity levels typical of inner-city urban environment
  • •Relatively low rental yield of 3.1% impacting cash flow returns

A decision, not just a search · Surry Hills

Does a promising suburb make this the right property decision?

No. Suburb data can help you shortlist, but it cannot establish the value, condition or suitability of a particular property. Compare buying, retaining your current property and waiting against your household cash flow, finance conditions and intended holding period.

Questions that could change the answer

  • What would make this location unsuitable even if its median price rises?
  • Could you meet the costs if income falls, the property is vacant or repairs are needed?
  • Are you comparing a specific property with genuinely comparable sales—or only an area average?

Evidence to obtain—not yet verified here

  • Comparable property evidence with transaction dates and relevant differences.
  • Current loan terms, household commitments and a realistic cash-flow buffer.
  • Property inspections, contract advice and ownership/tax advice where relevant.

Other options: Shortlist another property, retain what you own, reduce the budget or delay. Growth expectations alone are not a reason to proceed.

Next action: Ask a Property Advisor to connect the property evidence with your priorities, and identify the finance, tax or legal professional required for unresolved questions.

When to revisit: Revisit if the price, lending terms, inspection findings or household circumstances change.

General decision guidance—not a property assessment, personal recommendation or verified client result. Dates on surrounding market content apply to that content, not to checks on your property.

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Property Market

Median House

$2.15M

+5.8% 1yr

Median Unit

$950K

+4.5% 1yr

Rent (House)

$1,280/wk

Rent (Unit)

$785/wk

Days on Market

26

Vacancy Rate

2.1%

Auction Clearance

71.2%

Price Growth

Type1 Year3 Year5 Year
House+5.8%—+25.3%
Unit+4.5%—+19.8%

Rental Yields

House Yield

3.1%

Unit Yield

4.3%

Investment Scorecard

Overall Investment Score78/100
Growth Potential82/100
Cashflow Score58/100
Risk Score (lower = safer)75/100
Affordability Index45/100

Tax & Financial Intelligence

CPA-grade analysis for Surry Hills at median house price

Stamp Duty Estimate
Standard transfer
$100,640
First Home Buyer
$100,640
Foreign buyer surcharge
$172,000

+8% surcharge

Negative Gearing Position

Wage offset available until 1 July 2027

An established purchase today falls under the 2026 reforms. From 1 July 2027, losses on established residential property can only offset residential rental income or residential capital gains — not your salary.

Annual rent income
$66,560

$1280/wk

Interest (80% LVR @ 6.5%)
-$111,800
Other expenses (~2.5%)
-$53,750
Net rental position
-$98,990

Negatively geared

Tax benefit (39% MTR)
+$38,606

Reduces taxable income until 1 July 2027

After-tax holding cost
$60,384/yr

~$1,161/week

Land Tax Exposure
Est. land value
$1.29M

~60% of median price

Individual threshold
$1,075,000

Annual: $3,540

Trust/company threshold
$25,000 (trust)

Annual: $20,340

CPA Note: Land tax applies to your total NSW land holdings, not individual properties. Portfolio holders should aggregate all investment land values.

CGT Projection

Based on 5.1% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), CPI indexation + 30% minimum rate, 39% MTR

5-Year Hold

Est. value
$2.75M
Capital gain
$490,464
Assessable gain
$193,299
CGT payable
$75,387

10-Year Hold

Est. value
$3.52M
Capital gain
$1.26M
Assessable gain
$627,417
CGT payable
$244,693

Investor Quick Summary

Entry cost (stamp duty)

$100,640

After-tax yield

1.89%

Weekly holding cost

$1161/wk

10yr CGT (est.)

$244,693

Estimates based on FY2025 NSW rates at median house price. Assumes 80% LVR, 6.5% interest rate, 39% marginal tax rate ($135K-$190K bracket). This calculator provides estimates for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or investment advice. Results depend on assumptions that may not reflect your actual situation. Tax laws, interest rates, and market conditions change frequently. Always consult a qualified professional — such as a CPA, mortgage broker, or financial adviser — before making financial decisions. Local Knowledge Group of Companies provides integrated advisory through Local Knowledge (CPA), Local Knowledge Finance (Mortgage Brokerage), and Local Knowledge Property (Licensed Agency).

Demographics

Population

15,820

Median Age

35

Median Income

$77K

per annum

Lifestyle & Community

Walkability96/100
Public Transport95/10
Schools Rating78/10

Cosmopolitan lifestyle with world-class dining, boutique shopping, galleries, and vibrant nightlife. Walking and cycling culture with excellent cafe scene and cultural events.

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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 11 April 2026.

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