The 5 most expensive suburbs in Sydney

Sydney: a city where the sun shines bright, the beaches are golden, and the property prices? Well, they're in a league of their own.

If you're considering buying in or moving to the Harbour City, this guide to the most expensive suburbs in Sydney breaks down a handful of Sydney’s priciest postcodes. It offers a closer look at the top luxury suburbs in Sydney and what sets them apart.

So, brace yourself for a journey through some of Australia's most opulent and wallet-stretching suburbs. Let's dive in.

Sydney - the most expensive city in Australia

Let’s get one thing out of the way: Sydney is officially the most expensive place for housing in Australia. Including utilities, it’s 61% higher than the cost in Darwin, which holds the title as the cheapest capital city. Interestingly enough, many are now looking north for better value.

If you’re comparing cities, renting a two-bedroom apartment in Sydney will cost you about $694 more per month than in Melbourne. If you want to live in a high-end area, that jumps to $1,020.

Darwin is around 46% cheaper than Sydney overall. Rents are a whopping $1,557 less per month on average, though you’ll pay more for utilities and household goods. 

An interesting comparison both to Darwin and the most expensive suburbs in Sydney are, of course, the cheapest suburbs in Sydney.

It is still the most expensive city in Australia when it comes to buying a home or renting. And, if you thought that was steep, wait until you check out the neighbourhoods that push that average even higher.

So, which Sydney suburb sits at the very top of the property ladder?

The most expensive suburb in Australia (hint: it’s in Sydney)

If you’re wondering where the priciest patch of Aussie turf is, it’s Bellevue Hill—and yes, it’s a Sydney suburb. Even though the median house price took a modest dip of 3.3% over the last 12 months, it hasn’t budged from the top spot. We’re talking a jaw-dropping median price of $8.51 million, making it the only suburb in the country where the median kicks off with an eight.

Inside the most expensive suburbs in Sydney

1. Bellevue Hill - Top tier real estate

As mentioned up top, Bellevue Hill isn’t just a Sydney favourite; it holds the title of the most expensive suburb in the entire country. Sitting pretty in the Eastern Suburbs, it’s got everything: sparkling harbour views, easy access to the CBD and Bondi, leafy streets, and homes that turn heads (and open wallets).

This suburb has long been a magnet for those who want the best of the best. Think grand estates, and designer renovations—and it’s not just about looks. House prices in Bellevue Hill have jumped 9.6% recently, now sitting at a mind-blowing median of $9.75 million. Units are on the rise too, climbing 13.6% to a median of $1.545 million. 

If you’re looking for a suburb that offers high-end, well—everything, Bellevue Hill delivers. It’s exclusive, elegant, and in demand. You’re not just buying a home here; you’re buying a postcode with a whole lot of bragging rights.

You can explore land values and property sale prices across NSW to see how Bellevue Hill compares with other high-performing areas.

Why buyers love Bellevue Hill:

• Short drive to Bondi, Double Bay, and the CBD
• Home to some of Sydney’s most elite private schools
• Spacious blocks with harbour views and historic mansions
• Quiet, leafy streets with high privacy

2. Point Piper - The pricey peninsula

Point Piper is Sydney’s ultimate symbol of luxury, where a rich history meets the glittering harbourfront. Over the past decade, it’s become something of a reference point for high-end living, consistently racking up record-breaking sales and attracting some of the wealthiest buyers in the country and the world.

In April 2023, a property on Wunulla Road sold for a casual $68 million. Just two months later, two homes on Wolseley Road fetched $60 million each. And the momentum didn’t stop there.

By March 2024, another sale on Wolseley Road reached $51.5 million. Even the more "affordable" end of the street includes jaw-dropping deals like $24.5 million at 14A Wunulla Road and $23 million at 99 Wolseley Road.

Once a quiet residential pocket, Point Piper is now a magnet for international investors, celebrities, and those seeking a seriously high-calibre lifestyle. From heritage-listed mansions to sleek architectural masterpieces, the suburb offers a seamless blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge luxury.

If you want front-row seats to Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, and if your budget can match, Point Piper is where you’ll find them.

What makes Point Piper stand out:

• Harbourfront estates with iconic views
• Consistent record-breaking sales (up to $68 million)
• Home to high-profile Australians and global investors
• Prestigious, tightly held street addresses like Wolseley Road

3. Vaucluse - Coastal views and serious curbside appeal

Vaucluse is one of those suburbs that feels like a secret escape while still being unmistakably elite. Think sweeping ocean views, grand estates, and calm whispers of: "Yes, I cost millions."

Latest market data shows the median property price in Vaucluse has hovered around $7.79 million for houses and $1.457 million for units. While those price tags are undeniably steep, what’s more interesting is how rental yields and long-term demand continue to evolve.

Houses in the suburb rent out for roughly $2,800 per week, giving an annual rental yield of around 1.5%. Units, on the other hand, rent for about $930 per week with a stronger yield of 3.3%.

Growth-wise, the market has seen a dip, with houses down by 12.6% and units by 3.2% in the past year. But don’t let the numbers scare you, this suburb still has long-term appeal, thanks to its unbeatable location, privacy, and prestige.

If you're looking for coastal elegance with a bit of breathing space (and you’ve got the budget to back it up), Vaucluse is a strong contender. It might not be breaking records like some of its neighbours, but it remains one of the richest suburbs in Sydney.

Why buyers choose Vaucluse:

• Coastal cliffs and oceanfront reserves (e.g. Diamond Bay)
• Strong prestige appeal with grand federation homes
• Quiet, residential vibe with large blocks
• Views of both the ocean and Sydney Harbour

4. Rose Bay - Beachside bliss meets big budgets

Rose Bay has that easy, breezy feel that makes you forget you’re just a stone’s throw from the city. With waterfront cafés, palm-lined streets and a relaxed pace, it gives off strong holiday-at-home energy.

Prices here definitely reflect the postcode. Median property prices over the last year range from $5,322,500 for houses to $1,600,000 for units, but it’s not just about the dollars. 

It’s the lifestyle people are paying for—easy access to harbour beaches, ferry connections, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Rose Bay is popular with families, professionals, and anyone who likes their brunch with a side of harbour views. 

Things move quickly here. Rentals don’t sit on the market for long, and there’s always someone ready to snap up a sunny balcony with a sea breeze. If you’re after harbourside charm without going full Point Piper, Rose Bay might just be the sweet spot.

Why people love Rose Bay:

• Beachside cafés and walking trails along the harbour
• A family-friendly feel with quick city ferry access
• Median unit prices offer slightly better entry points
• Relaxed, village-like atmosphere with luxury touches

5. Mosman - Family charm with a millionaire's view

Mosman is one of those rare suburbs that pulls off practical and posh in equal measure—it’s consistently ranked among the most liveable and luxurious suburbs in Sydney. Sitting proudly on the Lower North Shore, it’s known for its heritage homes, leafy streets, and sparkling views over Sydney Harbour.

Right now, the median house price sits at $5.5 million, with homes spending around 52 days on the market. That places Mosman among the strongest performers when it comes to property prices in Sydney’s top suburbs, balancing prestige with long-term value. It’s a suburb where families settle in for the long haul. Think park-filled weekends, school runs in luxury SUVs, and a solid sense of community behind the prestige.

As for rentals, houses go for around $1,995 a week, and investors can expect yields around 1.68%. It’s not exactly a bargain hunter’s paradise, but that’s not really what Mosman is about. This is a place where lifestyle leads and capital growth follows.

With nearly a third of the suburb made up of green space (hello, 45 parks), and a population that skews toward established families and professionals, Mosman offers a stable, well-rounded option for those who want both views and value.

Why Mosman stands out:

• Huge green space with 45 parks and reserves
• Close-knit community with top schools and boutique shops
• Balanced lifestyle for professionals and families alike
• Classic federation homes and architect-designed new builds

What the experts are saying about the most expensive city in Australia

Even with the property market taking a bit of a nap across most of the country, Sydney’s luxury scene is still flexing. According to CoreLogic and PropTrack, the past 12 months have seen the high-end suburbs hold their ground. Why? 

Well, there’s not much on the market, loads of demand, and everyone still wants a slice of that luxury living. That combo keeps prices looking pretty perky.

“Despite rising interest rates, demand for high-end property remains strong due to limited supply,” said Eliza Owen, CoreLogic’s Head of Research.

Making your million-dollar move smoother

Buying into Sydney’s most expensive suburbs isn’t just a transaction; it’s a transition. And whether you’re upgrading, relocating, or finally snapping up that dream address, one thing’s for sure: moving day matters.

That’s where Upmove comes in. Upmove's vetted removalists know exactly how to handle the kind of move that comes with serious square meterage. From packing delicate items to navigating tight driveways and city traffic, they’ve got it covered. Because if you’re making a million-dollar move, your moving experience should feel just as polished. 

With homes this exclusive, it makes sense to choose a moving partner who handles high-end relocations with care and precision. Find and book your removalists on Upmove today and make sure your next move is smooth and hassle-free—or check out our relocation guide and moving house checklist for Sydney if you’re just getting started.