True Cost of Buying in The Rocks
2000 NSW · 1km to CBD
Market Intelligence
The Rocks is Sydney's most historic suburb, representing the birthplace of modern Australia with its cobblestone streets and sandstone buildings. Located on Sydney Harbour's southern shore, it offers unparalleled access to the CBD, iconic harbour views, and world-class dining and cultural experiences. With a small residential population of approximately 1,300 residents, The Rocks functions as both a premium residential enclave and major tourist destination. The suburb commands some of Sydney's highest property prices due to its heritage significance, harbour location, and extreme scarcity of available housing stock. Most residences are converted heritage apartments in buildings dating from the 1800s, creating a unique living environment steeped in Australian history. The area benefits from excellent public transport connectivity through Circular Quay and walking access to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, and CBD employment centres. Investment appeal is driven by capital growth potential and strong rental demand from both long-term tenants and short-term accommodation markets, though heritage restrictions limit development opportunities.
Market Snapshot
Median House
$4.2M
+12.5% 1yr
Median Apartment
$2.1M
+11.8% 1yr
Median Townhouse
—
Vacancy Rate
1.8%
35 avg DOM
Yield (Apartment)
3.5%
Yield (House)
2.8%
Auction Clearance
78%
Population
1,300
True Cost Breakdown
Based on median prices · 20% deposit · 6.5% interest · 30-year term · Owner-occupier
Apartment
Purchase Price
$2,100,000
Stamp Duty
$97,910
1st Year Total
$139,928
House
Purchase Price
$4,200,000
Stamp Duty
$294,000
1st Year Total
$280,944
Run Your Own Numbers
These are median figures. Plug in the actual property you're looking at to see your real all-in cost — including first-home concessions, investment deductions, or different deposit amounts.
Community Profile
Median Income
$145,000
Median Age
48
Family Households
35%
Owner-Occupied
55%
Walkability
95/100
Public Transport
10/10
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