Darlington
Investment Score
78
/100
AI Intelligence Summary
Darlington is a unique inner-city suburb located just 3km south of Sydney CBD, characterized by its institutional nature as home to the University of Sydney's main campus. With a population of approximately 2,800, the suburb is dominated by students, academics, and young professionals, creating a transient but vibrant community. The property market is heavily influenced by university proximity, with limited residential stock consisting mainly of apartments and converted terraces that command strong rental yields due to consistent student demand. While traditional retail amenities are limited within the suburb itself, residents benefit from excellent connectivity to nearby Newtown and Redfern for entertainment and dining. The area offers exceptional public transport access with Redfern Station nearby and multiple bus routes to the CBD. Future infrastructure developments, including potential Sydney Metro West connections, position Darlington for continued growth. The suburb's academic atmosphere, cultural diversity from international students, and proximity to Sydney Park create a distinctive urban village feel. Investment prospects remain strong due to the stability of the education sector and ongoing university expansion plans.
Strengths
- •Prime location 3km from Sydney CBD
- •University of Sydney campus provides stable rental demand
- •Excellent public transport connectivity
- •Strong rental yields from student accommodation
Opportunities
- •University expansion and infrastructure upgrades
- •Potential Sydney Metro West connectivity improvements
- •Growing international student market
- •Gentrification spillover from neighboring suburbs
Considerations
- •Limited traditional retail and dining options within suburb
- •High proportion of transient student population
- •Limited residential housing stock
- •Competition from purpose-built student accommodation
Property Market
$1.65M
+8.5% 1yr
$850K
+6.8% 1yr
$1.20M
$1,350/wk
$950/wk
25
1.2%
78.0%
Price Growth
| Type | 1 Year | 3 Year | 5 Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| House | +8.5% | +18.2% | +35.8% |
| Unit | +6.8% | +15.5% | +28.9% |
Rental Yields
House Yield
4.2%
Unit Yield
5.8%
Townhouse Yield
4.8%
Investment Scorecard
Demand/Supply Ratio: 2.10
Demand exceeds supply — favourable for sellers
Tax & Financial Intelligence
CPA-grade analysis for Darlington at median house price
+8% surcharge
$1350/wk
Negatively geared
Reduces taxable income
~$667/week
Based on 7.2% p.a. growth (from 5-year trend), 50% CGT discount, 39% MTR
5-Year Hold
10-Year Hold
Investor Quick Summary
Entry cost (stamp duty)
$73,140
After-tax yield
2.56%
Weekly holding cost
$667/wk
10yr CGT (est.)
$304,838
Estimates based on FY2025 NSW rates at median house price. Assumes 80% LVR, 6.5% interest rate, 39% marginal tax rate ($135K-$190K bracket). Individual circumstances vary. This is general information only and not personal financial advice. Consult your CPA before making investment decisions. Local Knowledge Pty Ltd — Registered Tax Agent.
Demographics
2,800
24
$35K
per annum
25.0%
45.0%
65.0%
8.5%
48.0%
Dwelling Mix
Lifestyle & Community
8
4
2
3.0 km
Nearest Station: Redfern Station
University-focused lifestyle with access to academic facilities, cultural events, and proximity to vibrant neighboring precincts
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Data sourced from multiple sources. Last updated 27 March 2026.