Northern Sydney

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Northern Sydney is one of the most sought-after regions in Sydney, celebrated for its unique combination of natural beauty, premier lifestyle, and convenient access to the CBD. With stunning harbourside vistas, lush green spaces, and thriving local communities, it’s a region that balances modern sophistication with a serene environment. Whether you’re seeking prestigious homes, top-tier education, or vibrant cultural experiences, Northern Sydney offers a lifestyle unlike any other.

4 Key Features:

1. Breathtaking Natural Landscapes

Northern Sydney is home to some of Sydney’s most scenic spots, including the sparkling waters of Middle Harbour, the bushland of Lane Cove National Park, and the tranquil beaches of Mosman. These landscapes provide a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Exceptional Connectivity

With excellent transport links, Northern Sydney offers seamless access to the Sydney CBD and beyond. Major motorways, train lines, and ferry services connect the region, making it a convenient choice for professionals and families alike.

3. Education and Innovation

Renowned for its top-tier schools and universities, Northern Sydney attracts families seeking quality education. Macquarie University, a leading institution, adds a vibrant academic and research hub to the area.

4. Upscale Lifestyle

From boutique shopping in Mosman to fine dining in Crows Nest, Northern Sydney exudes sophistication. Its blend of luxury real estate and thriving local communities makes it an attractive destination for those seeking the finer things in life.

Development in Northern Sydney gained momentum well after the initial settlement around Circular Quay in The Inner City. The area that became the suburb of North Sydney (then known as St. Leonards) was primarily bushland and sparsely populated in the early 1800s. After the introduction of regular ferry services in the mid-1800s, North Sydney started to emerge as a small commercial center, providing services to the growing population north of the harbour. By the mid-20th century, Northern Sydney became known for its higher living standards, with leafy suburbs, well-regarded schools, and a reputation as a more affluent part of the city. Areas like Mosman and Hunters Hill became highly sought-after residential locations.

In the late 20th century, Macquarie Park emerged as a technology and business hub, driving employment and economic growth in Northern Sydney. It’s now one of the largest commercial precincts in Sydney, housing multinational corporations, research institutions, and a major university (Macquarie University).

The four CBDs in Northern Sydney (North Sydney, Chatswood, Macquarie Park, and St Leonards) all serve as significant employment centers, hosting a range of industries from corporate offices in finance and technology, to retail and healthcare. These CBDs are not solely focused on business; they also provide a wide range of cultural, dining, and retail options. Chatswood, in particular, is known for its many shopping centers and multicultural food scene, while North Sydney and St Leonards offer more corporate dining and leisure options. These CBDs also feature substantial residential development, offering high-density housing close to workplaces. This makes them desirable areas for professionals seeking a work-life balance with shorter commutes.

[these photos show residential high-rises near the station]

Across all four CBDs, accommodation options reflect a trend toward high-density urban living, catering to professionals, students, and higher-income individuals. Most of the housing developments are apartment-style, with a focus on convenience, modern amenities, and proximity to transport hubs, business districts, and leisure facilities. These areas also increasingly offer short-term accommodation options for business travelers and students, meeting the demands of a growing, dynamic workforce.

Explore Northern Sydney

Ready to dive deeper into what Northern Sydney has to offer? Check out the following:

• Councils of Northern Sydney: Learn about the eight LGAs that shape this dynamic region.
• Northern Sydney Suburbs: Discover the unique charm of every suburb.
• Lifestyle and Attractions: From fine dining to scenic parks, uncover the best of Northern Sydney.

Northern Sydney is more than a place to live; it’s a lifestyle. Begin your journey here!

Suburbs in Northern Sydney

Home to some of Sydney’s top public and private schools, boasting excellent transport links, Northern Sydney offers a peaceful, upscale lifestyle, ideal for families, professionals, and young couples. Its mix of quiet leafy suburbs, prestigious properties, and bustling locales with cafes, restaurants, and cultural activities often attracts high-net-worth individuals seeking an outdoors lifestyle close to urban amenities. Nature lovers enjoy its parks, beaches, and walking trails, while Macquarie University draws a significant student population with affordable accommodation and ample leisure and retail options.

Learn more about Sydney’s Northern suburbs

Living across the Northern Sydney Councils / LGAs

The eight Local Government Areas (LGAs) that manage and provide essential services such as waste collection and water supply, public health and transport infrastructure, and the maintenance of libraries and parks etc. across Northern Sydney are distinct in character, catering to unique lifestyles and diverse demographics. The Northern Sydney LGAs are North Sydney Council, Mosman Municipal Council, City of Willoughby, Hunters Hill Municipality Council, Lane Cove Municipal Council, City of Ryde, and Ku-ring-gai Council. Further North lies Hornsby Shire, often considered the ‘Outer North’. While the Northern Beaches are geographically close, they are often regarded as their own region and have not been included here. Learn more about North Sydney’s Councils / LGAs →

CBDs in Northern Sydney

The four Central Business Districts across Northern Sydney play a pivotal role in shaping its identity, transforming it from predominantly residential suburbs into vibrant commercial and employment hubs. They offer more localised employment options, reducing the need for residents to commute to the Inner City, and strengthening Northern Sydney’s infrastructure, making it a highly desirable area for businesses, professionals, and families alike.

Northern Sydney plays a crucial role in this decentralised approach with its network of business districts like North Sydney, Chatswood, St Leonards, and Macquarie Park, where Chatswood is often called “Sydney’s second CBD”, with a strong retail presence, high-density residential areas, and significant commercial developments​.

Read more about Northern Sydney’s four Central Business Districts
(Tag: Northern Sydney)

Other CBDs across Sydney

As Sydney grew, it became essential to develop business hubs beyond the main CBD to accommodate the city’s expanding population and economy.

Read more about Sydney’s Other CBDs
(Tag: General Info)