Three decades ago, long-time resident Carolyn Campbell remembers moving from Coogee to Rosebery and feeling like she’d gone to the “edge of the city.” At the time, the suburb was dominated by warehouses and factories, with little in the way of cafés or community life.
Fast forward to today, and Rosebery is almost unrecognisable. Back in 2001, the population sat at just over 7,000. Now, it has nearly doubled to more than 13,500 residents, driven largely by a wave of new apartment developments that have reshaped the area.
While traffic congestion has been a downside of the suburb’s growth, Campbell says the lifestyle improvements more than make up for it. “It’s so much busier now, but we have incredible amenities right on our doorstep,” she explains. From the iconic Black Star Pastry and Gelato Messina to bakeries, artist studios, and the ever-popular Cannery precinct—with its mix of eateries, bars, and boutique shops—Rosebery has transformed into a hub for foodies, creatives, and young professionals alike.
Its central location is also a big drawcard. With quick access to the CBD, beaches, and the airport, Rosebery offers convenience that appeals to a wide mix of residents.
Housing: A Blend of Old and New
Despite its reputation for high-rise living, around half of Rosebery’s homes are still freestanding houses. Local agent Max Klimenko points out that the suburb has two distinct personalities: one side is dotted with Californian bungalows on large blocks, many still owned by long-standing Greek and Italian families, while the other showcases sleek apartments that attract a diverse, modern crowd.
Compared to nearby Surry Hills, Rosebery’s apartments are often seen as offering better value for money, with newer stock available at more accessible prices. However, Klimenko notes that price growth can be slower in high-density areas, while low-rise pockets and warehouse conversions tend to perform more strongly in the long run.
Community Favourites
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Favourite streets: Mentmore, Dunning, and Primrose Streets—just steps from The Cannery, offering cafés, restaurants, bars, and even a distillery.
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Best eats: Three Blue Ducks at The Cannery, known for fresh produce, great service, and a vibrant atmosphere.
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Suburb highlight: Parks. Almost every second or third street leads to green space, many of which are off-leash, making Rosebery a paradise for pet owners and families alike.
A Suburb on the Move
From an industrial zone to one of Sydney’s most dynamic inner-city neighbourhoods, Rosebery’s transformation shows no signs of slowing down. With its mix of heritage homes, contemporary apartments, and a buzzing food and lifestyle scene, it’s easy to see why this once-overlooked suburb has become a sought-after place to live.
