Chatswood has long been known as one of Sydney’s most diverse and welcoming suburbs. With more than 65% of residents born overseas and over two-thirds speaking a language other than English at home, it’s a place where cultures blend seamlessly – and the variety is reflected everywhere you look.
For many newcomers, Chatswood offers a sense of familiarity and comfort. When Henny Stier’s family migrated from Indonesia in 1989, they chose Chatswood for that very reason. “My parents felt at home straight away – they could shop for groceries and run errands without speaking much English,” she recalls.
Although the family later moved to a larger home, they eventually returned to Chatswood. For Henny’s elderly parents, the convenience was unbeatable. “My dad’s 85 and doesn’t drive, but he doesn’t need to – everything is right on your doorstep. If my mum runs out of ingredients, she just sends him downstairs to pick them up,” she says.
It’s easy to see why. Chatswood’s streets are lined with Asian grocers, specialty food stores, and clinics offering traditional therapies. You can find Korean kimchi, Persian spices, Malaysian snacks, Japanese teas, and so much more – all within a short walk. The dining scene is equally impressive; you could easily eat a different cuisine every day for a year.
Most residents live in apartments, which make up nearly 70% of local housing. Many of these are within walking distance of the bustling transport hub, offering metro, train, and bus connections across Sydney. While apartments come with a median price tag of around $1.1 million, growth has been modest compared to house prices, which have surged more than 40% in the past five years.
Local Favourites
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Best eats: Zilver, a Cantonese favourite atop Westfield Chatswood, known for its fresh seafood and popular yum cha. It’s spacious enough for big gatherings and even has private dining rooms.
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Shopping highlight: Victoria Avenue is a retail paradise, home to Chatswood Chase, Westfield, boutique stores, and lively markets every Thursday to Saturday.
Market Insights
Local real estate agent Andy Yeung says recent state government rezoning has sparked strong interest from homeowners exploring sales to developers. With demand high and plenty of new apartment developments in nearby areas like St Leonards and North Sydney, buyers have more choice than ever – but the convenience, diversity, and energy of Chatswood keep it in high demand.
