Bondi and Potts Point are two of Sydney’s most iconic waterfront suburbs, and when it comes to lifestyle, it can be hard to separate the two.
Beach or harbourside? The choice is yours.
Geographically, both are relatively small areas with a high-density population. This translates into two of the most cosmopolitan suburbs in Sydney, which are both nightlife and entertainment destinations in their own right.
For owner-occupiers and investors, all types of property in these two suburbs are highly sought after.
First home buyers and downsizers increasingly compete for property in both these areas. There’s also a lot of crossover with many buyers and renters moving between the two suburbs. And I find that many buyers are looking for property in both locations, before making a decision on which lifestyle to pursue.
Let’s take a look at each suburb separately, and what they can offer in terms of location and lifestyle.
Bondi
Bondi Beach is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Australia. It is arguably Sydney’s most popular beach, with its pristine sands, world-class surf and the famous Bondi to Bronte walk capturing the imagination of people around the globe.
If you’re anything like me, when I’m not working I’m out catching waves. But you don’t have to be in the surf every day to enjoy Bondi’s diverse lifestyle—this beach-side town has a little something for everyone.
Whether you’re browsing for fresh produce at Bondi’s local markets or shopping at the boutiques, eating at the local vegan burger joint or dining at Icebergs with a glass of wine overlooking the ocean—Bondi has everyone covered.
For the majority of people living in Bondi, apartments and units are the most popular option. In Bondi, you’ll find cutting edge modern apartments like the Pacific right next door to lovely character-filled art-deco era blocks. Take a look at this beautiful boutique art-deco apartment in North Bondi that we recently sold.
Potts Point
From its naval beginnings, bohemian past, and proximity to the famous Kings Cross, every building, home, corner and side street in Potts Point holds a little bit of history and mystery that gives the area its unique charm. The fascinating local stories are one of the reasons I love working in this area.
Nestled between Woolloomooloo and Elizabeth Bay, Potts Point is a small but densely populated area—no more than 0.8km2—making it one of Sydney’s most walkable suburbs. Walking along Macleay Street, you’ll find dozens of small shops, popular cafes and restaurants, bars, art galleries, and delis. You can also wander into the city, Botanic Gardens, and enjoy everything that harbourside living has to offer.
The Potts Point community has a wide-ranging urban demographic. Its proximity to the CBD and evening hotspots attracts many younger working professionals. In recent years it’s also become popular with downsizers who are looking for a change in lifestyle, moving into a modern apartment like the Ikon building with gym facilities, underground parking and stunning harbour views.
Compare and contrast: Bondi Beach vs Potts Point
There’s a very good reason that Bondi and Potts Point are both popular with overseas tourists and backpackers. When it comes to location and lifestyle, you don’t get much better than Bondi or Potts Point. Both suburbs are home to hotels, bars, cafes, theatres, book shops and art galleries that create an eclectic, creative, international vibe.
There are many similarities between the suburbs, but also some key differences – not simply the beach or the city views.
Potts Point is home to 9,400 people, and Bondi Beach 11,600. If you count the area known as Bondi the beaches also cover a far larger area, and take in more people.
According to the last Census the median age in Potts Point was 32, and in Bondi Beach it was similar at 33. Interestingly, Bondi Beach’s population was split down the middle with 50% female and 50% male, while Potts Point is a little uneven, with 60% of the population being male.
There are roughly twice as many families in Bondi, compared to Potts Point. And in Potts Point children under 14 years make up just 2% of the population, while in Bondi Beach it’s a far greater percentage, at 11%.
In Bondi, 84% of properties are flats or apartments, and in Potts Point the figure is ever so slightly higher, at 88%. This means you’ll pay a premium for any houses or terraces in both suburbs.
No matter which area you decide to choose, contact my team for advice.
