When it comes to the poorest suburb in Sydney, there isn’t just one — but rather a cluster of suburbs that consistently rank lower in income, employment, and education.
In 2025, data from the ABS shows that Fairfield continues to record the lowest median household income in Sydney at $1,390 per week, well below the Sydney average of over $2,200. Suburbs like Carramar, Cabramatta, and Campsie follow closely, each facing different socio-economic challenges.
That said, the term “poorest” doesn’t tell the whole story. Many of these suburbs offer strong community ties, cultural diversity, affordable homes, and great food scenes — proving that low income doesn’t mean low quality of life.
In this article, we break down what makes these suburbs statistically disadvantaged, what they still offer residents, and how they compare across housing prices, amenities, and future potential.
Fairfield
- Median House Price: $940,000
- Median Unit Price: $460,000
- Median Weekly Household Income: $1,390
- Unemployment Rate: 8.7%
- Median Rent: $520/week
Fairfield continues to rank as the poorest suburb in Sydney based on weekly income levels. As of 2025, households earn a median of $1,390 per week — well below the Sydney metro average of over $2,200. The unemployment rate also remains higher than average, contributing to financial disadvantage.
But Fairfield is far more than just numbers. It’s one of Sydney’s most walkable suburbs, rich with multicultural influences, especially from Vietnamese and Middle Eastern communities.
Local favourites like Brenta’s Meats and Cardone’s Supermarket give the area a village feel, while Fairfield Park offers green space and local sport.
Despite the economic challenges, Fairfield’s affordability, cultural diversity, and proximity to public transport continue to make it appealing — especially for first-home buyers and renters priced out of Sydney’s inner suburbs.
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Carramar
Median House Price: $872,500
Median Unit Price: $345,000
Median Weekly Household Income: $1,360
Unemployment Rate: 9.1%
Median Rent: $500/week
Carramar sits quietly in Sydney’s west, but its income levels place it among the poorest suburbs in Sydney. As of 2025, the median household income is just $1,360 per week, with unemployment still above 9% — almost double the Sydney average.
Yet Carramar has a reputation for being safe, community-focused, and relatively peaceful. Families are drawn to its modest home prices and low-density feel. It’s one of the few Sydney suburbs where you can still find units under $400,000, just 30 kilometres from the CBD.
With access to parks, playgrounds, cycleways, and local shops all within walking distance, Carramar offers quiet value — particularly for those looking to enter the property market on a budget.
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Cabramatta
- Median House Price: $1,056,000
- Median Unit Price: $430,000
- Median Weekly Household Income: $1,509
- Unemployment Rate: 7.9%
- Median Rent: $530/week
Cabramatta is one of Sydney’s most culturally vibrant suburbs — and one of the most affordable in its region. In 2025, the median weekly household income sits at $1,509, placing it well below the city average and ranking it among the poorest suburbs in Sydney by income.
What Cabramatta lacks in income statistics, it makes up for in energy. Nicknamed Little Vietnam, it’s a hotspot for food lovers and families who value walkable streets, strong local business, and community spirit.
The area has seen a significant drop in crime over the last decade, and the housing mix includes everything from three-storey walk-ups to spacious detached homes and renovated weatherboard cottages.
Cabramatta’s accessibility, train line, and affordability continue to attract migrants, first-home buyers, and budget-conscious investors.
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Campsie
- Median House Price: $1,481,000
- Median Unit Price: $610,000
- Median Weekly Household Income: $1,491
- Unemployment Rate: 8.1%
- Median Rent: $580/week
Despite being located just 13 km from the CBD, Campsie continues to sit below the Sydney income average, with a median weekly household income of $1,491 in 2025. The suburb also has one of the highest unemployment rates in the Inner West at 8.1%, placing it on the list of poorer suburbs in Sydney by socio-economic indicators.
That said, Campsie has long punched above its weight in lifestyle offerings. It’s multicultural, well-connected by train, and packed with eateries serving everything from Korean BBQ to Chinese seafood hotpot.
While home prices have surged over the years, Campsie still offers relative value for its location — particularly in units and small semis. It’s a go-to for families wanting proximity to the city without the eastern suburbs’ price tag.
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FAQs on the Poorest Suburb in Sydney
What is the poorest suburb in Sydney in 2025?
Fairfield remains the poorest suburb in Sydney based on income data, with a median household income of $1,390 per week, well below the city average. Carramar, Cabramatta, and Campsie also rank among the lowest-income areas.
Are these suburbs unsafe?
Not necessarily. While some of these areas have higher crime rates, many have seen significant improvements over the past decade. Most residents live peacefully and enjoy access to parks, schools, shops, and public transport.
Can you still buy cheap homes in these suburbs?
Yes — especially if you’re looking for a unit under $500k. Carramar and Fairfield still have relatively affordable homes compared to the broader Sydney market.
Why are these suburbs considered disadvantaged?
These suburbs tend to have higher unemployment rates, lower average incomes, and more public housing. However, they also offer strong communities, rich cultural diversity, and access to essential amenities.