_Sydney mapped by languages spoken and how diversity is shaping the city's real estate markets

After English, the next most common languages spoken at home were Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese and Vietnamese, indicating how culturally diverse the population is and the degree to which different ethnic groups and nationalities are retaining their language.

Sydney is no different. As a Global City its multiculturalism and diversity can be illustrated through the below map. The map highlights the dominant language spoken in the suburb after English.

Long standing areas of tradition remain, for example Italians congregating in and around Leichardt, Portuguese close to the beaches around Mona Vale, Koreans in Lidcombe and Marrickville, Jews (Hebrew) in the Eastern Suburbs, Southern Asians in Blacktown and Vietnamese in Cabramatta.

However, it is clear from reviewing the 2011 Census that a number of postal areas are becoming increasing inhabited by Mandarin speakers.

Sydney’s position as a diverse Global City, and one that attracts migrants from all over the world, is very much clear in terms of inhabitants, but is also evident in its economy and employment base.

Sydney is home to 12 of the top 25 ASX-listed companies and 30 of the top 50. In addition, many of the global Fortune 500 companies have their regional or national head-offices in Sydney, including technology giants, such as Apple, IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, HP and Samsung.

Shifting demographics are transforming urban behaviours and real estate markets. Design and architecture is adjusting as a result of an influx of new and differing preferences.

Real estate markets, such as residential and retail are both adapting to this shift as a greater understanding and knowledge of changing buyer profiles emerge.

Considering this, new developments and gentrification of older assets are being planned or redesigned with more culturally diverse end users in mind.

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The cultural diversity of Sydney is reflected in its population, economy and real estate market

Source: Knight Frank Research, ABS

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