Ashfield sits out the outskirts of the inner west, conveniently within access of the M4 that leads to the western suburbs and Parramatta Rd that leads through the inner west to the Sydney CBD.
Ashfield has a significant commercial area built around the main street of Liverpool Road near the location of the Ashfield train station, and the area is crowded with commercial and business activity.
This is one of the Sydney metro area’s most diverse places. This diversity is reflected in the food and language which you will experience as you walk through the suburb; in particular, roughly one fifth of the population is able to speak a Chinese language.
The cultural diversity is a cause for celebration in the eyes of local residents and the council, which coordinates several activities around the communities including the Carnival of Cultures, the yearly event to allow expression of cultural heritage that is held in the Ashfield Park and includes performances, speeches and food stalls (food is very important at the Ashfield).
The area is also home to several churches, including the church which houses the Ashfield Parish Mission, where the Exodus Foundation whose good work is coordinated by Rev Bill Crews, in helping those who are in need of food and assistance in the Sydney metro area. There are also churches of other sects throughout the area, as the area’s inhabitants are rather spiritual.
The area is not short of parks of which residents can take advantage, for those who are interested in getting out onto the field of a weekend. Surrounding areas are also loaded with other parks, golf courses, and further towards Canada Bay to the north and Marrickville to the South some of the parklands are on the shore of the Sydney water network. Ashfield is proximate to other suburbs such as Leichhardt and Concord, so there is no excuse for getting bored.
Demographics
In terms of diversity, around 40% of residents of Ashfield were born in Australia, while the other major demographics are Indian and Chinese immigrant cultures. The median age of Ashfield is 35 which is 2 below the national average. In terms of income the median individual income is $574.00 per week while the median household income is $1314.00 per week.
Households and Property
In terms of household make up, around 45% of residents of Ashfield are married, and there is a significant number of families in the area. One quarter of homes are fully owned, while around 45% of homes are rented. Roughly 63% of residents live in apartments, which is well above the national average of 14%. Median rent in the Ashfield area is $365.
Transport
Ashfield is well connected to the Sydney transport network, with Parramatta Rd within a short driving distance, and a train line on which it is situated that travels between Parramatta and Sydney CBD. Driving is also a reasonable option although the closer a particular street comes to Liverpool Road, the less likely it is to have completely free on street parking (so beware). Buses also run along Liverpool Road and Parramatta Road into the Sydney CBD.