Skip to main content
BestSchools
Account

New South Wales location profile

Hornsby NSW 2077

Hornsby is a major Upper North Shore hub combining a busy commercial centre with leafy residential streets and bushland at the doorstep. It appeals to families and professionals for its transport links, shopping, schools and access to national park trails.

Explore schools in Hornsby

Compare local schools using the BestSchools list and interactive map.

Compare schools

Why families consider Hornsby

Diverse and family-friendly, with a mix of apartments around the station and established houses toward the bushland fringes. Strong professional and student presence, notable multicultural (especially East and South Asian) communities, and a commuter lifestyle balanced by outdoor recreation.

Amenities & services

  • Westfield Hornsby shopping centre and Florence Street Mall
  • Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital (nearby) and local medical clinics
  • Cafes and restaurants along Florence St, Pacific Hwy and within Westfield
  • Hornsby Library, 28–44 Hunter Street, Hornsby

Transport & connectivity

  • Hornsby railway station (T1 North Shore Line, T9 Northern Line, Central Coast & Newcastle intercity services)
  • Bus routes to Macquarie University, Castle Hill, Berowra, Parramatta and local suburbs
  • Pacific Highway (A1), M1 Pacific Motorway, Pennant Hills Road (A28)

Lifestyle & recreation

  • Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre
  • Hornsby Park and Old Mans Valley mountain bike trails
  • Storey Park playground and community centre
  • Hornsby RSL Club events and live entertainment
  • Lisgar Gardens
  • Hornsby Park (Old Mans Valley)
  • Blue Gum Walk / Hornsby Heritage Steps (access to Berowra Valley National Park)
  • Storey Park

Education context

Multiple long day care and preschool options in and around Hornsby; generally good availability with some infant waitlists during peak periods.

  • Macquarie University (Macquarie Park) via train to Epping then Metro or direct bus
  • University of Technology Sydney (Ultimo) via train to Central
  • University of Sydney (Camperdown/Darlington) via train to Redfern or Central then bus/walk