Sydney vs Melbourne - City Size Comparison

Is Sydney Bigger Than Melbourne?

In terms of area, Sydney is 1.2x the size of Melbourne. Sydney spans 12,368 km² (4,775 mi²) while Melbourne covers 9,993 km² (3,858 mi²) — a difference of 2,375 km².

About Sydney

Australia's largest city, known for the Opera House. Known as "The Harbour City", Sydney covers 12,368 km² with a population of 5.3 million. The city was established in 1788. Sydney is known for Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Sydney Trains.

Sydney's administrative area is so large it stretches from the coast to the Blue Mountains foothills

About Melbourne

Australia's cultural capital and second-largest city. Also known as "The Garden City", Melbourne has an area of 9,993 km² and is home to 5.1 million people. It was established in 1835. Visitors come for Street art laneways, Coffee culture, Melbourne Cup, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Melbourne Trams & Metro.

Melbourne has the world's largest tram network outside of Europe

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Sydney metropolitan area covers 12,368 km², which is 1.2x larger than greater Melbourne at 9,993 km². The Sydney metro area is also more populous, with 5.3 million people compared to 5.1 million.

Population Density

Sydney has a population density of 429 people per km² — a low-density, sprawling urban area. Melbourne, with 508 people per km², is a relatively spread-out city. Both cities have comparable density, though Melbourne is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Sydney has a humid subtropical climate while Melbourne experiences oceanic conditions.