Sutherland Shire, a key local government area in Southern Sydney, boasts a population of 217,880 residents as recorded in the 2016 census. The demographic distribution reveals a balanced community, with 48.8% of the population identifying as male and 51.2% as female. Indigenous Australians account for 1.1% of the total population. The median age of residents is 40 years, indicating a relatively mature population, with children aged 0 to 14 years comprising 19.1% and seniors aged 65 and over representing 16.9%.

Marriage and family structures are notable in the area, with 53.7% of individuals aged 15 and older being married, while 10.4% are either separated or divorced. This demographic stability is reflected in the median weekly income of Sutherland Shire residents, which exceeds the national average.

Culturally, Sutherland Shire is characterized by a rich tapestry of ancestries. The most common ancestries include English (27.6%), Australian (26.3%), Irish (9.5%), Scottish (6.9%), and Italian (3.2%). Additionally, language diversity is present, with Greek, Arabic, Cantonese, and Mandarin being the most spoken languages after English.

Housing statistics reveal that among occupied private dwellings, 4.6% consist of one bedroom, while 21.1% have two bedrooms, and 35.5% feature three bedrooms, resulting in an average of 3.2 bedrooms per dwelling. The average household size in the Shire is 2.7 people, showcasing a blend of family dynamics.

Historical census data highlights demographic trends over the years. From 2001 to 2016, Sutherland Shire's population has shown a steady growth trajectory, though its percentage of both the New South Wales and Australian populations has gradually declined.

Religious affiliation also plays a role in the community, with the largest groups being Catholic (29.2%), Anglican (20.7%), and a growing proportion of residents identifying as having no religion, which has risen to 24.1%.

Overall, Sutherland Shire's demographics reflect a diverse and evolving community that combines rich cultural heritage with contemporary living standards, making it a unique and vibrant part of Sydney.