Overall score
Adelaide
64.7/100
Mount Barker
60.9/100
Adelaide vs Mount Barker, SA suburb comparison
Mount Barker for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
AdelaideMount Barker
Crime rate
Adelaide
377.8 / 1k
Mount Barker
29.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Adelaide
4,804
Mount Barker
250
Population
Adelaide
18,202
Mount Barker
18,330
Metric leadAdelaide 7Mount Barker 3across 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesMount Barker
- Best for investmentMount Barker
- Best for best valueMount Barker
Audience fit
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
All metrics
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Full comparison table
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | Adelaide | Mount Barker |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 64.7/100 | 60.9/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.1/100 | 47.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 377.8 / 1k | 29.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 10 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | 274 | 64 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 80.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 4,804 | 250 |
| Planning activity | 341 | 453 |
| Population | 18,202 | 18,330 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Comparison summary
Adelaide is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Mount Barker is a leafier hillside established suburb with elevated outlooks. Mount Barker sits among greener hillside streets, while Adelaide keeps a flatter suburban layout.
Adelaide tends to lead on schools and education options and public transport access, while Mount Barker stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and investors are more likely to prefer Mount Barker, while Adelaide remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.