Overall score
Adelaide
64.7/100
Pakenham
74.1/100
Pakenham for investment and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Adelaide
64.7/100
Pakenham
74.1/100
Crime rate
Adelaide
377.8 / 1k
Pakenham
84.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Adelaide
4,804
Pakenham
455
Population
Adelaide
18,202
Pakenham
54,118
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | Adelaide | Pakenham |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 64.7/100 | 74.1/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.1/100 | 81.2/100 |
| Crime rate | 377.8 / 1k | 84.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 10 | 4 |
| Parks & reserves | — | 24 |
| Public transport stops | 274 | 258 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 4,804 | 455 |
| Planning activity | 341 | 494 |
| Population | 18,202 | 54,118 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 4/10 |
Across states, Adelaide is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, whereas Pakenham is a well-serviced metro larger suburb with plenty happening nearby. Adelaide sits closer to the city centre, whereas Pakenham is in a middle-ring position.
Adelaide tends to lead on schools and education options and public transport access, while Pakenham stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile. On housing, Adelaide sits in a expensive band, compared with a well priced feel in Pakenham.
On balance, investors and value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Pakenham, while Adelaide remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.