Overall score
Alphington
57.5/100
Preston
71.2/100
Alphington vs Preston, VIC suburb comparison
Alphington for retirees and investment; Preston for families and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
AlphingtonPreston
Crime rate
Alphington
63.7 / 1k
Preston
167.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Alphington
205
Preston
1,170
Population
Alphington
5,702
Preston
33,790
Metric leadAlphington 3Preston 8across 11 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesAlphington
- Best for familiesPreston
- Best for investmentAlphington
- Best for best valuePreston
- Best for best schoolsPreston
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 | Alphington | Preston |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 57.5/100 | 71.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 19.1/100 | 23.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 63.7 / 1k | 167.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 14 |
| Parks & reserves | 7 | 26 |
| Public transport stops | 37 | 234 |
| Walkability | 44.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 205 | 1,170 |
| Planning activity | 102 | 458 |
| Population | 5,702 | 33,790 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 8/10 |
Comparison summary
Alphington reads as a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby; Preston is a lively metro larger suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Alphington is stronger for a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook; Preston answers with housing affordability and schools and education options.
Retirees and investors may find Alphington the better fit, while families and value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Preston.