Overall score
Annandale
59.0/100
Balmain East
48.3/100
Annandale vs Balmain East, NSW suburb comparison
Annandale for value; Balmain East for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
AnnandaleBalmain East
Crime rate
Annandale
46.6 / 1k
Balmain East
60.2 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Annandale
234
Balmain East
95
Population
Annandale
9,487
Balmain East
1,900
Metric leadAnnandale 8Balmain East 21 tiedacross 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 retireesBalmain East
- Best for familiesBalmain East
- Best for investmentBalmain East
- Best for best valueAnnandale
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 | Annandale | Balmain East |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 59.0/100 | 48.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 11.6/100 | 5.9/100 |
| Crime rate | 46.6 / 1k | 60.2 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 23 | 8 |
| Parks & reserves | 8 | 10 |
| Public transport stops | 41 | 12 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 45.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 234 | 95 |
| Planning activity | 91 | 14 |
| Population | 9,487 | 1,900 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Annandale is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap, and Balmain East is an energetic metro smaller community where cafés and local life overlap.
Annandale tends to lead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, while Balmain East stands out for parks and reserves and a calmer planning outlook.
Choose Annandale if you are weighing value-focused buyers and households prioritising schools; lean toward Balmain East for retirees and investors.