Overall score
Ardeer
46.4/100
Cairnlea
60.8/100
Ardeer vs Cairnlea, VIC suburb comparison
Ardeer for investment and schools; Cairnlea for retirees and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
ArdeerCairnlea
Crime rate
Ardeer
106.3 / 1k
Cairnlea
47.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Ardeer
38
Cairnlea
133
Population
Ardeer
3,170
Cairnlea
10,038
Metric leadArdeer 2Cairnlea 9across 11 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
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 | Ardeer | Cairnlea |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 46.4/100 | 60.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 61.2/100 | 56.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 106.3 / 1k | 47.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 7 | 4 |
| Parks & reserves | 3 | 12 |
| Public transport stops | 13 | 27 |
| Walkability | 19.5/100 | 92.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 38 | 133 |
| Planning activity | 20 | 1 |
| Population | 3,170 | 10,038 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 2/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Ardeer reads as a practical metro mid-sized suburb with approachable housing and suburban calm; Cairnlea is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Ardeer tends to lead on housing affordability and schools and education options, while Cairnlea stands out for a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves. Ardeer generally means more approachable housing costs, while Cairnlea leans toward more mid-market housing value.
Choose Ardeer if you are weighing investors and households prioritising schools; lean toward Cairnlea for retirees and value-focused buyers.