Overall score
Athol Park
43.7/100
Cheltenham
41.6/100
Athol Park vs Cheltenham, SA suburb comparison
Cheltenham for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Athol ParkCheltenham
Crime rate
Athol Park
65.6 / 1k
Cheltenham
36.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Athol Park
102
Cheltenham
92
Population
Athol Park
2,023
Cheltenham
2,236
Metric leadAthol Park 5Cheltenham 4across 9 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesCheltenham
- Best for familiesCheltenham
- Best for investmentCheltenham
- Best for best schoolsCheltenham
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 | Athol Park | Cheltenham |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 43.7/100 | 41.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 56.2/100 | 56.5/100 |
| Crime rate | 65.6 / 1k | 36.6 / 1k |
| Public transport stops | 16 | 12 |
| Walkability | 59.0/100 | 18.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 102 | 92 |
| Planning activity | 16 | 26 |
| Population | 2,023 | 2,236 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 2/10 | 5/10 |
Comparison summary
Athol Park is a lively metro smaller community with dining and everyday convenience close by, while Cheltenham is a well-serviced metro smaller community with plenty happening nearby.
Athol Park pulls ahead on public transport access and walkability, whereas Cheltenham is the better pick for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile. Athol Park generally means more approachable housing costs, while Cheltenham leans toward more sought-after housing.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Cheltenham, while Athol Park remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.