Overall score
Balcolyn
29.6/100
Bonnells Bay
51.8/100
Balcolyn vs Bonnells Bay, NSW suburb comparison
Bonnells Bay for investment and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalcolynBonnells Bay
Crime rate
Balcolyn
76.0 / 1k
Bonnells Bay
76.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balcolyn
17
Bonnells Bay
49
Population
Balcolyn
1,002
Bonnells Bay
4,066
Metric leadBalcolyn 2Bonnells Bay 71 tiedacross 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for investmentBonnells Bay
- Best for best valueBonnells Bay
- Best for best schoolsBonnells Bay
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 | Balcolyn | Bonnells Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 29.6/100 | 51.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 42.1/100 | 51.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 76.0 / 1k | 76.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | — | 3 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 2 |
| Public transport stops | 15 | 62 |
| Walkability | 22.5/100 | 76.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 17 | 49 |
| Planning activity | 6 | 20 |
| Population | 1,002 | 4,066 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 3/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Balcolyn is a settled metro smaller community that keeps everyday living grounded and accessible, and Bonnells Bay is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby. Balcolyn sits further out with more breathing room, whereas Bonnells Bay is in a middle-ring position.
Balcolyn tends to lead on a calmer planning outlook, while Bonnells Bay stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile. On housing, Balcolyn sits in a affordable band, compared with a expensive feel in Bonnells Bay.
Balcolyn suits families more clearly, whereas Bonnells Bay is the stronger match for investors and value-focused buyers.