Overall score
Balgowlah
63.4/100
Manly
71.3/100
Balgowlah vs Manly, NSW suburb comparison
Balgowlah for investment; Manly for families and beach lifestyle.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalgowlahManly
Crime rate
Balgowlah
24.1 / 1k
Manly
76.2 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balgowlah
218
Manly
782
Population
Balgowlah
8,068
Manly
16,296
Metric leadBalgowlah 4Manly 52 tiedacross 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 | Balgowlah | Manly |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 63.4/100 | 71.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 23.6/100 | 21.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 24.1 / 1k | 76.2 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 10 | 4 |
| Parks & reserves | 3 | 12 |
| Public transport stops | 103 | 128 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 218 | 782 |
| Planning activity | 19 | 71 |
| Population | 8,068 | 16,296 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Balgowlah reads as an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap; Manly is a beachside established suburb where the coast sets the tone. Manly leans into coastal living, while Balgowlah feels more inland and suburban in character.
On the data, Balgowlah is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Manly answers with schools and education options and parks and reserves.
Retirees and investors may find Balgowlah the better fit, while families and people chasing a beach lifestyle are more likely to prefer Manly.