Ballina vs Lennox Head, NSW suburb comparison
Which suburb suits you better?
Side-by-side comparison of 16 categories from official government and open data.
| Category | Ballina | Lennox Head |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 53.0/100 | 61.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 51.2/100 | 50.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 93.8 / 1k | 93.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 6 | 1 |
| Parks & reserves | 14 | 7 |
| Public transport stops | 318 | 96 |
| Walkability | 61.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 40 | 256 |
| Planning activity | 29 | 48 |
| Population | 9,735 | 7,687 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 3/10 | 10/10 |
Quick verdicts
- Best for retireesLennox Head
- Best for beach lifestyleLennox Head
- Best for best valueLennox Head
- Best for best schoolsLennox Head
Comparison summary
Ballina reads as a regional hub with its own identity and everyday convenience; Lennox Head is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone. Where Lennox Head is shaped by the coast, Ballina offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
Ballina pulls ahead on housing affordability and schools and education options, whereas Lennox Head is the better pick for walkability and nearby cafés and amenities. Ballina generally means more approachable housing costs, while Lennox Head leans toward more sought-after housing.
On balance, retirees and people chasing a beach lifestyle are more likely to prefer Lennox Head, while Ballina remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.