Overall score
Ballina
52.3/100
Lismore
65.6/100
Ballina vs Lismore, NSW suburb comparison
Ballina for investment; Lismore for families and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BallinaLismore
Crime rate
Ballina
89.8 / 1k
Lismore
101.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Ballina
40
Lismore
338
Population
Ballina
9,735
Lismore
3,656
Metric leadBallina 5Lismore 6across 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 | Ballina | Lismore |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 52.3/100 | 65.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 51.2/100 | 68.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 89.8 / 1k | 101.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 1 | 8 |
| Parks & reserves | 14 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 318 | 173 |
| Walkability | 61.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 40 | 338 |
| Planning activity | 35 | 19 |
| Population | 9,735 | 3,656 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 3/10 | 1/10 |
Comparison summary
Ballina reads as a regional hub with its own identity and everyday convenience; Lismore is a regional hub with its own identity and everyday convenience.
On the data, Ballina is stronger for a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves; Lismore answers with housing affordability and walkability.
Ballina suits investors and households prioritising schools more clearly, whereas Lismore is the stronger match for retirees and families.