Overall score
Balmain East
48.3/100
Lilyfield
57.6/100
Balmain East vs Lilyfield, NSW suburb comparison
Lilyfield for families and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Balmain EastLilyfield
Crime rate
Balmain East
60.2 / 1k
Lilyfield
51.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balmain East
95
Lilyfield
142
Population
Balmain East
1,900
Lilyfield
7,641
Metric leadBalmain East 2Lilyfield 81 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 | Balmain East | Lilyfield |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 48.3/100 | 57.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 5.9/100 | 16.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 60.2 / 1k | 51.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 15 |
| Parks & reserves | 10 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 12 | 39 |
| Walkability | 45.0/100 | 69.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 95 | 142 |
| Planning activity | 14 | 39 |
| Population | 1,900 | 7,641 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Balmain East reads as an energetic metro smaller community where cafés and local life overlap; Lilyfield is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby.
On the data, Balmain East is stronger for parks and reserves and a calmer planning outlook; Lilyfield answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Retirees and families may find Balmain East the better fit, while value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Lilyfield.