Overall score
Balmain
68.1/100
Leichhardt
70.0/100
Balmain vs Leichhardt, NSW suburb comparison
Balmain for retirees and families; Leichhardt for value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalmainLeichhardt
Crime rate
Balmain
60.4 / 1k
Leichhardt
51.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balmain
274
Leichhardt
301
Population
Balmain
10,454
Leichhardt
15,158
Metric leadBalmain 0Leichhardt 92 tiedacross 11 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesBalmain
- Best for familiesBalmain
- Best for best valueLeichhardt
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 | Leichhardt |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.1/100 | 70.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.6/100 | 15.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 60.4 / 1k | 51.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 25 |
| Parks & reserves | 13 | 19 |
| Public transport stops | 51 | 98 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 274 | 301 |
| Planning activity | 100 | 68 |
| Population | 10,454 | 15,158 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Balmain reads as a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby; Leichhardt is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Balmain tends to lead on a busy dining and café scene and excellent public transport, while Leichhardt stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Choose Balmain if you are weighing retirees; lean toward Leichhardt for value-focused buyers and households prioritising schools.