Overall score
Balmain
68.1/100
Lilyfield
57.6/100
Balmain vs Lilyfield, NSW suburb comparison
Balmain for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalmainLilyfield
Crime rate
Balmain
60.4 / 1k
Lilyfield
51.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balmain
274
Lilyfield
142
Population
Balmain
10,454
Lilyfield
7,641
Metric leadBalmain 6Lilyfield 41 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 | Lilyfield |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.1/100 | 57.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.6/100 | 16.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 60.4 / 1k | 51.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 15 |
| Parks & reserves | 13 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 51 | 39 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 69.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 274 | 142 |
| Planning activity | 100 | 39 |
| Population | 10,454 | 7,641 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Balmain is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Lilyfield is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Balmain pulls ahead on parks and reserves and public transport access, whereas Lilyfield is the better pick for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Balmain, while Lilyfield remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.