Overall score
Balmain
68.1/100
Rozelle
59.7/100
Balmain for families and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Balmain
68.1/100
Rozelle
59.7/100
Crime rate
Balmain
60.4 / 1k
Rozelle
55.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balmain
274
Rozelle
219
Population
Balmain
10,454
Rozelle
8,553
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | Balmain | Rozelle |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.1/100 | 59.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.6/100 | 14.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 60.4 / 1k | 55.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 11 |
| Parks & reserves | 13 | 8 |
| Public transport stops | 51 | 51 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 85.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 274 | 219 |
| Planning activity | 100 | 58 |
| Population | 10,454 | 8,553 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Put side by side, Balmain is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Rozelle is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Balmain is stronger for schools and education options and parks and reserves; Rozelle answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, families and investors are more likely to prefer Balmain, while Rozelle remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.