Overall score
Balnarring
41.4/100
Balnarring Beach
39.5/100
Balnarring for investment and value; Balnarring Beach for families and beach lifestyle.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Balnarring
41.4/100
Balnarring Beach
39.5/100
Crime rate
Balnarring
45.5 / 1k
Balnarring Beach
49.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balnarring
15
Balnarring Beach
9
Population
Balnarring
2,371
Balnarring Beach
471
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 | Balnarring | Balnarring Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 41.4/100 | 39.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 14.5/100 | 9.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 45.5 / 1k | 49.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 1 | 1 |
| Parks & reserves | 9 | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 5 | — |
| Walkability | 7.5/100 | 0.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 15 | 9 |
| Planning activity | 68 | 26 |
| Population | 2,371 | 471 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Balnarring is a well-connected metro smaller community with a familiar suburban feel, while Balnarring Beach is a beachside smaller community where the coast sets the tone. Balnarring Beach leans into coastal living, while Balnarring feels more inland and suburban in character.
Balnarring tends to lead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, while Balnarring Beach stands out for a calmer planning outlook.
Balnarring suits retirees and investors more clearly, whereas Balnarring Beach is the stronger match for people chasing a beach lifestyle.