Overall score
Balwyn
66.3/100
Balwyn North
71.7/100
Balwyn vs Balwyn North, VIC suburb comparison
Balwyn North for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalwynBalwyn North
Crime rate
Balwyn
55.4 / 1k
Balwyn North
33.1 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balwyn
394
Balwyn North
706
Population
Balwyn
13,495
Balwyn North
21,302
Metric leadBalwyn 2Balwyn North 72 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 retireesBalwyn North
- Best for familiesBalwyn North
- Best for investmentBalwyn North
- Best for best valueBalwyn North
- Best for best schoolsBalwyn North
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 | Balwyn | Balwyn North |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 66.3/100 | 71.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 7.7/100 | 14.5/100 |
| Crime rate | 55.4 / 1k | 33.1 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 14 | 8 |
| Parks & reserves | 8 | 11 |
| Public transport stops | 47 | 108 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 394 | 706 |
| Planning activity | 119 | 158 |
| Population | 13,495 | 21,302 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Balwyn is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, and Balwyn North is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Balwyn pulls ahead on schools and education options and a calmer planning outlook, whereas Balwyn North is the better pick for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Balwyn North, while Balwyn remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.