Overall score
Balwyn
66.3/100
Kew East
70.0/100
Balwyn vs Kew East, VIC suburb comparison
Kew East for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalwynKew East
Crime rate
Balwyn
55.4 / 1k
Kew East
46.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balwyn
394
Kew East
314
Population
Balwyn
13,495
Kew East
6,620
Metric leadBalwyn 6Kew East 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 | Balwyn | Kew East |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 66.3/100 | 70.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 7.7/100 | 25.5/100 |
| Crime rate | 55.4 / 1k | 46.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 14 | 7 |
| Parks & reserves | 8 | 5 |
| Public transport stops | 47 | 42 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 92.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 394 | 314 |
| Planning activity | 119 | 82 |
| Population | 13,495 | 6,620 |
| 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 Kew East is an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Balwyn sits in a middle-ring position, whereas Kew East is closer to the city centre.
On the data, Balwyn is stronger for schools and education options and parks and reserves; Kew East answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Kew East, while Balwyn remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.