Overall score
Balwyn
66.3/100
Kew
69.3/100
Balwyn vs Kew, VIC suburb comparison
Kew for families and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BalwynKew
Crime rate
Balwyn
55.4 / 1k
Kew
65.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Balwyn
394
Kew
616
Population
Balwyn
13,495
Kew
24,499
Metric leadBalwyn 4Kew 52 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 66.3/100 | 69.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 7.7/100 | 7.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 55.4 / 1k | 65.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 14 | 11 |
| Parks & reserves | 8 | 24 |
| Public transport stops | 47 | 116 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 394 | 616 |
| Planning activity | 119 | 342 |
| Population | 13,495 | 24,499 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Balwyn is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, while Kew is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by. Balwyn sits in a middle-ring position, whereas Kew is closer to the city centre.
Balwyn tends to lead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, while Kew stands out for parks and reserves and public transport access.
On balance, families and households prioritising schools are more likely to prefer Kew, while Balwyn remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.