Overall score
Barden Ridge
52.5/100
Menai
63.5/100
Barden Ridge vs Menai, NSW suburb comparison
Menai for value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Barden RidgeMenai
Crime rate
Barden Ridge
20.7 / 1k
Menai
20.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Barden Ridge
113
Menai
107
Population
Barden Ridge
4,129
Menai
10,419
Metric leadBarden Ridge 1Menai 64 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 best valueMenai
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 | Barden Ridge | Menai |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 52.5/100 | 63.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 50.4/100 | 50.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 20.7 / 1k | 20.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 2 | 3 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | 54 | 120 |
| Walkability | 30.0/100 | 73.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 113 | 107 |
| Planning activity | 11 | 11 |
| Population | 4,129 | 10,419 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Barden Ridge reads as a hills mid-sized suburb where tree cover and calm define the mood; Menai is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Barden Ridge sits among greener hillside streets, while Menai keeps a flatter suburban layout.
On the data, Barden Ridge is stronger for nearby cafés and amenities; Menai answers with schools and education options and parks and reserves.
On balance, families and value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Menai, while Barden Ridge remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.