Overall score
Brunswick
72.3/100
Carlton North
59.2/100
Brunswick for families and value; Carlton North for retirees.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Brunswick
72.3/100
Carlton North
59.2/100
Crime rate
Brunswick
93.5 / 1k
Carlton North
75.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Brunswick
1,219
Carlton North
310
Population
Brunswick
24,896
Carlton North
6,177
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 | Brunswick | Carlton North |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 72.3/100 | 59.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 18.0/100 | 12.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 93.5 / 1k | 75.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 13 | 17 |
| Parks & reserves | 25 | 5 |
| Public transport stops | 133 | 35 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 75.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 1,219 | 310 |
| Planning activity | 407 | 151 |
| Population | 24,896 | 6,177 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Brunswick is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Carlton North is a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Brunswick is stronger for housing affordability and parks and reserves; Carlton North answers with a quieter safety profile and schools and education options.
Families and value-focused buyers may find Brunswick the better fit, while retirees are more likely to prefer Carlton North.