Overall score
Busby
38.5/100
Prestons
57.6/100
Busby vs Prestons, NSW suburb comparison
Prestons for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
BusbyPrestons
Crime rate
Busby
72.9 / 1k
Prestons
168.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Busby
34
Prestons
167
Population
Busby
4,446
Prestons
15,694
Metric leadBusby 3Prestons 8across 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 | Busby | Prestons |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 38.5/100 | 57.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 37.3/100 | 48.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 72.9 / 1k | 168.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 13 | 5 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | 15 |
| Public transport stops | 35 | 156 |
| Walkability | 30.0/100 | 57.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 34 | 167 |
| Planning activity | 6 | 20 |
| Population | 4,446 | 15,694 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 1/10 | 7/10 |
Comparison summary
Busby is a settled metro mid-sized suburb that keeps everyday living grounded and accessible, while Prestons is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Busby sits further out with more breathing room, whereas Prestons is in a middle-ring position.
Busby tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook, while Prestons stands out for housing affordability and schools and education options. On housing, Busby sits in a affordable band, compared with a expensive feel in Prestons.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Prestons, while Busby remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.