Overall score
Carlton
69.5/100
North Melbourne
68.7/100
Carlton vs North Melbourne, VIC suburb comparison
Carlton for investment; North Melbourne for schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CarltonNorth Melbourne
Crime rate
Carlton
125.4 / 1k
North Melbourne
126.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Carlton
1,262
North Melbourne
735
Population
Carlton
16,055
North Melbourne
14,953
Metric leadCarlton 7North Melbourne 22 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 investmentCarlton
- Best for best schoolsNorth Melbourne
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 | Carlton | North Melbourne |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 69.5/100 | 68.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.6/100 | 14.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 125.4 / 1k | 126.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 19 | 12 |
| Parks & reserves | 14 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | 54 | 72 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 1,262 | 735 |
| Planning activity | 166 | 192 |
| Population | 16,055 | 14,953 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 9/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Carlton is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and North Melbourne is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Carlton pulls ahead on a quieter safety profile and schools and education options, whereas North Melbourne is the better pick for housing affordability and public transport access.
Carlton suits investors more clearly, whereas North Melbourne is the stronger match for households prioritising schools.