Overall score
Carlton
69.5/100
Parkville
58.3/100
Carlton vs Parkville, VIC suburb comparison
Carlton for families and investment; Parkville for retirees.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CarltonParkville
Crime rate
Carlton
125.4 / 1k
Parkville
150.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Carlton
1,262
Parkville
683
Population
Carlton
16,055
Parkville
7,074
Metric leadCarlton 7Parkville 4across 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 | Carlton | Parkville |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 69.5/100 | 58.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 8.6/100 | 7.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 125.4 / 1k | 150.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 19 | 18 |
| Parks & reserves | 14 | 26 |
| Public transport stops | 54 | 64 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 85.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 1,262 | 683 |
| Planning activity | 166 | 60 |
| Population | 16,055 | 7,074 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Carlton is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Parkville is an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap.
On the data, Carlton is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Parkville answers with parks and reserves and public transport access.
Families and investors may find Carlton the better fit, while retirees are more likely to prefer Parkville.