Overall score
Carrara
48.4/100
Merrimac
61.0/100
Carrara vs Merrimac, QLD suburb comparison
Merrimac for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CarraraMerrimac
Crime rate
Carrara
35.6 / 1k
Merrimac
26.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Carrara
45
Merrimac
74
Population
Carrara
13,138
Merrimac
7,212
Metric leadCarrara 3Merrimac 61 tiedacross 10 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.
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Carrara is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Merrimac is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Carrara pulls ahead on public transport access and a larger local community, whereas Merrimac is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and schools and education options.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Merrimac, while Carrara remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.