Overall score
Charlestown
68.2/100
Gateshead
43.3/100
Charlestown vs Gateshead, NSW suburb comparison
Charlestown for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CharlestownGateshead
Crime rate
Charlestown
66.2 / 1k
Gateshead
66.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Charlestown
209
Gateshead
46
Population
Charlestown
13,601
Gateshead
3,121
Metric leadCharlestown 9Gateshead 2across 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 retireesCharlestown
- Best for familiesCharlestown
- Best for investmentCharlestown
- Best for best valueCharlestown
- Best for best schoolsCharlestown
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 | Charlestown | Gateshead |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.2/100 | 43.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 59.1/100 | 46.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 66.2 / 1k | 66.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 12 | 7 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 225 | 70 |
| Walkability | 88.0/100 | 38.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 209 | 46 |
| Planning activity | 75 | 16 |
| Population | 13,601 | 3,121 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 7/10 | 1/10 |
Comparison summary
Charlestown is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Gateshead is a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Charlestown pulls ahead on housing affordability and parks and reserves, whereas Gateshead is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook. On housing, Charlestown sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Gateshead.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Charlestown, while Gateshead remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.