Overall score
Charlestown
68.2/100
Highfields
39.5/100
Charlestown vs Highfields, NSW suburb comparison
Charlestown for families and value; Highfields for retirees.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CharlestownHighfields
Crime rate
Charlestown
66.2 / 1k
Highfields
86.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Charlestown
209
Highfields
19
Population
Charlestown
13,601
Highfields
936
Metric leadCharlestown 8Highfields 2across 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesHighfields
- Best for familiesCharlestown
- 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 | Highfields |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.2/100 | 39.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 59.1/100 | 57.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 66.2 / 1k | 86.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 12 | 6 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | — |
| Public transport stops | 225 | 20 |
| Walkability | 88.0/100 | 30.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 209 | 19 |
| Planning activity | 74 | 7 |
| Population | 13,601 | 936 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 7/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Charlestown reads as a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby; Highfields is a practical metro smaller community with solid links to the wider city. Charlestown sits in a middle-ring position, whereas Highfields is further out with more breathing room.
Charlestown pulls ahead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, whereas Highfields is the better pick for a calmer planning outlook and stronger socioeconomic advantage.
Charlestown suits families and value-focused buyers more clearly, whereas Highfields is the stronger match for retirees.