Overall score
Charlestown
68.2/100
Kotara
69.5/100
Charlestown vs Kotara, NSW suburb comparison
Kotara for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CharlestownKotara
Crime rate
Charlestown
66.2 / 1k
Kotara
86.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Charlestown
209
Kotara
295
Population
Charlestown
13,601
Kotara
3,980
Metric leadCharlestown 5Kotara 6across 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 | Charlestown | Kotara |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.2/100 | 69.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 59.1/100 | 57.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 66.2 / 1k | 86.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 12 | 8 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | 225 | 98 |
| Walkability | 88.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 209 | 295 |
| Planning activity | 74 | 19 |
| Population | 13,601 | 3,980 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 7/10 | 9/10 |
Comparison summary
Charlestown reads as a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby; Kotara is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby.
On the data, Charlestown is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Kotara answers with parks and reserves and walkability.
Charlestown suits families and value-focused buyers more clearly, whereas Kotara is the stronger match for retirees.