Overall score
Charlestown
68.2/100
Windale
42.4/100
Charlestown for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Charlestown
68.2/100
Windale
42.4/100
Crime rate
Charlestown
66.2 / 1k
Windale
177.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Charlestown
209
Windale
78
Population
Charlestown
13,601
Windale
3,421
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | Charlestown | Windale |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.2/100 | 42.4/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 59.1/100 | 76.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 66.2 / 1k | 177.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 12 | 7 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | — |
| Public transport stops | 225 | 83 |
| Walkability | 88.0/100 | 36.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 209 | 78 |
| Planning activity | 75 | 4 |
| Population | 13,601 | 3,421 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 7/10 | 1/10 |
Put side by side, Charlestown is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Windale is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby.
On the data, Charlestown is stronger for a quieter safety profile and schools and education options; Windale answers with housing affordability and a calmer planning outlook. On housing, Charlestown sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Windale.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Charlestown, while Windale remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.