Overall score
Cheltenham
53.2/100
Thornleigh
71.5/100
Cheltenham vs Thornleigh, NSW suburb comparison
Cheltenham for families; Thornleigh for value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CheltenhamThornleigh
Crime rate
Cheltenham
13.8 / 1k
Thornleigh
23.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Cheltenham
169
Thornleigh
343
Population
Cheltenham
2,166
Thornleigh
8,898
Metric leadCheltenham 3Thornleigh 71 tiedacross 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 familiesCheltenham
- Best for best valueThornleigh
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 | Cheltenham | Thornleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 53.2/100 | 71.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 38.1/100 | 43.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 13.8 / 1k | 23.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 9 | 8 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 8 |
| Public transport stops | 29 | 180 |
| Walkability | 30.0/100 | 71.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 169 | 343 |
| Planning activity | 11 | 24 |
| Population | 2,166 | 8,898 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Cheltenham is a well-serviced metro smaller community with plenty happening nearby, and Thornleigh is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap.
Cheltenham tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook, while Thornleigh stands out for housing affordability and parks and reserves.
Families may find Cheltenham the better fit, while value-focused buyers and households prioritising schools are more likely to prefer Thornleigh.