Overall score
Cheltenham
72.1/100
Clayton South
55.2/100
Cheltenham vs Clayton South, VIC suburb comparison
Cheltenham for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CheltenhamClayton South
Crime rate
Cheltenham
88.0 / 1k
Clayton South
84.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Cheltenham
584
Clayton South
232
Population
Cheltenham
23,992
Clayton South
13,381
Metric leadCheltenham 8Clayton South 3across 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 retireesCheltenham
- Best for familiesCheltenham
- Best for investmentCheltenham
- Best for best valueCheltenham
- Best for best schoolsCheltenham
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 | Clayton South |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 72.1/100 | 55.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 32.3/100 | 35.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 88.0 / 1k | 84.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 7 | 5 |
| Parks & reserves | 22 | 12 |
| Public transport stops | 148 | 89 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 50.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 584 | 232 |
| Planning activity | 242 | 147 |
| Population | 23,992 | 13,381 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 5/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Cheltenham is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Clayton South is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Cheltenham is stronger for a quieter safety profile and schools and education options; Clayton South answers with housing affordability and a calmer planning outlook.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Cheltenham, while Clayton South remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.