Overall score
Cheltenham
72.1/100
Parkdale
71.7/100
Cheltenham for schools; Parkdale for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Cheltenham
72.1/100
Parkdale
71.7/100
Crime rate
Cheltenham
88.0 / 1k
Parkdale
36.2 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Cheltenham
584
Parkdale
157
Population
Cheltenham
23,992
Parkdale
12,308
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 | Cheltenham | Parkdale |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 72.1/100 | 71.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 32.3/100 | 47.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 88.0 / 1k | 36.2 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 7 | 12 |
| Parks & reserves | 22 | 4 |
| Public transport stops | 148 | 59 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 86.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 584 | 157 |
| Planning activity | 242 | 163 |
| Population | 23,992 | 12,308 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Cheltenham is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Parkdale is a beachside established suburb where the coast sets the tone. Parkdale leans into coastal living, while Cheltenham feels more inland and suburban in character.
Cheltenham tends to lead on parks and reserves and public transport access, while Parkdale stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Choose Cheltenham if you are weighing households prioritising schools; lean toward Parkdale for retirees and families.