Overall score
Collaroy
70.3/100
Narraweena
57.2/100
Collaroy vs Narraweena, NSW suburb comparison
Collaroy for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
CollaroyNarraweena
Crime rate
Collaroy
16.7 / 1k
Narraweena
26.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Collaroy
230
Narraweena
84
Population
Collaroy
7,944
Narraweena
6,971
Metric leadCollaroy 8Narraweena 3across 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 | Collaroy | Narraweena |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 70.3/100 | 57.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 39.8/100 | 37.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 16.7 / 1k | 26.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 7 | 14 |
| Parks & reserves | 8 | 7 |
| Public transport stops | 41 | 71 |
| Walkability | 75.0/100 | 48.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 230 | 84 |
| Planning activity | 32 | 20 |
| Population | 7,944 | 6,971 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Comparison summary
Collaroy reads as a coastal mid-sized suburb shaped by beach life and outdoor living; Narraweena is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby. Collaroy leans into coastal living, while Narraweena feels more inland and suburban in character.
On the data, Collaroy is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Narraweena answers with schools and education options and public transport access.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Collaroy, while Narraweena remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.