Overall score
Collaroy Plateau
59.3/100
Dee Why
74.1/100
Collaroy Plateau for retirees and investment; Dee Why for families and beach lifestyle.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Collaroy Plateau
59.3/100
Dee Why
74.1/100
Crime rate
Collaroy Plateau
16.6 / 1k
Dee Why
26.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Collaroy Plateau
67
Dee Why
491
Population
Collaroy Plateau
4,805
Dee Why
23,354
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 | Collaroy Plateau | Dee Why |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 59.3/100 | 74.1/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 36.6/100 | 39.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 16.6 / 1k | 26.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 14 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 11 |
| Public transport stops | 50 | 122 |
| Walkability | 67.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 67 | 491 |
| Planning activity | 18 | 46 |
| Population | 4,805 | 23,354 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Collaroy Plateau is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Dee Why is a beachside established suburb where the coast sets the tone. Where Dee Why is shaped by the coast, Collaroy Plateau offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
Collaroy Plateau tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook, while Dee Why stands out for housing affordability and schools and education options.
Collaroy Plateau suits retirees and investors more clearly, whereas Dee Why is the stronger match for families and people chasing a beach lifestyle.