Overall score
Darley
45.8/100
Maddingley
50.9/100
Darley vs Maddingley, VIC suburb comparison
Darley for retirees; Maddingley for investment and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
DarleyMaddingley
Crime rate
Darley
61.0 / 1k
Maddingley
75.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Darley
19
Maddingley
58
Population
Darley
9,190
Maddingley
5,491
Metric leadDarley 5Maddingley 51 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 retireesDarley
- Best for investmentMaddingley
- Best for best schoolsMaddingley
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 | Darley | Maddingley |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 45.8/100 | 50.9/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 82.3/100 | 82.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 61.0 / 1k | 75.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 1 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 27 | 24 |
| Walkability | 32.0/100 | 30.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 19 | 58 |
| Planning activity | 38 | 53 |
| Population | 9,190 | 5,491 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 5/10 | 6/10 |
Comparison summary
Darley is a well-connected metro established suburb with a familiar suburban feel, while Maddingley is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby. Darley sits further out with more breathing room, whereas Maddingley is in a middle-ring position.
Darley pulls ahead on public transport access and walkability, whereas Maddingley is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and schools and education options.
On balance, investors and households prioritising schools are more likely to prefer Maddingley, while Darley remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.