Overall score
Darlinghurst
60.7/100
Paddington
66.9/100
Darlinghurst vs Paddington, NSW suburb comparison
Darlinghurst for schools; Paddington for retirees and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
DarlinghurstPaddington
Crime rate
Darlinghurst
208.4 / 1k
Paddington
75.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Darlinghurst
590
Paddington
505
Population
Darlinghurst
10,615
Paddington
12,701
Metric leadDarlinghurst 4Paddington 61 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 retireesPaddington
- Best for best valuePaddington
- Best for best schoolsDarlinghurst
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 | Darlinghurst | Paddington |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 60.7/100 | 66.9/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 4.6/100 | 4.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 208.4 / 1k | 75.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 24 | 18 |
| Parks & reserves | 13 | 14 |
| Public transport stops | 55 | 46 |
| Walkability | 75.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 590 | 505 |
| Planning activity | 67 | 150 |
| Population | 10,615 | 12,701 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Darlinghurst is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Paddington is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Darlinghurst pulls ahead on public transport access and nearby cafés and amenities, whereas Paddington is the better pick for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Choose Darlinghurst if you are weighing households prioritising schools; lean toward Paddington for retirees and families.