Overall score
Darlington
44.8/100
Tonsley
35.3/100
Darlington vs Tonsley, SA suburb comparison
Darlington for retirees and families; Tonsley for investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
DarlingtonTonsley
Crime rate
Darlington
132.1 / 1k
Tonsley
130.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Darlington
38
Tonsley
86
Population
Darlington
1,275
Tonsley
743
Metric leadDarlington 5Tonsley 31 tiedacross 9 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesDarlington
- Best for familiesDarlington
- Best for investmentTonsley
- Best for best valueDarlington
- Best for best schoolsDarlington
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 | Darlington | Tonsley |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 44.8/100 | 35.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 53.7/100 | 50.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 132.1 / 1k | 130.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | — | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 6 | 7 |
| Walkability | 53.0/100 | 16.5/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 38 | 86 |
| Planning activity | 10 | 10 |
| Population | 1,275 | 743 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Darlington is a settled metro smaller community that keeps everyday living grounded and accessible, and Tonsley is a well-serviced metro smaller community with plenty happening nearby. Darlington sits in a middle-ring position, whereas Tonsley is closer to the city centre.
Darlington pulls ahead on housing affordability and walkability, whereas Tonsley is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and public transport access. Darlington generally means more approachable housing costs, while Tonsley leans toward more sought-after housing.
Retirees and families may find Darlington the better fit, while investors are more likely to prefer Tonsley.