Overall score
Darlington
46.0/100
Zetland
58.1/100
Darlington vs Zetland, NSW suburb comparison
Darlington for retirees and families; Zetland for investment and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
DarlingtonZetland
Crime rate
Darlington
73.8 / 1k
Zetland
89.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Darlington
214
Zetland
570
Population
Darlington
2,597
Zetland
12,622
Metric leadDarlington 3Zetland 71 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 retireesDarlington
- Best for familiesDarlington
- Best for investmentZetland
- Best for best valueZetland
- 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 | Zetland |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 46.0/100 | 58.1/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 2.7/100 | 5.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 73.8 / 1k | 89.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 28 | 14 |
| Parks & reserves | 4 | 14 |
| Public transport stops | 7 | 36 |
| Walkability | 65.5/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 214 | 570 |
| Planning activity | 14 | 47 |
| Population | 2,597 | 12,622 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Darlington reads as a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by; Zetland is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap.
On the data, Darlington is stronger for a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook; Zetland answers with housing affordability and parks and reserves.
Retirees may find Darlington the better fit, while families and investors are more likely to prefer Zetland.