Overall score
Darlington
49.3/100
Helena Valley
52.1/100
Darlington for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Darlington
49.3/100
Helena Valley
52.1/100
Crime rate
Darlington
2603.4 / 1k
Helena Valley
2065.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Darlington
50
Helena Valley
34
Population
Darlington
3,725
Helena Valley
4,130
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 | Darlington | Helena Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 49.3/100 | 52.1/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 46.5/100 | 46.5/100 |
| Crime rate | 2603.4 / 1k | 2065.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 2 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 3 |
| Public transport stops | 37 | 21 |
| Walkability | 34.0/100 | 72.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 50 | 34 |
| Population | 3,725 | 4,130 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 8/10 |
Darlington reads as a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby; Helena Valley is a settled metro mid-sized suburb that balances access with everyday calm.
On the data, Darlington is stronger for schools and education options and public transport access; Helena Valley answers with a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Darlington, while Helena Valley remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.