Overall score
Dubbo
55.5/100
Buderim
77.3/100
Buderim for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Dubbo
55.5/100
Buderim
77.3/100
Crime rate
Dubbo
153.5 / 1k
Buderim
13.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Dubbo
38
Buderim
142
Population
Dubbo
43,516
Buderim
31,430
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 | Dubbo | Buderim |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 55.5/100 | 77.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 83.2/100 | 76.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 153.5 / 1k | 13.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 2 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 58 | 59 |
| Public transport stops | 1,884 | 78 |
| Walkability | 32.0/100 | 84.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 38 | 142 |
| Planning activity | 365 | — |
| Population | 43,516 | 31,430 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 4/10 | 8/10 |
Dubbo (NSW) is a regional larger suburb that feels self-contained without feeling remote, while Buderim (QLD) is an energetic metro larger suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Dubbo sits more regionally self-contained, whereas Buderim is in a middle-ring position.
On the data, Dubbo is stronger for housing affordability and schools and education options; Buderim answers with a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Buderim, while Dubbo remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.