Overall score
Glen Iris
66.9/100
Malvern
55.6/100
Glen Iris vs Malvern, VIC suburb comparison
Glen Iris for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Glen IrisMalvern
Crime rate
Glen Iris
44.4 / 1k
Malvern
72.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Glen Iris
346
Malvern
244
Population
Glen Iris
26,131
Malvern
9,929
Metric leadGlen Iris 7Malvern 22 tiedacross 11 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
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 | Glen Iris | Malvern |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 66.9/100 | 55.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 9.9/100 | 4.9/100 |
| Crime rate | 44.4 / 1k | 72.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 9 | 12 |
| Parks & reserves | 19 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 106 | 69 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 346 | 244 |
| Planning activity | 323 | 301 |
| Population | 26,131 | 9,929 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Glen Iris is a lively metro larger suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, while Malvern is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Glen Iris sits in a middle-ring position, whereas Malvern is closer to the city centre.
On the data, Glen Iris is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Malvern answers with schools and education options and a calmer planning outlook.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Glen Iris, while Malvern remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.