Overall score
Gnarabup
30.6/100
Margaret River
38.5/100
Gnarabup vs Margaret River, WA suburb comparison
Gnarabup for retirees and beach lifestyle; Margaret River for families and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
GnarabupMargaret River
Crime rate
Gnarabup
12879.4 / 1k
Margaret River
756.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Gnarabup
34
Margaret River
0
Population
Gnarabup
525
Margaret River
8,918
Metric leadGnarabup 3Margaret River 4across 7 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesGnarabup
- Best for familiesMargaret River
- Best for beach lifestyleGnarabup
- Best for investmentMargaret River
- Best for best valueMargaret River
- Best for best schoolsMargaret River
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 | Gnarabup | Margaret River |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 30.6/100 | 38.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 10.6/100 | 20.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 12879.4 / 1k | 756.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | — | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | — | 3 |
| Public transport stops | — | 1 |
| Walkability | 2.0/100 | 1.5/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 34 | 0 |
| Population | 525 | 8,918 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 6/10 |
Comparison summary
Gnarabup is a beachside smaller community where the coast sets the tone, while Margaret River is a slower-paced established suburb with open surrounds. Where Gnarabup is shaped by the coast, Margaret River offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
Gnarabup tends to lead on walkability and nearby cafés and amenities, while Margaret River stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Retirees and people chasing a beach lifestyle may find Gnarabup the better fit, while families and investors are more likely to prefer Margaret River.