Overall score
Golden Square
62.9/100
West Bendigo
32.2/100
Golden Square vs West Bendigo, VIC suburb comparison
Golden Square for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Golden SquareWest Bendigo
Crime rate
Golden Square
92.4 / 1k
West Bendigo
147.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Golden Square
123
West Bendigo
187
Population
Golden Square
9,220
West Bendigo
378
Metric leadGolden Square 9West Bendigo 2across 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 retireesGolden Square
- Best for investmentGolden Square
- Best for best valueGolden Square
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 | Golden Square | West Bendigo |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 62.9/100 | 32.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 80.9/100 | 48.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 92.4 / 1k | 147.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 3 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 5 | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 65 | 3 |
| Walkability | 82.0/100 | 6.5/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 123 | 187 |
| Planning activity | 134 | 14 |
| Population | 9,220 | 378 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 3/10 | 2/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Golden Square is a regional established suburb with local services and a more relaxed pace, and West Bendigo is a regional hub with its own identity and everyday convenience.
Golden Square tends to lead on housing affordability and schools and education options, while West Bendigo stands out for a quieter safety profile and nearby cafés and amenities.
Golden Square suits investors and value-focused buyers more clearly, whereas West Bendigo is the stronger match for retirees and families.