Overall score
Highfields
39.5/100
Kotara South
43.6/100
Highfields vs Kotara South, NSW suburb comparison
Kotara South for families and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
HighfieldsKotara South
Crime rate
Highfields
86.9 / 1k
Kotara South
87.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Highfields
19
Kotara South
16
Population
Highfields
936
Kotara South
1,267
Metric leadHighfields 3Kotara South 52 tiedacross 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for familiesKotara South
- Best for best schoolsKotara South
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 | Highfields | Kotara South |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 39.5/100 | 43.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 57.7/100 | 57.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 86.9 / 1k | 87.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 6 | 11 |
| Parks & reserves | — | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 20 | 30 |
| Walkability | 30.0/100 | 30.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 19 | 16 |
| Planning activity | 7 | 6 |
| Population | 936 | 1,267 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Comparison summary
Highfields is a practical metro smaller community with solid links to the wider city, while Kotara South is a settled metro smaller community that balances access with everyday calm.
On the data, Highfields is stronger for a quieter safety profile and nearby cafés and amenities; Kotara South answers with public transport access and overall desirability.
On balance, families and households prioritising schools are more likely to prefer Kotara South, while Highfields remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.