Overall score
Hillcrest
48.7/100
Northfield
43.5/100
Hillcrest vs Northfield, SA suburb comparison
Hillcrest for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
HillcrestNorthfield
Crime rate
Hillcrest
69.9 / 1k
Northfield
80.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Hillcrest
81
Northfield
74
Population
Hillcrest
3,659
Northfield
5,043
Metric leadHillcrest 6Northfield 4across 10 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 | Hillcrest | Northfield |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 48.7/100 | 43.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 71.6/100 | 55.5/100 |
| Crime rate | 69.9 / 1k | 80.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 1 | 2 |
| Public transport stops | 9 | 14 |
| Walkability | 21.5/100 | 42.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 81 | 74 |
| Planning activity | 28 | 58 |
| Population | 3,659 | 5,043 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 2/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Hillcrest is a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, and Northfield is a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Hillcrest tends to lead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, while Northfield stands out for schools and education options and public transport access. On housing, Hillcrest sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Northfield.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Hillcrest, while Northfield remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.