Overall score
Islington
40.3/100
Waratah
55.0/100
Islington vs Waratah, NSW suburb comparison
Islington for retirees; Waratah for families and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
IslingtonWaratah
Crime rate
Islington
111.7 / 1k
Waratah
158.1 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Islington
95
Waratah
190
Population
Islington
2,026
Waratah
4,927
Metric leadIslington 3Waratah 8across 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 | Islington | Waratah |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 40.3/100 | 55.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 19.4/100 | 40.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 111.7 / 1k | 158.1 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 9 | 15 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 3 |
| Public transport stops | 35 | 110 |
| Walkability | 56.0/100 | 90.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 95 | 190 |
| Planning activity | 18 | 25 |
| Population | 2,026 | 4,927 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 8/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Islington is a lively metro smaller community with dining and everyday convenience close by, and Waratah is an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap.
Islington tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook, while Waratah stands out for housing affordability and schools and education options.
Islington suits retirees more clearly, whereas Waratah is the stronger match for families and value-focused buyers.