Overall score
Jesmond
47.5/100
Waratah
55.0/100
Jesmond for investment; Waratah for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Jesmond
47.5/100
Waratah
55.0/100
Crime rate
Jesmond
108.6 / 1k
Waratah
158.1 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Jesmond
299
Waratah
190
Population
Jesmond
3,210
Waratah
4,927
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | Jesmond | Waratah |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 47.5/100 | 55.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 26.5/100 | 40.8/100 |
| Crime rate | 108.6 / 1k | 158.1 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 7 | 15 |
| Parks & reserves | 1 | 3 |
| Public transport stops | 31 | 110 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 90.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 299 | 190 |
| Planning activity | 11 | 25 |
| Population | 3,210 | 4,927 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 2/10 | 4/10 |
Jesmond is a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, while Waratah is an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap.
On the data, Jesmond is stronger for a quieter safety profile and walkability; Waratah answers with housing affordability and schools and education options. Jesmond generally means more approachable housing costs, while Waratah leans toward more sought-after housing.
Jesmond suits investors more clearly, whereas Waratah is the stronger match for retirees and families.