Overall score
Karnup
23.4/100
Port Kennedy
64.8/100
Port Kennedy for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Karnup
23.4/100
Port Kennedy
64.8/100
Crime rate
Karnup
5851.9 / 1k
Port Kennedy
1084.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Karnup
0
Port Kennedy
165
Population
Karnup
2,096
Port Kennedy
13,477
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 | Karnup | Port Kennedy |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 23.4/100 | 64.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 44.7/100 | 89.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 5851.9 / 1k | 1084.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | — | 4 |
| Parks & reserves | 1 | 4 |
| Public transport stops | 1 | 57 |
| Walkability | 1.5/100 | 84.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 0 | 165 |
| Planning activity | 1 | — |
| Population | 2,096 | 13,477 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 4/10 |
Karnup is a settled metro smaller community that balances access with everyday calm, while Port Kennedy is a coastal established suburb shaped by beach life and outdoor living. Port Kennedy leans into coastal living, while Karnup feels more inland and suburban in character.
On the data, Karnup is stronger for stronger socioeconomic advantage; Port Kennedy answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Port Kennedy, while Karnup remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.