Overall score
Katoomba
59.5/100
Penrith
69.0/100
Katoomba vs Penrith, NSW suburb comparison
Penrith for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
KatoombaPenrith
Crime rate
Katoomba
82.6 / 1k
Penrith
154.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Katoomba
764
Penrith
1,109
Population
Katoomba
8,268
Penrith
17,966
Metric leadKatoomba 4Penrith 52 tiedacross 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 | Katoomba | Penrith |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 59.5/100 | 69.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 26.8/100 | 25.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 82.6 / 1k | 154.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 3 | 5 |
| Parks & reserves | 23 | 23 |
| Public transport stops | 242 | 280 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 764 | 1,109 |
| Planning activity | 55 | 59 |
| Population | 8,268 | 17,966 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 4/10 | 3/10 |
Comparison summary
Katoomba is a hillside established suburb with greener streets and a quieter pace, while Penrith is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby. Katoomba sits among greener hillside streets, while Penrith keeps a flatter suburban layout.
On the data, Katoomba is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Penrith answers with schools and education options and public transport access. On housing, Katoomba sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Penrith.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Penrith, while Katoomba remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.