Overall score
Kelso
64.9/100
South Bathurst
47.7/100
Kelso vs South Bathurst, NSW suburb comparison
Kelso for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
KelsoSouth Bathurst
Crime rate
Kelso
94.6 / 1k
South Bathurst
94.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Kelso
167
South Bathurst
58
Population
Kelso
10,039
South Bathurst
1,583
Metric leadKelso 9South Bathurst 2across 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 | Kelso | South Bathurst |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 64.9/100 | 47.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 88.3/100 | 80.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 94.6 / 1k | 94.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 3 | 5 |
| Parks & reserves | 10 | 2 |
| Public transport stops | 283 | 65 |
| Walkability | 71.0/100 | 30.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 167 | 58 |
| Planning activity | 41 | 12 |
| Population | 10,039 | 1,583 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 3/10 | 2/10 |
Comparison summary
Kelso is a regional established suburb with local services and a more relaxed pace, while South Bathurst is a regional smaller community that feels self-contained without feeling remote.
On the data, Kelso is stronger for housing affordability and schools and education options; South Bathurst answers with a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Kelso, while South Bathurst remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.