Overall score
Kensington
67.2/100
North Melbourne
68.7/100
Kensington vs North Melbourne, VIC suburb comparison
Kensington for retirees and value; North Melbourne for families and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
KensingtonNorth Melbourne
Crime rate
Kensington
111.1 / 1k
North Melbourne
126.8 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Kensington
776
North Melbourne
735
Population
Kensington
10,745
North Melbourne
14,953
Metric leadKensington 6North Melbourne 41 tiedacross 11 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesKensington
- Best for familiesNorth Melbourne
- Best for best valueKensington
- Best for best schoolsNorth Melbourne
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 | Kensington | North Melbourne |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 67.2/100 | 68.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 27.0/100 | 14.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 111.1 / 1k | 126.8 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 11 | 12 |
| Parks & reserves | 21 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | 29 | 72 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 776 | 735 |
| Planning activity | 137 | 192 |
| Population | 10,745 | 14,953 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 9/10 |
Comparison summary
Kensington reads as an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap; North Melbourne is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Kensington is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; North Melbourne answers with schools and education options and public transport access.
Retirees and value-focused buyers may find Kensington the better fit, while families and households prioritising schools are more likely to prefer North Melbourne.