Overall score
Kotara
69.5/100
Merewether
54.8/100
Kotara vs Merewether, NSW suburb comparison
Kotara for retirees and families; Merewether for beach lifestyle.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
KotaraMerewether
Crime rate
Kotara
86.9 / 1k
Merewether
80.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Kotara
295
Merewether
218
Population
Kotara
3,980
Merewether
11,788
Metric leadKotara 6Merewether 5across 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 | Kotara | Merewether |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 69.5/100 | 54.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 57.7/100 | 39.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 86.9 / 1k | 80.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 6 |
| Parks & reserves | 9 | 12 |
| Public transport stops | 98 | 184 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 73.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 295 | 218 |
| Planning activity | 19 | 86 |
| Population | 3,980 | 11,788 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Kotara is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Merewether is a coastal established suburb shaped by beach life and outdoor living. Merewether leans into coastal living, while Kotara feels more inland and suburban in character.
Kotara tends to lead on housing affordability and walkability, while Merewether stands out for a quieter safety profile and schools and education options.
Retirees and investors may find Kotara the better fit, while families and people chasing a beach lifestyle are more likely to prefer Merewether.