Overall score
Malvern
55.6/100
South Yarra
65.6/100
Malvern vs South Yarra, VIC suburb comparison
Malvern for retirees; South Yarra for investment and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
MalvernSouth Yarra
Crime rate
Malvern
72.8 / 1k
South Yarra
118.2 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Malvern
244
South Yarra
901
Population
Malvern
9,929
South Yarra
25,028
Metric leadMalvern 2South Yarra 72 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 retireesMalvern
- Best for investmentSouth Yarra
- Best for best valueSouth Yarra
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 | Malvern | South Yarra |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 55.6/100 | 65.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 4.9/100 | 6.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 72.8 / 1k | 118.2 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 12 | 14 |
| Parks & reserves | 6 | 14 |
| Public transport stops | 69 | 94 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 244 | 901 |
| Planning activity | 301 | 486 |
| Population | 9,929 | 25,028 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Malvern is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap, while South Yarra is a lively metro larger suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Malvern is stronger for a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook; South Yarra answers with housing affordability and schools and education options.
Malvern suits retirees more clearly, whereas South Yarra is the stronger match for investors and value-focused buyers.