Overall score
Mawson Lakes
61.6/100
Parafield Gardens
64.7/100
Mawson Lakes vs Parafield Gardens, SA suburb comparison
Mawson Lakes for retirees; Parafield Gardens for families and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Mawson LakesParafield Gardens
Crime rate
Mawson Lakes
60.1 / 1k
Parafield Gardens
47.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Mawson Lakes
560
Parafield Gardens
164
Population
Mawson Lakes
13,794
Parafield Gardens
18,467
Metric leadMawson Lakes 4Parafield Gardens 6across 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesMawson Lakes
- Best for familiesParafield Gardens
- Best for investmentParafield Gardens
- Best for best valueParafield Gardens
- Best for best schoolsParafield Gardens
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 | Mawson Lakes | Parafield Gardens |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 61.6/100 | 64.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 45.8/100 | 74.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 60.1 / 1k | 47.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 2 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | 61 | 73 |
| Walkability | 85.0/100 | 76.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 560 | 164 |
| Planning activity | 45 | 148 |
| Population | 13,794 | 18,467 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 8/10 | 1/10 |
Comparison summary
Mawson Lakes is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, while Parafield Gardens is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Mawson Lakes pulls ahead on walkability and nearby cafés and amenities, whereas Parafield Gardens is the better pick for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile. Mawson Lakes generally means more sought-after housing, while Parafield Gardens leans toward more approachable housing costs.
Retirees may find Mawson Lakes the better fit, while families and investors are more likely to prefer Parafield Gardens.