McKellar vs Spence, ACT suburb comparison

McKellar for retirees; Spence for investment and schools.

See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.

Head to head

Visual comparison

McKellarSpence

Overall score

McKellar

52.1/100

Spence

55.6/100

Crime rate

McKellar

13.5 / 1k

Spence

23.3 / 1k

Nearby amenities

McKellar

52

Spence

64

Population

McKellar

2,740

Spence

2,587

Metric leadMcKellar 3Spence 42 tiedacross 9 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.

CategoryMcKellarSpence
Overall score52.1/10055.6/100
Housing (desirability)76.0/10076.0/100
Crime rate13.5 / 1k23.3 / 1k
Schools & preschools44
Parks & reserves1
Walkability34.0/10074.0/100
Nearby amenities5264
Planning activity52
Population2,7402,587
SEIFA (IRSAD decile)10/109/10

Comparison summary

McKellar is a lively metro mid-sized suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by, while Spence is an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap. McKellar sits closer to the city centre, whereas Spence is in a middle-ring position.

On the data, McKellar is stronger for a quieter safety profile and overall desirability; Spence answers with walkability and nearby cafés and amenities.

McKellar suits retirees and families more clearly, whereas Spence is the stronger match for investors and households prioritising schools.

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