Overall score
McLaren Vale
56.2/100
Old Noarlunga
39.8/100
McLaren Vale vs Old Noarlunga, SA suburb comparison
McLaren Vale for retirees and families; Old Noarlunga for investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
McLaren ValeOld Noarlunga
Crime rate
McLaren Vale
28.9 / 1k
Old Noarlunga
82.2 / 1k
Nearby amenities
McLaren Vale
147
Old Noarlunga
60
Population
McLaren Vale
4,061
Old Noarlunga
1,531
Metric leadMcLaren Vale 8Old Noarlunga 2across 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 retireesMcLaren Vale
- Best for familiesMcLaren Vale
- Best for investmentOld Noarlunga
- Best for best schoolsMcLaren Vale
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 | McLaren Vale | Old Noarlunga |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 56.2/100 | 39.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 54.0/100 | 66.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 28.9 / 1k | 82.2 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 2 | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 26 | 15 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 38.5/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 147 | 60 |
| Planning activity | 73 | 25 |
| Population | 4,061 | 1,531 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 2/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, McLaren Vale is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Old Noarlunga is an energetic metro smaller community where cafés and local life overlap.
McLaren Vale tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and schools and education options, while Old Noarlunga stands out for housing affordability and a calmer planning outlook. On housing, McLaren Vale sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Old Noarlunga.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer McLaren Vale, while Old Noarlunga remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.