Overall score
McLaren Vale
56.2/100
Willunga
60.4/100
McLaren Vale vs Willunga, SA suburb comparison
Willunga for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
McLaren ValeWillunga
Crime rate
McLaren Vale
28.9 / 1k
Willunga
14.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
McLaren Vale
147
Willunga
58
Population
McLaren Vale
4,061
Willunga
2,445
Metric leadMcLaren Vale 4Willunga 6across 10 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 | McLaren Vale | Willunga |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 56.2/100 | 60.4/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 54.0/100 | 65.9/100 |
| Crime rate | 28.9 / 1k | 14.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 2 | 3 |
| Public transport stops | 26 | 14 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 52.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 147 | 58 |
| Planning activity | 73 | 49 |
| Population | 4,061 | 2,445 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, McLaren Vale is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Willunga is a hillside smaller community with greener streets and a quieter pace. Willunga sits among greener hillside streets, while McLaren Vale keeps a flatter suburban layout.
On the data, McLaren Vale is stronger for public transport access and walkability; Willunga answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Willunga, while McLaren Vale remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.