Overall score
Medowie
63.7/100
Nelson Bay
42.2/100
Medowie vs Nelson Bay, NSW suburb comparison
Medowie for retirees and families; Nelson Bay for beach lifestyle and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
MedowieNelson Bay
Crime rate
Medowie
39.3 / 1k
Nelson Bay
70.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Medowie
108
Nelson Bay
51
Population
Medowie
10,879
Nelson Bay
6,141
Metric leadMedowie 9Nelson Bay 02 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 retireesMedowie
- Best for familiesMedowie
- Best for beach lifestyleNelson Bay
- Best for investmentMedowie
- Best for best valueMedowie
- Best for best schoolsNelson Bay
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 | Medowie | Nelson Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 63.7/100 | 42.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 71.2/100 | 25.2/100 |
| Crime rate | 39.3 / 1k | 70.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 1 | 1 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 2 |
| Public transport stops | 268 | 122 |
| Walkability | 79.0/100 | 32.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 108 | 51 |
| Planning activity | 70 | 71 |
| Population | 10,879 | 6,141 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Medowie is a regional established suburb that feels self-contained without feeling remote, while Nelson Bay is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone. Where Nelson Bay is shaped by the coast, Medowie offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
On the data, Medowie is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Nelson Bay answers with excellent public transport and generous parks and open space.
Medowie suits retirees and families more clearly, whereas Nelson Bay is the stronger match for people chasing a beach lifestyle.