Overall score
Mossman
56.0/100
Port Douglas
46.4/100
Mossman for families and investment; Port Douglas for beach lifestyle.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Mossman
56.0/100
Port Douglas
46.4/100
Crime rate
Mossman
35.7 / 1k
Port Douglas
38.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Mossman
55
Port Douglas
55
Population
Mossman
1,935
Port Douglas
3,650
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | Mossman | Port Douglas |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 56.0/100 | 46.4/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 65.9/100 | 31.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 35.7 / 1k | 38.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 3 | 1 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 7 |
| Walkability | 33.0/100 | 2.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 55 | 55 |
| Population | 1,935 | 3,650 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 1/10 | 5/10 |
Mossman reads as a regional smaller community with local services and a more relaxed pace; Port Douglas is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone. Port Douglas leans into coastal living, while Mossman feels more inland and suburban in character.
Mossman tends to lead on housing affordability and schools and education options, while Port Douglas stands out for a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves. On housing, Mossman sits in a affordable band, compared with a expensive feel in Port Douglas.
Mossman suits investors and value-focused buyers more clearly, whereas Port Douglas is the stronger match for retirees and families.