Overall score
Mount Barker
60.9/100
Pakenham
74.1/100
Mount Barker vs Pakenham suburb comparison (SA vs VIC)
Mount Barker for retirees; Pakenham for families and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Mount BarkerPakenham
Crime rate
Mount Barker
29.4 / 1k
Pakenham
84.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Mount Barker
250
Pakenham
455
Population
Mount Barker
18,330
Pakenham
54,118
Metric leadMount Barker 4Pakenham 6across 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 retireesMount Barker
- Best for familiesPakenham
- Best for investmentPakenham
- Best for best valuePakenham
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 | Mount Barker | Pakenham |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 60.9/100 | 74.1/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 47.6/100 | 81.2/100 |
| Crime rate | 29.4 / 1k | 84.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 9 | 4 |
| Parks & reserves | — | 24 |
| Public transport stops | 64 | 258 |
| Walkability | 80.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 250 | 455 |
| Planning activity | 453 | 494 |
| Population | 18,330 | 54,118 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 4/10 |
Comparison summary
Mount Barker (SA) is a leafier hillside established suburb with elevated outlooks, while Pakenham (VIC) is a well-serviced metro larger suburb with plenty happening nearby. Mount Barker sits among greener hillside streets, while Pakenham keeps a flatter suburban layout.
Mount Barker tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and schools and education options, while Pakenham stands out for housing affordability and public transport access. On housing, Mount Barker sits in a expensive band, compared with a well priced feel in Pakenham.
Mount Barker suits retirees more clearly, whereas Pakenham is the stronger match for investors and value-focused buyers.