Overall score
Newtown
68.2/100
Waterloo
62.8/100
Newtown vs Waterloo, NSW suburb comparison
Newtown for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
NewtownWaterloo
Crime rate
Newtown
117.5 / 1k
Waterloo
89.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Newtown
545
Waterloo
538
Population
Newtown
14,690
Waterloo
16,379
Metric leadNewtown 4Waterloo 52 tiedacross 11 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 | Newtown | Waterloo |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 68.2/100 | 62.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 13.1/100 | 6.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 117.5 / 1k | 89.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 25 | 19 |
| Parks & reserves | 18 | 20 |
| Public transport stops | 59 | 75 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 545 | 538 |
| Planning activity | 92 | 34 |
| Population | 14,690 | 16,379 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Newtown is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Waterloo is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby.
On the data, Newtown is stronger for housing affordability and schools and education options; Waterloo answers with a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Newtown, while Waterloo remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.