Overall score
North Boambee Valley
36.8/100
Sawtell
56.0/100
North Boambee Valley vs Sawtell, NSW suburb comparison
Sawtell for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
North Boambee ValleySawtell
Crime rate
North Boambee Valley
127.4 / 1k
Sawtell
75.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
North Boambee Valley
31
Sawtell
121
Population
North Boambee Valley
2,318
Sawtell
3,788
Metric leadNorth Boambee Valley 1Sawtell 91 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 | North Boambee Valley | Sawtell |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 36.8/100 | 56.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 38.0/100 | 63.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 127.4 / 1k | 75.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 1 | 3 |
| Parks & reserves | 2 | 4 |
| Public transport stops | 31 | 60 |
| Walkability | 32.0/100 | 54.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 31 | 121 |
| Planning activity | 20 | 24 |
| Population | 2,318 | 3,788 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 6/10 | 6/10 |
Comparison summary
North Boambee Valley reads as a regional hub with its own identity and everyday convenience; Sawtell is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone. Where Sawtell is shaped by the coast, North Boambee Valley offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
On the data, North Boambee Valley is stronger for a calmer planning outlook; Sawtell answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Households prioritising schools may find North Boambee Valley the better fit, while retirees and families are more likely to prefer Sawtell.