Overall score
North Epping
58.8/100
Thornleigh
71.5/100
North Epping vs Thornleigh, NSW suburb comparison
Thornleigh for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
North EppingThornleigh
Crime rate
North Epping
32.4 / 1k
Thornleigh
23.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
North Epping
443
Thornleigh
343
Population
North Epping
4,657
Thornleigh
8,898
Metric leadNorth Epping 4Thornleigh 61 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 retireesThornleigh
- Best for familiesThornleigh
- Best for best valueThornleigh
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 Epping | Thornleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 58.8/100 | 71.5/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 37.3/100 | 43.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 32.4 / 1k | 23.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 10 | 8 |
| Parks & reserves | 3 | 8 |
| Public transport stops | 49 | 180 |
| Walkability | 78.0/100 | 71.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 443 | 343 |
| Planning activity | 22 | 24 |
| Population | 4,657 | 8,898 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
North Epping reads as a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby; Thornleigh is an energetic metro established suburb where cafés and local life overlap.
On the data, North Epping is stronger for walkability and nearby cafés and amenities; Thornleigh answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Thornleigh, while North Epping remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.