Overall score
North Lakes
69.9/100
Rothwell
64.6/100
North Lakes for retirees and families; Rothwell for beach lifestyle and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
North Lakes
69.9/100
Rothwell
64.6/100
Crime rate
North Lakes
36.6 / 1k
Rothwell
67.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
North Lakes
449
Rothwell
171
Population
North Lakes
23,030
Rothwell
7,538
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 | North Lakes | Rothwell |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 69.9/100 | 64.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 76.0/100 | 94.9/100 |
| Crime rate | 36.6 / 1k | 67.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 3 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 7 | 15 |
| Public transport stops | 47 | 23 |
| Walkability | 84.0/100 | 90.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 449 | 171 |
| Population | 23,030 | 7,538 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 8/10 | 2/10 |
North Lakes reads as a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by; Rothwell is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone. Where Rothwell is shaped by the coast, North Lakes offers a more landlocked suburban rhythm.
On the data, North Lakes is stronger for a quieter safety profile and schools and education options; Rothwell answers with housing affordability and parks and reserves. On housing, North Lakes sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Rothwell.
Retirees and families may find North Lakes the better fit, while people chasing a beach lifestyle and investors are more likely to prefer Rothwell.