Overall score
Northcote
73.7/100
Preston
71.2/100
Northcote vs Preston, VIC suburb comparison
Northcote for retirees and families; Preston for investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
NorthcotePreston
Crime rate
Northcote
66.2 / 1k
Preston
167.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Northcote
931
Preston
1,170
Population
Northcote
25,276
Preston
33,790
Metric leadNorthcote 5Preston 51 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 | Northcote | Preston |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 73.7/100 | 71.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 19.5/100 | 23.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 66.2 / 1k | 167.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 17 | 14 |
| Parks & reserves | 20 | 26 |
| Public transport stops | 160 | 234 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 931 | 1,170 |
| Planning activity | 377 | 458 |
| Population | 25,276 | 33,790 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 8/10 |
Comparison summary
Northcote reads as an energetic metro larger suburb where cafés and local life overlap; Preston is a lively metro larger suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Northcote pulls ahead on a quieter safety profile and schools and education options, whereas Preston is the better pick for housing affordability and parks and reserves.
Northcote suits retirees and families more clearly, whereas Preston is the stronger match for investors.