Overall score
Northcote
73.7/100
Reservoir
70.4/100
Northcote vs Reservoir, VIC suburb comparison
Northcote for retirees and families; Reservoir for investment and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
NorthcoteReservoir
Crime rate
Northcote
66.2 / 1k
Reservoir
93.6 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Northcote
931
Reservoir
588
Population
Northcote
25,276
Reservoir
51,096
Metric leadNorthcote 6Reservoir 41 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 | Reservoir |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 73.7/100 | 70.4/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 19.5/100 | 36.2/100 |
| Crime rate | 66.2 / 1k | 93.6 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 17 | 10 |
| Parks & reserves | 20 | 53 |
| Public transport stops | 160 | 365 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 931 | 588 |
| Planning activity | 377 | 550 |
| Population | 25,276 | 51,096 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 6/10 |
Comparison summary
Northcote reads as an energetic metro larger suburb where cafés and local life overlap; Reservoir is a lively metro larger suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by. Northcote sits closer to the city centre, whereas Reservoir is in a middle-ring position.
Northcote tends to lead on a quieter safety profile and schools and education options, while Reservoir stands out for housing affordability and parks and reserves. On housing, Northcote sits in a expensive band, compared with a well priced feel in Reservoir.
Northcote suits retirees and families more clearly, whereas Reservoir is the stronger match for investors and value-focused buyers.