Overall score
Parklea
39.5/100
The Ponds
67.7/100
Parklea vs The Ponds, NSW suburb comparison
Parklea for schools; The Ponds for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
ParkleaThe Ponds
Crime rate
Parklea
21.9 / 1k
The Ponds
11.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Parklea
27
The Ponds
230
Population
Parklea
3,684
The Ponds
16,315
Metric leadParklea 1The Ponds 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 | Parklea | The Ponds |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 39.5/100 | 67.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 47.3/100 | 49.9/100 |
| Crime rate | 21.9 / 1k | 11.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 8 | 9 |
| Parks & reserves | 1 | 18 |
| Public transport stops | 12 | 84 |
| Walkability | 20.0/100 | 88.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 27 | 230 |
| Planning activity | 2 | 12 |
| Population | 3,684 | 16,315 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Parklea reads as a well-connected metro mid-sized suburb with a familiar suburban feel; The Ponds is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by. Parklea sits further out with more breathing room, whereas The Ponds is in a middle-ring position.
Parklea pulls ahead on a calmer planning outlook, whereas The Ponds is the better pick for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer The Ponds, while Parklea remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.