Overall score
Parramatta
62.5/100
Penrith
69.0/100
Parramatta vs Penrith, NSW suburb comparison
Parramatta for retirees; Penrith for families and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
ParramattaPenrith
Crime rate
Parramatta
245.3 / 1k
Penrith
154.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Parramatta
1,662
Penrith
1,109
Population
Parramatta
30,211
Penrith
17,966
Metric leadParramatta 5Penrith 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)
- Best for retireesParramatta
- Best for familiesPenrith
- Best for investmentPenrith
- Best for best valuePenrith
- Best for best schoolsPenrith
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 | Parramatta | Penrith |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 62.5/100 | 69.0/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 14.2/100 | 25.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 245.3 / 1k | 154.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 16 | 5 |
| Parks & reserves | 24 | 23 |
| Public transport stops | 215 | 280 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 1,662 | 1,109 |
| Planning activity | 70 | 60 |
| Population | 30,211 | 17,966 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 3/10 |
Comparison summary
Parramatta reads as a well-serviced metro larger suburb with plenty happening nearby; Penrith is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Parramatta tends to lead on schools and education options and parks and reserves, while Penrith stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile. On housing, Parramatta sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Penrith.
Choose Parramatta if you are weighing retirees; lean toward Penrith for families and investors.