Overall score
Penrith
69.0/100
Werrington Downs
37.3/100
Penrith for families and schools; Werrington Downs for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
Penrith
69.0/100
Werrington Downs
37.3/100
Crime rate
Penrith
154.3 / 1k
Werrington Downs
68.7 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Penrith
1,109
Werrington Downs
31
Population
Penrith
17,966
Werrington Downs
3,221
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 | Penrith | Werrington Downs |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 69.0/100 | 37.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 25.1/100 | 53.7/100 |
| Crime rate | 154.3 / 1k | 68.7 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 5 | 9 |
| Parks & reserves | 23 | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 280 | 28 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 30.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 1,109 | 31 |
| Planning activity | 60 | 2 |
| Population | 17,966 | 3,221 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 3/10 | 6/10 |
Put side by side, Penrith is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and Werrington Downs is a well-connected metro mid-sized suburb with a familiar suburban feel. Penrith sits in a middle-ring position, whereas Werrington Downs is further out with more breathing room.
Penrith tends to lead on parks and reserves and public transport access, while Werrington Downs stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile. Penrith generally means more approachable housing costs, while Werrington Downs leans toward more sought-after housing.
Families and households prioritising schools may find Penrith the better fit, while retirees and investors are more likely to prefer Werrington Downs.