Overall score
Port Macquarie
57.6/100
Buderim
77.3/100
Port Macquarie vs Buderim suburb comparison (NSW vs QLD)
Port Macquarie for schools; Buderim for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Port MacquarieBuderim
Crime rate
Port Macquarie
86.7 / 1k
Buderim
13.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Port Macquarie
139
Buderim
142
Population
Port Macquarie
47,693
Buderim
31,430
Metric leadPort Macquarie 3Buderim 7across 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesBuderim
- Best for familiesBuderim
- Best for investmentBuderim
- Best for best valueBuderim
- Best for best schoolsPort Macquarie
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 | Port Macquarie | Buderim |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 57.6/100 | 77.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 60.2/100 | 76.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 86.7 / 1k | 13.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 6 | 2 |
| Parks & reserves | 37 | 59 |
| Public transport stops | 653 | 78 |
| Walkability | 53.0/100 | 84.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 139 | 142 |
| Planning activity | 239 | — |
| Population | 47,693 | 31,430 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 4/10 | 8/10 |
Comparison summary
Port Macquarie (NSW) is a regional larger suburb with local services and a more relaxed pace, while Buderim (QLD) is an energetic metro larger suburb where cafés and local life overlap. Port Macquarie sits more regionally self-contained, whereas Buderim is in a middle-ring position.
On the data, Port Macquarie is stronger for schools and education options and public transport access; Buderim answers with housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Buderim, while Port Macquarie remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.