Overall score
Semaphore
53.9/100
West Lakes
64.3/100
Semaphore vs West Lakes, SA suburb comparison
Semaphore for schools; West Lakes for retirees and beach lifestyle.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
SemaphoreWest Lakes
Crime rate
Semaphore
92.9 / 1k
West Lakes
94.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Semaphore
366
West Lakes
439
Population
Semaphore
2,749
West Lakes
6,768
Metric leadSemaphore 3West Lakes 6across 9 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesWest Lakes
- Best for beach lifestyleWest Lakes
- Best for best valueWest Lakes
- Best for best schoolsSemaphore
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 | Semaphore | West Lakes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 53.9/100 | 64.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 42.8/100 | 47.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 92.9 / 1k | 94.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | — | 1 |
| Public transport stops | 14 | 44 |
| Walkability | 91.0/100 | 85.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 366 | 439 |
| Planning activity | 38 | 147 |
| Population | 2,749 | 6,768 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Comparison summary
Semaphore is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone, while West Lakes is a coastal mid-sized suburb with an easy, sea-led rhythm.
Semaphore pulls ahead on a quieter safety profile and walkability, whereas West Lakes is the better pick for housing affordability and public transport access.
Semaphore suits households prioritising schools more clearly, whereas West Lakes is the stronger match for retirees and people chasing a beach lifestyle.