Overall score
Sydney
66.4/100
Melbourne
58.2/100
Sydney vs Melbourne suburb comparison (NSW vs VIC)
Sydney for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
SydneyMelbourne
Crime rate
Sydney
450.7 / 1k
Melbourne
334.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Sydney
4,006
Melbourne
2,453
Population
Sydney
16,667
Melbourne
54,941
Metric leadSydney 5Melbourne 42 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 | Sydney | Melbourne |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 66.4/100 | 58.2/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 1.4/100 | 1.2/100 |
| Crime rate | 450.7 / 1k | 334.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 20 | 11 |
| Parks & reserves | 16 | 19 |
| Public transport stops | 343 | 400 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 4,006 | 2,453 |
| Planning activity | 285 | 640 |
| Population | 16,667 | 54,941 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Sydney (NSW) is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, while Melbourne (VIC) is a well-serviced metro larger suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Sydney pulls ahead on housing affordability and schools and education options, whereas Melbourne is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves.
On balance, retirees and families are more likely to prefer Sydney, while Melbourne remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.