Overall score
Wollongong
69.5/100
Geelong
69.4/100
Wollongong vs Geelong suburb comparison (NSW vs VIC)
Wollongong for families and schools; Geelong for retirees and investment.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
WollongongGeelong
Crime rate
Wollongong
154.3 / 1k
Geelong
664.0 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Wollongong
657
Geelong
1,403
Population
Wollongong
20,446
Geelong
5,811
Metric leadWollongong 6Geelong 32 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 retireesGeelong
- Best for familiesWollongong
- Best for investmentGeelong
- Best for best schoolsWollongong
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 | Wollongong | Geelong |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 69.5/100 | 69.4/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 42.4/100 | 41.5/100 |
| Crime rate | 154.3 / 1k | 664.0 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 9 | 10 |
| Parks & reserves | 13 | 13 |
| Public transport stops | 192 | 51 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 657 | 1,403 |
| Planning activity | 65 | 222 |
| Population | 20,446 | 5,811 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 8/10 | 9/10 |
Comparison summary
Across states, Wollongong is a beachside established suburb where the coast sets the tone, whereas Geelong is a beachside mid-sized suburb where the coast sets the tone.
On the data, Wollongong is stronger for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile; Geelong answers with schools and education options and nearby cafés and amenities.
Wollongong suits families and households prioritising schools more clearly, whereas Geelong is the stronger match for retirees and investors.