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Balmain East vs Birchgrove

Two neighbouring Sydney suburbs, 1.1 km apart, on the same open data. Balmain East scores higher on 4 of 10 measures.

Balmain EastBirchgrove
Active9274
Safety2858
Wealth8397
Value8391
Parks10096
Cafés1362
Transit9466
Green space6682
Active & healthy7478
Schools nearby (OSM)9253
Median rent$617/wk $700/wk
Median house price (Jan–Mar 2026)$2,793,000$2,793,000
House sales this quarter3636
Population1,9003,228
Full profile Balmain East in full Birchgrove in full

Scores are percentiles across all 422 Sydney suburbs: 100 is the best in the city, 50 is mid-table. Highlighted figures lead the row. How we rank suburbs.

Is Balmain East safer than Birchgrove?

Birchgrove scores higher for safety (recorded crime per 1,000 residents) between the two, based on official crime statistics.

Which is cheaper, Balmain East or Birchgrove?

Balmain East and Birchgrove have the same median house price.

Should I live in Balmain East or Birchgrove?

Balmain East scores higher on 4 of 10 measures across safety, activity, value, parks and cafés — see the full breakdown below, or the complete profile for Balmain East or Birchgrove.

Updated October 2026. Compare other Sydney suburbs →