The index ranks cities according to personal security, infrastructure security, health security and digital security. Sydney and Melbourne share the same rankings in the latter three categories. But Sydney's edge on the issue of personal security is enough to give the Harbour City a five-spot edge in the rankings.
Sydney outranked Melbourne on two measures, including personal security (86.8 to 89.1) and health security (79.3 to 79.8). The two cities were equal on infrastructure security (93.5) and digital security (89.4).
Is Melbourne a safe place to live? According to the Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Safe Cities Index 2021 Melbourne is the 8th place (up from 10th place last year) safest city in the world.
Sydney prides itself on safety, deep culture, and friendly communities. It is considered the fifth safest city in the world and Australia's safest city. Like any other city, there is crime, just not as much. It is no secret that Sydney is a major city with a population of 5.2 million.
If you've never visited Australia before and are looking for in-your-face classic tourist activities and Instagrammable heaven, then Sydney might be the best choice. But if you're looking for a destination where you have to scratch the surface a little to discover some rich culture, give Melbourne a try.
Diverse culture
The Victorian capital has people from across 140 nations living harmoniously together. Whereas Sydney is all about business, Melbourne is all about community. Study shows that the people of Melbourne are friendlier than those of Sydney.
The 2016 ABS 'Victims of Crime' survey suggests Victoria has the highest incidence of crimes against the person, including robberies, assaults and car jackings, and Melbourne's violent crime rates are the highest in Australia.
Both cities offer a fantastic lifestyle, if you can afford to live in them. I personally prefer Sydney, because of the sunnier weather and beaches. I can see how some people would think Melbourne is better than Sydney though, particularly with the cool cafes, nightlife and arty vibes.
Most dangerous city in Australia? According to data aggregating site Numbeo's international crime index, Australia's most dangerous city is Darwin, while this site rates Canberra as our safest city.
Melbourne is a developed economy and safe city
90 percent of Australia's population lives in urban areas, the second highest level globally, second only to Argentina. Melbourne ranks among the safest cities in the Asia-Pacific region.
Melbourne is consistently voted one of the most liveable cities in the world, and with good reasons. It's safe, clean, and full of things to do for men, women, students, and families.
Con: It's expensive
As the second most expensive city in Australia (Sydney takes the top spot), living in Melbourne will cost you. From rent to groceries, you can expect to pay more here than other capitals in the country.
Sydney wins for its transport, roads, beaches, icons and overall attractiveness. Melbourne is good for culture, sport, food, nightlife and day trips. All in all, I really think it comes down to personal preference. They're both fantastic cities in their own right.
Living in Melbourne
Melbourne is considered by some to be the best city to live in Australia, and has even been ranked as the world's most livable city more than once. It's home to a thriving live music scene, late-night bars and laneways dotted with cafés and coffee shops.
Northern Territory is the top region by homicide rate in Australia. As of 2021, homicide rate in Northern Territory was 8.1 per 100,000 population. The top 5 regions also includes Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland.
The number of criminal incidents recorded by Victoria Police in the year to 30 September 2022 was 343,982, down 3.6% from 356,920 incidents recorded in the same period last year.
Top 10 burglary hotspots – Greater Melbourne
Canstar's analysis found that the 3335 postcode, which includes the outer suburbs Plumpton and Rockbank, had the highest burglary rates per 1,000 people in Greater Melbourne.
Sydney has more fun-filled, family-friendly and renowned attractions. Melbourne does win when it comes to cultural attractions. However, its Federation Square and Flinders Street Station can't compete with Sydney's world-renowned landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
However, the city has generally played second fiddle to Melbourne in terms of culture. If there's a new play, show or musical coming to Australia, it will most probably have a run in Melbourne before Sydney (if it makes it there at all).
We prioritise natural beauty and beaches over food and culture. Melbourne doesn't have anything that rivals Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the stunning beaches.
Canberra is the happiest capital of Australia, according to research.