Overall score
Darlinghurst
60.7/100
The Rocks
50.3/100
Darlinghurst vs The Rocks, NSW suburb comparison
Darlinghurst for investment and value; The Rocks for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
DarlinghurstThe Rocks
Crime rate
Darlinghurst
208.4 / 1k
The Rocks
449.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Darlinghurst
590
The Rocks
285
Population
Darlinghurst
10,615
The Rocks
629
Metric leadDarlinghurst 8The Rocks 11 tiedacross 10 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for retireesThe Rocks
- Best for familiesThe Rocks
- Best for investmentDarlinghurst
- Best for best valueDarlinghurst
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 | Darlinghurst | The Rocks |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 60.7/100 | 50.3/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 4.6/100 | 1.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 208.4 / 1k | 449.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 24 | 15 |
| Parks & reserves | 13 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 55 | — |
| Walkability | 75.0/100 | 45.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 590 | 285 |
| Planning activity | 67 | 9 |
| Population | 10,615 | 629 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Put side by side, Darlinghurst is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby, and The Rocks is a lively metro smaller community with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Darlinghurst tends to lead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, while The Rocks stands out for a calmer planning outlook.
Families and investors may find Darlinghurst the better fit, while retirees are more likely to prefer The Rocks.