Overall score
Hurstville
60.6/100
Rockdale
61.6/100
Hurstville vs Rockdale, NSW suburb comparison
Hurstville for schools; Rockdale for retirees and families.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
HurstvilleRockdale
Crime rate
Hurstville
119.3 / 1k
Rockdale
53.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Hurstville
541
Rockdale
241
Population
Hurstville
31,162
Rockdale
15,475
Metric leadHurstville 5Rockdale 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)
- Best for retireesRockdale
- Best for familiesRockdale
- Best for best schoolsHurstville
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 | Hurstville | Rockdale |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 60.6/100 | 61.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 15.9/100 | 14.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 119.3 / 1k | 53.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 20 | 22 |
| Parks & reserves | 18 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 227 | 99 |
| Walkability | 100.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 541 | 241 |
| Planning activity | 23 | 17 |
| Population | 31,162 | 15,475 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Comparison summary
Hurstville reads as an energetic metro larger suburb where cafés and local life overlap; Rockdale is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
Hurstville pulls ahead on housing affordability and schools and education options, whereas Rockdale is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and a calmer planning outlook.
Hurstville suits households prioritising schools more clearly, whereas Rockdale is the stronger match for retirees.