Overall score
Mackay
56.8/100
Rockhampton City
54.9/100
Mackay vs Rockhampton City, QLD suburb comparison
Rockhampton City for families and schools.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
MackayRockhampton City
Crime rate
Mackay
68.1 / 1k
Rockhampton City
159.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Mackay
385
Rockhampton City
269
Population
Mackay
4,026
Rockhampton City
2,059
Metric leadMackay 7Rockhampton City 2across 9 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
- Best for familiesRockhampton City
- Best for best schoolsRockhampton City
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 | Mackay | Rockhampton City |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 56.8/100 | 54.9/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 22.1/100 | 19.6/100 |
| Crime rate | 68.1 / 1k | 159.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 6 | 9 |
| Parks & reserves | 7 | 10 |
| Walkability | 80.5/100 | 79.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 385 | 269 |
| Population | 4,026 | 2,059 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 2/10 | 1/10 |
Comparison summary
Mackay reads as a regional hub with its own identity and everyday convenience; Rockhampton City is a regional smaller community that feels self-contained without feeling remote.
Mackay tends to lead on housing affordability and a quieter safety profile, while Rockhampton City stands out for parks and reserves.
On balance, families and value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Mackay, while Rockhampton City remains a solid alternative depending on what matters most day to day.