Overall score
Maitland Vale
34.6/100
Rutherford
61.7/100
Maitland Vale vs Rutherford, NSW suburb comparison
Maitland Vale for retirees and investment; Rutherford for families and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
Maitland ValeRutherford
Crime rate
Maitland Vale
94.6 / 1k
Rutherford
95.4 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Maitland Vale
1
Rutherford
375
Population
Maitland Vale
281
Rutherford
13,091
Metric leadMaitland Vale 4Rutherford 5across 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 retireesMaitland Vale
- Best for familiesRutherford
- Best for investmentMaitland Vale
- Best for best valueRutherford
- Best for best schoolsRutherford
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 | Maitland Vale | Rutherford |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 34.6/100 | 61.7/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 83.2/100 | 76.1/100 |
| Crime rate | 94.6 / 1k | 95.4 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | — | 3 |
| Parks & reserves | — | 4 |
| Public transport stops | 6 | 262 |
| Walkability | 9.0/100 | 85.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 1 | 375 |
| Planning activity | 8 | 57 |
| Population | 281 | 13,091 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 2/10 |
Comparison summary
Maitland Vale reads as a slower-paced smaller community with open surrounds; Rutherford is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby. Maitland Vale sits more regionally self-contained, whereas Rutherford is in a middle-ring position.
Maitland Vale pulls ahead on housing affordability and a calmer planning outlook, whereas Rutherford is the better pick for a quieter safety profile and public transport access. On housing, Maitland Vale sits in a expensive band, compared with a affordable feel in Rutherford.
Choose Maitland Vale if you are weighing retirees and investors; lean toward Rutherford for families and value-focused buyers.