Overall score
Monterey
47.5/100
Rockdale
61.6/100
Monterey vs Rockdale, NSW suburb comparison
Monterey for retirees and families; Rockdale for value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
MontereyRockdale
Crime rate
Monterey
59.6 / 1k
Rockdale
53.9 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Monterey
77
Rockdale
241
Population
Monterey
4,619
Rockdale
15,475
Metric leadMonterey 3Rockdale 8across 11 compared metrics
Livability profile
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Quick verdicts
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
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 | Monterey | Rockdale |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 47.5/100 | 61.6/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 21.5/100 | 14.4/100 |
| Crime rate | 59.6 / 1k | 53.9 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 12 | 22 |
| Parks & reserves | 3 | 6 |
| Public transport stops | 53 | 99 |
| Walkability | 38.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 77 | 241 |
| Planning activity | 4 | 17 |
| Population | 4,619 | 15,475 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 9/10 | 7/10 |
Comparison summary
Monterey reads as an energetic metro mid-sized suburb where cafés and local life overlap; Rockdale is a lively metro established suburb with dining and everyday convenience close by.
On the data, Monterey is stronger for housing affordability and a calmer planning outlook; Rockdale answers with a quieter safety profile and parks and reserves.
Retirees and investors may find Monterey the better fit, while families and value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Rockdale.