Overall score
The Rocks
50.3/100
Ultimo
55.1/100
The Rocks for retirees and schools; Ultimo for investment and value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Overall score
The Rocks
50.3/100
Ultimo
55.1/100
Crime rate
The Rocks
449.3 / 1k
Ultimo
76.3 / 1k
Nearby amenities
The Rocks
285
Ultimo
328
Population
The Rocks
629
Ultimo
7,410
Desirability pillars scored 0–100 vs comparable suburbs
Clearer edge on lifestyle fit (score gap ≥ 3)
Who each suburb suits — composite scores out of 100
Side-by-side scores for every compared metric.
Exact figures for every metric — winner highlighted in bold.
| Category | The Rocks | Ultimo |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 50.3/100 | 55.1/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 1.1/100 | 4.0/100 |
| Crime rate | 449.3 / 1k | 76.3 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 15 | 25 |
| Parks & reserves | 6 | 9 |
| Public transport stops | — | 23 |
| Walkability | 45.0/100 | 60.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 285 | 328 |
| Planning activity | 9 | 17 |
| Population | 629 | 7,410 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
The Rocks reads as a lively metro smaller community with dining and everyday convenience close by; Ultimo is a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby.
The Rocks tends to lead on a calmer planning outlook, while Ultimo stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Choose The Rocks if you are weighing retirees; lean toward Ultimo for families and investors.