Overall score
Ultimo
55.1/100
Waterloo
62.8/100
Ultimo vs Waterloo, NSW suburb comparison
Ultimo for retirees and families; Waterloo for value.
See which suburb leads on livability, safety, schools, and lifestyle.
Head to head
Visual comparison
UltimoWaterloo
Crime rate
Ultimo
76.3 / 1k
Waterloo
89.5 / 1k
Nearby amenities
Ultimo
328
Waterloo
538
Population
Ultimo
7,410
Waterloo
16,379
Metric leadUltimo 3Waterloo 71 tiedacross 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 | Ultimo | Waterloo |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 55.1/100 | 62.8/100 |
| Housing (desirability) | 4.0/100 | 6.3/100 |
| Crime rate | 76.3 / 1k | 89.5 / 1k |
| Schools & preschools | 25 | 19 |
| Parks & reserves | 9 | 20 |
| Public transport stops | 23 | 75 |
| Walkability | 60.0/100 | 100.0/100 |
| Nearby amenities | 328 | 538 |
| Planning activity | 17 | 34 |
| Population | 7,410 | 16,379 |
| SEIFA (IRSAD decile) | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Comparison summary
Ultimo reads as a well-serviced metro mid-sized suburb with plenty happening nearby; Waterloo is a well-serviced metro established suburb with plenty happening nearby.
Ultimo tends to lead on schools and education options and a calmer planning outlook, while Waterloo stands out for housing affordability and a quieter safety profile.
Retirees and families may find Ultimo the better fit, while value-focused buyers are more likely to prefer Waterloo.