Get a property report and suburb profile for any property in Rutherford

Join the 2 million Australians* who use our services every year.

Geo Page

Rutherford suburb profile

Rutherford is a growing suburb located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, approximately 5km west of Maitland. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Rutherford offers a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The suburb is well-serviced by local amenities, including shopping centres, schools, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive option for families and professionals. With its proximity to the New England Highway, Rutherford provides convenient access to both Newcastle and the Upper Hunter, enhancing its appeal as a residential hub. The suburb's blend of modern conveniences and community spirit continues to draw new residents.

Rutherford property market performance

Current median dwelling price$666,250Past 3 months

Property growth+3.7%Past 12 months

Rutherford's property market has shown notable growth, with house values increasing by 12.7% over the past 12 months, reaching a median price of $800,000. In contrast, the unit market has been static with no notable sales activity recently.

The area saw 82 houses sold, compared to only 6 units, indicating a stronger demand for houses. Houses spent a median of 17 days on the market, slightly quicker than units at 21 days, reflecting brisker house market activity.

In the rental sector, average rents for houses have increased by 3.3% to $620, whereas unit rents have risen by 4.4% to $470, showing balanced interest in both rental sectors.

HousesUnits
Median price
Past 3 months
$790KN/A
Change in value
Past 12 months
12.7%-5.3%
Sold
Past 3 months
837
Median days on market
Past 12 months
1625
Average rent
Past 12 months
$625$470
Change in rent
Past 12 months
4.2%4.4%

5 year median price trend for houses and units

Access homes before they're listed for sale

Build a buying brief and get first access to properties that aren't yet on the market.

OpenAdvantage

Rutherford demographics

Rutherford, located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, is a suburb that offers a blend of suburban comfort and regional charm. With a population of 13,091 and a median age of 35, Rutherford is a community that appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The suburb's proximity to Maitland and the broader Hunter Valley region provides residents with access to a range of amenities, including shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities, while still maintaining a peaceful, community-oriented atmosphere.

The housing landscape in Rutherford is diverse, with a significant portion of properties owned outright (25.5%) or with a mortgage (38.5%), indicating a stable and established community. Additionally, 36% of properties are rented, offering flexibility for those not ready to commit to home ownership. This mix of ownership types reflects a balanced demographic, with both long-term residents and newcomers contributing to the suburb's dynamic character.

Family life is a cornerstone of Rutherford, with 39.9% of households being couple families with children and 36.4% being couple families without children. One-parent families also make up a notable 22% of the community, highlighting the suburb's inclusive nature. The median total household income of $1,475 per week suggests a comfortable standard of living, with many residents employed in the local industries and services that support the region's economy. Overall, Rutherford offers a welcoming environment with a strong sense of community, making it an attractive place to live for a wide range of people.

Rutherford infrastructure, key developments and investment opportunities

Rutherford continues to benefit from its role as a rapidly expanding hub of industrial estates, shopping centres, and community and sporting facilities, which supports local employment and underpins steady housing demand.[4] Ongoing growth around the New England Highway corridor and proximity to Maitland Airport enhance connectivity and lifestyle options, which may improve the suburb’s long-term desirability for both owner-occupiers and investors.[4]

Local education infrastructure, including established schools such as Rutherford Public School, supports family appeal and contributes to consistent demand for nearby residential properties.[9] With no major new transport lines or headline infrastructure overhauls announced recently, current development activity is more incremental than transformative, but continued commercial and service expansion is likely to gradually support property values over time.[4]

Rutherford rental market trends

The rental market is stable, with house rents rising 3.3% over the past year to $620 per week, while unit rents have increased 4.4% to $470 per week. Rutherford continues to attract attention due to its affordability, appealing to both renters and investors seeking steady returns in a growing community.

Suburbs near Rutherford

Some popular suburbs near Rutherford include:

How does Rutherford compare to nearby suburbs?

  • Median house prices: Rutherford’s median house price is 6.8% higher than Telarah’s.
  • House price growth: Over the past 12 months, house prices in Rutherford have grown 1.6% higher than in Telarah.
  • Unit price growth: Property prices in nearby Maitland have risen 61.4% more than in Rutherford over the past year.
  • Selling speed for houses: Properties in Rutherford are selling 42.9% faster than in Farley.

Common questions about Rutherford

  • Is Rutherford a nice place to live?

    Rutherford is a delightful suburb that offers a harmonious blend of suburban comfort and regional charm, making it a wonderful place to call home. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rutherford is particularly appealing to families, thanks to its strong community spirit and family-friendly amenities. The suburb boasts a relaxed vibe, with plenty of green spaces and parks for outdoor activities, making it ideal for those who enjoy a peaceful lifestyle. Its proximity to Maitland and the broader Hunter Valley region ensures residents have access to a variety of shopping centres, schools, and recreational facilities, enhancing the overall livability of the area.

    For families, Rutherford provides a nurturing environment with established schools and a range of housing options that cater to both homeowners and renters. The suburb's safety and community-oriented atmosphere make it a reassuring choice for raising children. While Rutherford may not offer the bustling nightlife of a city centre, it compensates with a strong sense of community and a quieter, more relaxed pace of life. The trade-off for this tranquility is the need to travel a bit further for major entertainment and cultural activities, but the convenience of the New England Highway ensures easy access to Newcastle and the Upper Hunter.

    Rutherford's ongoing development, particularly around the New England Highway corridor, promises to gradually enhance the suburb's desirability. While there are no major new transport lines or infrastructure overhauls on the horizon, the steady expansion of commercial and service facilities supports local employment and contributes to a stable housing market. This makes Rutherford an attractive option for both owner-occupiers and investors. Ultimately, Rutherford's combination of community spirit, accessibility, and family-friendly amenities makes it a charming and appealing place to live for a diverse range of residents.

    Down Pointer
  • Is it expensive to live in Rutherford?

    Living in Rutherford can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you compare it to other areas in New South Wales. The median house price stands at $800,000, which is quite significant. If you're looking to rent, the average rent for houses is around $620 per week. Unfortunately, there isn't much data on unit prices, but the average rent for units is about $470 per week, indicating a more affordable option for renters.

    When you compare these housing costs to the average wage in New South Wales, which is approximately $108,000 per year, it becomes clear that a substantial portion of income would need to be allocated to housing. The median total household income in Rutherford is $1,475 per week, which suggests that while the suburb is not the most expensive, it does require careful financial planning to manage the cost of living effectively.

    Overall, if you're thinking of living in Rutherford, it's important to weigh the housing costs against your income to ensure it fits within your budget. While it offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to Sydney's inner suburbs, the housing prices and rents still demand a significant financial commitment.

    Disclaimer: To assess whether a suburb is considered expensive, we’ve looked at mortgage and rental costs as a proportion of the average local salary. That said, everyone’s financial situation is different, so it's important to consider your own circumstances when deciding which suburb is right for you.
    Down Pointer
  • Is Rutherford a good place to invest?

    Rutherford is showing promising signs as a potential investment hotspot, particularly for those interested in the housing market. Over the past year, the suburb has experienced a notable 12.7% increase in median house values, indicating strong demand and a healthy growth trajectory. This kind of growth suggests that the area is becoming increasingly attractive to buyers, which can be a positive signal for investors looking for capital appreciation.

    While the median unit values have remained stable with no change over the last 12 months, the rental market tells a slightly different story. Rental prices for houses have increased by 3.3%, and units have seen a 4.4% rise in rents. This suggests a steady demand for rental properties, which can provide a reliable income stream for investors. The growth in rental prices, especially for units, might indicate a growing interest in more affordable living options within the suburb.

    Overall, Rutherford presents a balanced investment opportunity. The significant rise in house values points to strong capital growth potential, while the steady increase in rental prices for both houses and units offers a dependable rental yield. For investors seeking a mix of growth and income, Rutherford could be a suburb worth considering.

    Down Pointer

Choose the right real estate agents in Rutherford

Currently, there are 76 real estate agents working in Rutherford—but not all agents deliver the same results. The right agent could make a huge difference to your final sale price.

Only 5 out of these 76 agents sold 38.9% of all properties in Rutherford over the past year. Choosing one of these top-performing agents means tapping into proven expertise for a better sale outcome.

Real estate agents in Rutherford typically charge a commission of 2.38% to 3.25%. Negotiating a fair commission rate and the right structure can motivate your agent to work even harder, helping you sell for more and potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

Not quite ready to sell?

icon

Property report

Suburb and property report

Completed by independent professional experts not a computer.
icon

OpenEstimates

Digital estimate for your property

Compare your property to three recent sales to get a digital estimate.
icon

Navigate the market like a pro

Navigate the market

Get an understanding of the market signals you should keep an eye on.