Rose Hill and Iffley Ward was created in 2002, combing three areas with distinct features. It is one of the most stratified population areas in Oxford.

The southern area of the ward is Rose Hill estate, built in the 1930s, with expansions in the 1940s and 1970s in two phase of industrial expansion. It is home to about 50% of the ward's residents mostly in older terraced housing or later semi-detached homes. It is an area of high deprivation: in 2004 it ranked third most deprived areas (SOAs) but had improved to 10 and 11th by 2007. A significant portion of the population is under 25.

The Iffley Triangle Nature Reserve, situation between Donnington Bridge and the Southern Bypass, is well-known for containing the Snake's Head fritillary, a rare, protected plant best seen in April.

Iffley Borders lies on the eastern side of the ward, between Rose Hill and Iffley Village itself. Its profile is markedly different, comprising mostly employed residents in professions, management, or clerical employment.

Iffley Village itself is one of the wealthiest and oldest neighbourhoods in Oxford. It clusters round the Norman Church of St Mary's of some architectural merit. Housing comprises some period cottages, detached homes with gardens, within short walks to open ground near the Thames and towpath.