Hickory at 1820 Janka is about 25% harder than hard maple at 1450. Both are among the hardest domestic species available.

Can I get hickory without the wild color variation?

Select-grade hickory has reduced variation, but it loses much of hickory's signature rustic character and costs more.

Which works better in small rooms?

Maple's uniform, light appearance makes small rooms feel larger. Hickory's dramatic variation can make small spaces feel busy.

Are they similarly priced?

Yes, hickory and maple are closely priced. Hickory character grades can be less expensive, while select grades of both are premium.

flooring

Hickory vs Maple: Bold Rustic vs Clean Contemporary Flooring (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated June 2, 2026|Sources & methodology

Hickory and maple are two of the hardest domestic flooring woods, but they create completely different rooms. Hickory's dramatic color variation and bold grain command attention, while maple's clean, light surface provides a calm, modern backdrop. Both deliver exceptional durability.

Hickory

Maple

Key Takeaways

Hickory and maple are two of the hardest domestic flooring woods, but they create completely different rooms.
Hickory's dramatic color variation and bold grain command attention, while maple's clean, light surface provides a calm, modern backdrop.
Both deliver exceptional durability.
Hickory is the toughest domestic floor with unbeatable character for rustic styles.
Maple is the hard, clean choice for contemporary homes that want a light, airy feel.

Property	Hickory	Maple
Hardness Janka	1820	1450
Density Lbft3	50	44
Price Range	$4.00-$8.00/sqft	$4.00-$7.50/sqft
Durability Class	Both exceptional	-
Color	Dramatic — creamy white to deep brown	Creamy white with subtle grain

Hickory

Pros

Hardest domestic flooring wood
Dramatic rustic character
Hides scratches and wear exceptionally well
Best for homes with dogs and kids

Cons

Color variation is dramatic and polarizing
Difficult to stain evenly
Can overwhelm small spaces

Maple

Pros

Clean, uniform contemporary look
Very hard and durable
Light color brightens rooms
Excellent for modern and minimalist designs

Cons

Shows dirt and scratches more on light surface
Yellows with UV exposure
Stains unevenly

Best Use Cases

Choose hickory for rustic, farmhouse, and high-activity homes where bold character and maximum durability matter. Choose maple for clean, modern spaces where a bright, uniform floor is the design foundation.

Verdict

Hickory is the toughest domestic floor with unbeatable character for rustic styles. Maple is the hard, clean choice for contemporary homes that want a light, airy feel.