Perth really is something special. As Australia’s sunniest capital, it serves up gorgeous beaches, welcoming locals, and a laid-back lifestyle that’s hard not to love. It’s no surprise that more and more families are making the move and calling this place home.
I’ve been in and out of Perth more times than I can count, and I can tell you firsthand, it’s one of the easiest cities to fall in love with.
The lifestyle here is hard to beat: you’ve got sunny weather most of the year, some of the best beaches in the country, and a cost of living that’s still more manageable compared to cities on the East Coast.
But here’s what I always tell my clients: choosing the right suburb matters just as much as deciding to move in the first place.
I’ve seen people thrive simply because they picked the right area for their lifestyle, and I’ve also seen the opposite happen.
From my experience handling moving houses, the people who plan, especially when it comes to choosing the right suburb, always have a smoother transition. Perth has a wide range of options.
Now, when we talk about the best suburbs in Perth to live in, we’re not just picking names at random. There’s real thought behind it. Every suburb on this list has been chosen for a reason.
These are the places that truly stand out, and once you see what they offer, it’s easy to understand why the best suburbs in Perth are such popular choices.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Suburb in Perth
When you’re choosing the best suburbs in Perth, it is not about picking a desired postcode but a place that suits your budget, lifestyle and long-term objectives. The following are the main points to consider:
- Budget and Property Prices: Your budget will significantly influence your choice. Find out the average price of houses and rental rates to determine which ones are within your budget.
- Distance to CBD and Transport Options: Commute time might be a deal breaker for you. One of the best areas in Perth near the CBD or with easy access to public transport might be the most suitable.
- Schools, Amenities, and Safety: When you are relocating with kids, search for places with good schools, parks, hospitals, and shopping malls.
- Lifestyle Preferences (Coastal vs Urban vs Suburban): There are many lifestyle options in Perth. Your personal preferences and daily routine will help you identify the best suburbs to live in Perth.
Keep yourself organised until you make your final decision. A moving house checklist can guarantee that you do not overlook any vital step when moving into one of the best suburbs in Perth.
Best Suburbs in Perth for Students
When seeking the best suburbs in Perth for students, look for areas close to universities, with good transportation, affordable living, and student accommodation available.
Some of the best areas in Perth are around major institutions.
Crawley
- Population: ~4,000–5,500
- Cost of Living: Approx. AUD $550/week
- What it’s Known For: Proximity to the University of Western Australia (UWA), riverside living, student-friendly environment
Crawley is generally considered one of the best suburbs in Perth for students because of its direct access to the University of Western Australia. Campus Perth and other nearby university accommodation facilities make it a favourite among local and international students.
➜ Move with our Crawley Removalists
Murdoch
- Population: ~5,000
- Cost of Living: Approx. AUD $550/week
- What it’s Known For: Major education and healthcare hub, including Murdoch University and Fiona Stanley Hospital
Murdoch is among the best suburbs Perth students prefer to live in, especially for students of Murdoch University. Education and healthcare are the main components of the suburb, and commuting to the suburb is convenient. Yugo and other purpose-built student accommodation are available to students.
Claremont
- Population: ~9,200
- Cost of Living: Moderate to high
- What it’s Known For: Prestigious schools, proximity to UWA, upscale yet student-accessible location
Claremont is known as one of the best suburbs of Perth for students because of its proximity to a variety of educational institutions, including UWA’s Claremont campus. It is an expensive place compared to other student areas, but it offers good facilities, transport, and a secure, well-maintained environment.
➜ Move with our Claremont Removalists
Best Coastal Suburbs in Perth
Perth is famous for its stunning coastline, and some of its best suburbs offer direct access to beautiful beaches, vibrant cafés, and outdoor activities.
If you are seeking the most flowing beach-style living, below are three of the generally ranked as the best areas in Perth for coastal living:
Scarborough
- Population: ~47,000 (2021 estimate)
- Cost of Living: High (approx. AUD $700–$900/week for housing)
- What it’s Known For: Surf beach, nightlife, beachfront dining, outdoor lifestyle
Scarborough is a popular destination for surfing, swimming, and coastal walks, only 14 km from the CBD. It has attractions such as The Sandbar Scarborough Beach Bar & Kitchen and El Grotto, which enhance its popularity. Its combination of coastal lifestyle, entertainment, and ocean views has earned Scarborough a reputation as one of the best Perth suburbs.
Cottesloe
- Population: ~8,000
- Cost of Living: High (premium coastal suburb)
- What it’s Known For: White sand beaches, sunsets, relaxed coastal charm
Cottesloe is among the best suburbs in Western Australia because of its popular hangouts, such as Cottesloe Beach Hotel and Il Lido Italian Canteen. It remains one of the best neighbourhoods in Perth because it offers easy access to the city and stunning sunset views.
➜ Move with our Cottesloe Removalists
Fremantle
- Population: ~31,900 (LGA, 2021 census)
- Cost of Living: Moderate to high
- What it’s Known For: Historic port city, beaches, arts and café culture
Fremantle (or simply “Freo”) is among the best suburbs of Perth when it comes to a blend of beach culture and lifestyle. It offers access to nearby beaches such as South Beach. Cafe culture is very strong in the suburb, with popular cafes like Little Creatures Brewery and Bread in Common attracting both locals and visitors.
Affordable Suburbs to Consider
Outer and developing areas usually stand out for strong value for money. They are not only cheaper but also offer strong growth prospects, making them among the best suburbs in Perth for first-home buyers and investors.
Armadale
- Population: ~13,000–14,000
- Cost of Living: Affordable (median house price ~$630,000; rent ~$600/week)
- What it’s Known For: Affordable housing, strong rental demand, growth corridor
Armadale is one of the best suburbs Perth buyers would consider for affordability and investment opportunities. It has high returns compared to other regions, with a median house price of approximately $630,000 and rental yields above 5 percentage points. The suburb has registered double-digit annual growth, demonstrating strong demand driven by low prices and population growth. Armadale is one of the most suitable locations for purchasing entry-level properties in Perth, and it continues to benefit from ongoing infrastructure improvements and urbanisation.
➜ Move with our Armadale Removalists
Gosnells
- Population: ~20,000+
- Cost of Living: Affordable (average house price ~$400,000–$600,000 range)
- What it’s Known For: Budget-friendly homes, transport links, steady growth
Gosnells is turning out to be one of the best suburbs of Perth if you’re seeking affordability without compromising on accessibility. The suburb has been stable in its development, and property prices have been on a steady rise, with rental yields around 4.8%. It is also situated along major transport routes, which contributes to its attractiveness to commuters to Perth CBD. With demand for affordable housing remaining high, Gosnells is regarded as one of the best long-term suburbs in Perth, as its development continues and the number of buyers supports its further growth.
Rockingham
- Population: ~38,000+
- Cost of Living: Moderate (median house price ~$800,000; rent ~$620/week)
- What it’s Known For: Coastal lifestyle, affordability compared to inner suburbs, strong growth
Rockingham offers a rare combination of affordability and lifestyle, making it one of the best suburbs in Western Australia. It is a little more expensive than Armadale or Gosnells. Still, it offers access to beaches and a more relaxed coastal lifestyle at a lower price than the inner-city coastal suburbs. The median house price is approximately $800,000, with rental returns between 4-5% and strong annual growth exceeding 16% in certain areas.
➜ Move with our Rockingham Removalists
Best Suburbs in Perth for Safety and Comfort
When considering the best suburbs in Perth, low crime rates and strong community settings are important factors. According to statistics from the WA Police Force, there are various suburbs with the lowest crime rates, making them some of the best neighbourhoods in Perth to live peacefully.
Iluka
- Population: ~4,500
- Cost of Living: High (approx. AUD $750–$1,000/week for housing)
- What it’s Known For: Coastal lifestyle, low crime rate, quiet residential streets
Iluka is often rated among the best suburbs in Perth and has one of the lowest crime rates, at 1.33 crimes per 100 locals, according to Canstar. Active neighbourhood networks and adequately lit residential areas contribute to safety. Residents are within easy reach of medical services, with nearby facilities like Joondalup Health Campus, which enhances the overall security and comfort of the suburb.
Burns Beach
- Population: ~6,500
- Cost of Living: High (approx. AUD $700–$950/week)
- What it’s Known For: Beachfront living, modern estates, family-friendly environment
Another resident chooses to live in Burns Beach to ensure their safety, given its low crime rate of 2.34 incidents per 100 people. Its recent growth and high-quality community structure help secure safer streets and a friendlier environment. Its peaceful streets and excellent neighbourhoods make it among the best suburbs in Perth for families and professionals.
Winthrop
- Population: ~6,000
- Cost of Living: Moderate to high (approx. AUD $650–$850/week)
- What it’s Known For: University proximity, family-friendly streets, low crime rate
Winthrop has been ranked among the best areas in Perth, with a crime rate of about 13 crimes per 1,000 residents, supported by community involvement, suburban planning, and the availability of nearby medical institutions such as Fiona Stanley Hospital. These characteristics ensure that Winthrop is among the best suburbs in Western Australia when you consider a secure and stable environment to live in.
Best Suburbs in Perth with Unique Attractions
When you want to find out the best suburbs in Perth that offer more than just homes, some places are special because of their attractions, cultural landmarks, and a spirited local experience.
These suburbs offer a combination of lifestyle, entertainment, and tourism appeal, making them among the best places to live in Perth.
Fremantle
- Population: ~8,200 (suburb)
- Cost of Living: Moderate to high (median rent ~$360/week)
- What it’s Known For: Historic port, markets, beaches, arts and culture
Fremantle is home to landmarks such as the Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Round House, and Fremantle Art Centre, and is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. Bathers Beach and South Beach are also available in the suburb, making it all the more attractive.
➜ Move with our Fremantle Removalists
Northbridge
- Population: ~1,400
- Cost of Living: Moderate to high
- What it’s Known For: Nightlife, dining precinct, cultural hub
Northbridge is one of the best areas in Perth for entertainment and nightlife. It lies adjacent to the CBD and is a cultural hub, home to theatres, art galleries, restaurants, and bars. Major events and festivals take place in the suburb, making it one of the best suburbs in Perth for social and cultural experiences.
Subiaco
- Population: ~9,200
- Cost of Living: High
- What it’s Known For: Shopping, dining, markets, proximity to the city
Subiaco boasts upmarket shopping streets, open-air markets, and a vibrant cafe scene, making it popular among young working people and families. Its closeness to the CBD and Kings Park is also a plus, with easy access to green spaces and outdoor activities.
➜ Move with our Subiaco Removalists
Moving to Perth from Another State
Relocating to Western Australia can be a thrilling experience if you are to settle in one of the best suburbs in Perth. But the cost of relocation across state lines is more hectic than a local relocation. The following are the most important issues to consider before leaping.
- Cost Differences: The cost of living in Perth can vary significantly compared to other major Australian cities, such as Sydney or Melbourne. By researching these differences, you will be able to determine which suburb suits your financial situation and lifestyle expectations.
- Job Market: Perth’s job market is worth knowing before making a move. The prominent industries in the local economy include mining, construction, healthcare, and education. Securing employment can make settling into one of Perth’s best suburbs much smoother.
- Lifestyle Adjustment: Relocating to Perth often involves a lifestyle change. Perth is a different experience from the East Coast cities in Australia.
- Planning Your Interstate Move: Moving across the country involves more logistics than a typical relocation. When you are relocating out of state, plan it out. Review a step-by-step guide to planning an interstate move, including timeframes, costs, and key activities.
These factors will help you to make better decisions on your move to the best suburbs of Perth.
Take the First Step Forward
The best suburbs in Perth cater to a wide range of lifestyles and priorities. There’s no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best suburb to live in Perth.
The key is to choose a suburb that aligns with your personal needs. What works for one person might not work for you, so taking the time to weigh your options carefully can make all the difference in your overall experience.
And when it comes time to make the move, having the right support matters. That’s where The Smooth Movers come in.
With experience handling relocations of all sizes, we can help take the stress out of your move—whether you’re relocating locally or coming from interstate.
From careful packing to efficient transport, having professionals by your side makes settling into one of the best suburbs in Perth much easier.
Ready to make your move? Get in touch with us today and take the first step toward a smooth, hassle-free relocation.
