Wondering where to live in Perth if you’re moving here for work or with the family? Or perhaps you’ve recently arrived and you’re still deciding on the best suburbs in Perth for you? The Western Australia capital has plenty of good places to call home, with different benefits for different lifestyles. We hope this information will help you decide!
#1 Applecross
Applecross is one of the riverside suburbs in Perth with wide-open spaces and plenty of city convenience. There are mansions overlooking the Swan River on the north end, and more affordable houses in the south. It’s a lovely spot for families, with plenty of parks and green spaces. These include Heathcote Reserve, which has city views and a pirate-themed play area.
Applecross is just seven kilometres from central Perth, making it ideal for families who work in the city or want to stay close to the urban buzz. This area provides a balanced lifestyle that combines natural beauty and modern conveniences. You can take a walk by the river, grab a meal at a restaurant, or shop in the village.
#2 Claremont
Among other benefits, Claremont offers easy access to some of Perth’s top private schools. Prestigious schools such as Christ Church Grammar and Scotch College for boys, and MLC, PLC, St Hilda’s and Iona for girls, are just a short drive away. The area boasts a rich history, too, with access to the Claremont Jetty, perfect for boating and fishing; a jetty was first built on the bank of the Swan River near here in the 1890s. Cottesloe Beach is just a five-minute drive, too, for some seaside relaxation. The area also has private hospitals for healthcare services.
#3 Fremantle
“Freo” to locals, Fremantle is a suburb that might surprise you if you think Perth is all about new houses and modern malls. This area in the west is rich in colonial and maritime history, giving it a vibe that attracts everyone from families to artists. The main street has coffee shops, boutiques and family-owned restaurants and pubs. There’s also still a working port here, and many of the goods imported from across the seas find their way to the stalls of the Fremantle Markets that are open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
As far as housing goes, the area features Victorian townhouses and cottages, alongside modern family units and apartments that are more affordable. Though it’s only about a 30-minute drive from Perth’s city centre, Fremantle feels like a town of its own.
#4 Mount Lawley
Mount Lawley is just north of the city centre and is a popular suburb in Perth for its leafy streets and cultural offerings. Beaufort Street is famous for shopping, with lots of independent stores. It’s only 10 minutes from downtown Perth and offers various housing options. Perth College, a well-known school for girls, is also located here, making it a good choice for families moving to Perth.
#5 Cottesloe
Many think Cottesloe, on the city’s west coast is one of the best suburbs in Perth – and the beach is a big reason why! There’s a relaxed and friendly seaside vibe here, and even if it’s a little chilly for swimming or sunbathing, there are plenty of shops and cafés to check out. There are schools and lots of housing options, from old cottages to modern homes. It’s a bit pricier than other Perth suburbs, but many think it’s worth it for the beach and the community.
#6 Mount Helena
If affordability is a key factor for you in choosing where to live in Perth, Mount Helena is a great option. Around 35km from the city centre, house prices here are lower than in the more central suburbs, and there are lots of family-sized plots available. And you get plenty of bang for your buck too. There are shopping areas for all the basics, and lots of parks, playgrounds and sports facilities. The kids can play outside, ride their bikes and enjoy the fresh air away.
Living in Mount Helena provides you with a nice balance. You get the calm and space of a suburb but you can still get to Perth easily when needed. It’s a family-friendly place without the high prices and noise of the city.
#7 Subiaco
Another place that’s often ranked among the best suburbs in Perth is Subiaco, just a few kilometres west of the city centre. This area attracts professionals, families and students alike and has plenty of public transport options, including buses, trains and bike lanes, making it easy to get around. The proximity to Perth’s CBD means it’s ideally placed for people working in a wide range of industries, or even those thinking about a career change.
Subiaco isn’t the cheapest suburb in Perth, but it does offer a high standard of living. Community involvement is highly valued here, and locals actively participate in various community initiatives – across arts, crafts, food and sport – making it easy for expats to feel at home.
#8 Leederville
Leederville is just a few miles north of Perth’s CBD and is another handy spot for those working in the city. It’s also a diverse area for young professionals, families and students alike.
Renting here is usually cheaper than adjoining Subiaco, which is a nice bonus. Getting around is also easy thanks to trains, buses and bike lanes. For families, there are good schools in the area such as North Perth Primary School and Perth Modern School. It’s also close to Curtin University and the University of WA, making it nicely placed for students.
Leederville feels safe and secure, and there are a lot of cultural events, fairs and festivals that bring people together and celebrate diversity.
#9 South Perth
South Perth is where city life meets riverside tranquillity. Along with easy water access, you get a friendly community that’s welcoming to expats, and everything you might need for daily life. For those who enjoy eco-friendly living, there are walking and biking paths to get around easily, and it’s ideally located to the CBD for anyone working there. Perth Zoo and the Royal Perth Gold Club are both here too.
This suburb is something of an education hub in Perth, too. There are good schools and universities nearby, including Wesley College and Curtin University, making it a nice choice for families. Overall, South Perth combines the convenience of city life with the peacefulness of riverside living.
#10 West Perth
It’s easy to get around West Perth, with plenty of train stations, bus routes and even bike paths if you prefer cycling. Whatever mode of transport you choose, it’s simple to get to different parts of the city from here – in fact, you can walk here from the CBD as it’s just on the western fringe.
West Perth also marks the start of pretty Kings Park, one of the best suburbs in Perth for a walk in the outdoors. (Try the 240+ steps of Jacob’s Ladder for a challenge!)
As for housing, there’s everything from modern serviced apartments to old-style cottages in the area. You’ll find some good cafés and restaurants in the area, plus the likes of Scitech for kids’ adventures and Watertown for outlet shopping. Nearby schools and universities include West Leederville Primary School, the UWA School of Business and the Central Institute of Technology.
Tips for finding where to live in Perth
It’s always wise to be prepared, so here are some recommendations for finding where to live in Perth, and the best suburbs in the city that will fit your expat lifestyle perfectly.
- Seek advice from locals and peers. Get an authentic perspective on Perth by reaching out to locals and fellow expats. Join online forums or attend local events to engage with those already living there.
- Use online resources. Explore neighbourhood review websites and crime maps. These platforms provide valuable information about Perth’s safety, amenities, and overall vibes.
- Conduct a test run. Before committing to a long-term lease, try experiencing the area firsthand with an Airbnb or short-term rental. You might want to stay first in one or two of the most popular suburbs of Perth. This way, you can evaluate where to live in Perth that will suit your particular lifestyle.
Now that you’ve got some ideas on the best suburbs in Perth and where to live, read about great indoor and outdoor activities in the city!
