Moving to Perth: Your comparison guide to cost, careers and community

Key takeaways:

• Perth’s economy is strong, offering affordability, many job opportunities and a decent cost of living
• The housing market in Perth is diverse, with a suburb for everyone and all budgets

If you’re considering a move to Perth, you’re not alone. In fact, according ot the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Western Australia is one of the most popular states for interstate movers, with more than 17% of its total population growth in the 12 months to September 2025 made up of interstate arrivals.

Australians are heading west for the sunshine, space, growing economy and career opportunities. But beyond the lifestyle appeal, many are asking two key questions: Can I afford it, and where should I live?

This guide provides the financial data, job market insights and practical advice you need to make relocating to Perth a smooth and financially smart transition.

Part 1: The Financial Advantage (Cost of Living Comparison)

The most compelling reason to move west is simple: your money goes further in Perth. Housing costs represent the single biggest difference between Perth and Australia's eastern capitals, and the savings can be substantial.

Housing and rental costs

Housing is where the most noticeable savings can be found. Rent prices in Sydney are more than 17% higher than in Perth, and buying a home is also considerably more affordable. For example, according to PropTrack, a one-bedroom apartment in Perth CBD costs significantly less at $450,000 than the same accommodation in Sydney CBD at $742,000. While the current price gap offers a significant entry advantage, the window for these savings may be narrowing as the market matures. Current Perth property predictions for the next 5 years suggest that after the median house price surpassed $1 million in late 2025, a structural scarcity cycle could drive values up by a further 66% by 2031, making it vital for interstate movers to act before the city sheds its status as an affordable outlier.

The gap between Perth and Sydney property prices means you can often secure a larger home with a garden and better amenities for the same budget that would buy you a modest apartment in Sydney's outer suburbs.

Overall consumer prices

Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Perth are generally more manageable. Consumer prices (excluding rent) tend to be lower in Perth than in Sydney, covering everything from groceries to dining out and entertainment.

Local purchasing power

When you factor in both income levels and living costs, local purchasing power in Perth is often better than in Sydney. According to the ABS, weekly earnings in Western Australia are slightly higher than in Sydney at $1,500 compared to $1,387. This means your salary stretches further, giving you more financial breathing room for savings, investments or simply enjoying the lifestyle that drew you to Western Australia in the first place.

Part 2: The Perth Job Market (What Drives WA)

Moving to Perth makes financial sense if you can secure good employment. Fortunately, Western Australia's economy is diverse and resilient, with several high-growth sectors actively seeking skilled workers.

Key industries and employment sectors

Perth's job market is supported by several major industries:

Mining and resources remain the backbone of WA's economy. The sector offers high-paying roles not just in remote locations but also in Perth-based corporate offices, engineering firms and support services. Employment in WA's mining industry reached a new peak in 2024, according to the WA government, marking eight consecutive years of employment growth.

If you have experience in project management, engineering, geology, law or finance with a resources focus, Perth offers many opportunities.

Healthcare and social assistance are some of the fastest-growing sectors in WA. In February 2025, Jobs & Skills data showed that “Health Care and Social Assistance” in WA employed about 236,200 people and was the largest employing industry in the state.

With an ageing population and continued infrastructure investment, demand for healthcare professionals – from specialists to allied health workers and aged care staff – continues to rise.

Professional, scientific and technical services are thriving in Perth. This broad sector includes consulting, accounting, legal services, engineering and IT. Many companies supporting the mining sector need these specialised services, creating a robust professional services ecosystem.

Construction and infrastructure are experiencing sustained growth. According to the WA industry profile, as at February 2025, construction employment in WA stood at about 155,200 people and had grown by 7.5% over the previous year. Major projects across Perth and regional WA have created strong demand for project managers, engineers, tradespeople and construction professionals.

Financial services and other opportunities

The finance and accounting sector is also in high demand across Perth. Banks, financial planning firms, accounting practices and corporate finance teams are actively recruiting. If you're moving from Sydney or Melbourne with experience in financial services, your skills are highly transferable and sought after in Perth's market.

The key message is clear: Perth is not a one-industry town. Whether you work in healthcare, professional services, technology or finance, there are genuine opportunities waiting.

Part 3: Where to Settle (Suburbs Snapshot)

Once you’ve decided Perth is right for you, the next step is choosing where to live. The good news is that Perth offers diverse neighbourhoods to suit different lifestyles, family needs and budgets. Here's a snapshot of some of the best suburbs to consider when relocating to Perth.

Young professionals and lifestyle seekers

Subiaco is the go-to suburb for young professionals who want an inner-city lifestyle with excellent connectivity. Known for its trendy cafes, boutique shopping and proximity to Perth CBD, Subiaco offers the urban energy many eastern staters are accustomed to, but at a much more reasonable price, with a median price of $1.85 million for houses and $716,000 for units.

Just north of the CBD, Leederville has developed a reputation as a boutique, culturally rich neighbourhood. With its independent cinemas, wine bars and weekend farmers' markets, Leederville attracts creative professionals and couples who value accessibility and character. The suburb’s property market remains competitive yet more affordable than comparable inner-city areas in Sydney or Melbourne, with a median house price of $1.51 million and a median unit price of $722,500.

Known as Perth’s cultural heart, Northbridge is best known for its nightlife, restaurants and creative energy. It offers a lively mix of apartments and townhouses, ideal for singles and professionals who want to live within walking distance of the CBD. Due to its central location, there are very few houses on offer in Northbridge. But apartment prices remain relatively accessible, with a median unit price of $533,750, making it an attractive entry point for those seeking city living without Sydney-level prices.

Families looking for affordability and amenities

Harrisdale has become increasingly popular with young families. Located in Perth's southern corridor, it offers new housing developments, excellent parks and sporting facilities, and good access to schools. It strikes a strong balance between affordability and family-friendly amenities, with a median house price of $880,000 reflecting strong demand yet remaining accessible compared to inner Perth suburbs.

Willetton is highly sought after for its schools and strong sense of community. Families are drawn to the suburb's established feel, tree-lined streets and excellent public school catchment zones. It's an option for parents prioritising education and community connection, with a median house price of $1.3 million.

Byford offers an affordable, laidback lifestyle for families willing to embrace a semi-rural feel. With larger block sizes and newer estates, Byford appeals to buyers looking for space and value. The suburb is growing rapidly, with improving infrastructure and services following population growth. Its median house price of $710,000 highlights its position as one of Perth’s more budget-friendly options for both first home buyers and families.

Coastal living

Scarborough has been transformed in recent years into a buzzing beachside community. With a revitalised foreshore, excellent schools and a strong mix of cafes and restaurants, Scarborough offers sun, surf and a genuine sense of community. It's popular with families and professionals who prioritise coastal living without sacrificing urban convenience. 

Property values reflect this demand, with a median house price of $1.3 million and a median unit price of $750,000, positioning Scarborough as one of Perth’s most desirable coastal markets.

Mullaloo is a family-friendly coastal suburb that delivers a quieter, more relaxed beach lifestyle than Scarborough. With good local schools, safe swimming beaches and a tight-knit community, Mullaloo is ideal for families looking for a coastal haven. Homes here offer excellent value for their size and proximity to the ocean, with a median house price of $1.29 million, appealing to buyers wanting a balance of lifestyle and long-term value.

Part 4: The Relocation Checklist (Your Action Plan)

Moving interstate is a major logistical exercise. A clear, phased approach will reduce stress and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

10+ weeks before the move

Set a realistic budget. Factor in removalist costs (which can range from $5,000 to $10,000+ for interstate moves from the east coast), temporary accommodation if needed and initial setup costs such as utility connections and essential furniture.

Research suburbs thoroughly. Use online resources, visit Perth if possible and talk to locals or colleagues who have made the move. Understanding commute times, school catchment zones and local amenities will help you narrow your search.

Book removalists early. Interstate removalists are in high demand, especially during peak periods (summer and end of financial year). Secure quotes early and confirm your booking well in advance.

8–6 weeks before the move

Begin decluttering and packing. Moving interstate is the perfect opportunity to downsize. Sell, donate or discard items you no longer need. Start packing non-essential items room by room.

Notify important parties. Inform your employer, children's schools, insurance providers and utility companies of your move. Arrange mail redirection.

Research schools and childcare. If you have children, start the enrolment process for WA schools or childcare centres. Some sought-after schools have waiting lists, so early action is essential.

2–4 weeks before the move

Arrange utilities and services. Set up electricity, gas, water and internet connections for your new Perth home. Try to make sure these are activated before or not long after you arrive.

Prepare an essentials box. Pack a box with toiletries, important documents, phone chargers, medications and a few changes of clothes. This box should travel with you, not on the removalist truck.

Update your documentation. You'll need to transfer your driver's licence and vehicle registration to WA within three months after becoming a resident of WA. 

The crucial step: secure finance pre-approval

Before you start house hunting in Perth, the most important step is securing finance pre-approval. Perth's property market can move quickly, particularly in sought-after suburbs. Having pre-approval means you can act decisively when you find the right property, without the risk of losing out to competing buyers while you scramble to arrange finance.

A finance pre-approval gives you:

• Clarity on your borrowing capacity so you know exactly what you can afford in Perth's market
• Confidence to make offers quickly when you find the right home
• Stronger negotiating position with sellers who know you're a serious, ready-to-proceed buyer
• Peace of mind that your finance is sorted before the stress of the move itself.

Pre-approval is particularly important if you're selling a property in Sydney or Melbourne and buying in Perth. Timing the sale and purchase across two states requires careful financial planning, and a mortgage broker with experience in interstate relocations, like those at Loan Market, can help you navigate the process smoothly.

Make your move to Perth with confidence

Relocating to Perth offers an opportunity to improve your financial position, enjoy a different lifestyle and access a strong job market. But the key to a successful move is preparation, particularly on the financial side.

Before you commit to removalists, resign from your job or enrol the kids in new schools, get your finance sorted. A financial check-up and loan pre-approval should be your first step, not your last. With the right financial plan in place, your transition to Perth can be smooth, confident and financially smart.

Ready to make your move? Contact a Loan Market broker in Welshpool to discuss your borrowing capacity and secure pre-approval for your new WA home.