Perth is the largest city in Western Australia and is popular with expats, especially those employed in the mining or construction industries. Perth offers a warm climate, great amenities, and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Although more remote than Australia's eastern seaboard cities, Perth offers all major services and amenities. Cost-wise, it tends to be cheaper than Melbourne and Sydney, too. So here's what you need to know about your housing options if you're looking to settle in Perth.
Perth's neighborhoods
Home to more than 2.3 million people, Perth has traditionally attracted immigrants from England, New Zealand and Italy. However, more recently, there has been an increase in new arrivals from South Africa, India and the Philippines. Perth is a laid-back city that blends natural beauty with a thriving culture, food and drink scene, and there's a neighborhood to suit every taste and lifestyle. Here's a breakdown of some of Perth's best neighborhoods and the median weekly rent for a house or apartment:
Fremantle
If you're into history, culture, and a laid-back beach vibe, Fremantle is the place for you. A thirty-minute drive south of the CBD, 'Freo' is a lively port city that's home to some of Perth's best seafood restaurants, vintage shops, and craft breweries. The iconic are a must-visit for local produce and handmade goods. Weekly rent for a house is AUD 825 (USD 389), and for an apartment, it is AUD 650 (USD 421).
Northbridge
Known as the city's entertainment capital, this inner-city suburb sits directly north of the CBD. It has a bustling bar and club scene and is also home to Perth's Chinatown. So, if you're looking for a more urban vibe, Northbridge is it! Northbridge is a melting pot of different cultures and boasts some of Perth's best entertainment, dining, fashion-forward boutiques, and vintage stores. It will cost you AUD 675 (USD 438) per week to rent an apartment here.
Subiaco
Subiaco is a popular choice for families and young professionals. Five minutes northwest of the city center, 'Subi' is known for its tree-lined streets, cute cafes, and boutique shops. This culturally rich destination blends a relaxed village atmosphere and historic charm with vibrant style and energy. It's also home to iconic Subiaco Oval, a historic sporting ground that also hosts concerts and events. The rent per week for a house is AUD 1,000 (USD 648), and for an apartment, it is AUD 650 (USD 421).
Leederville
This hip and trendy neighborhood is popular with students and creatives and is known for its street art, independent cinemas, and live music venues. The main strip is bustling with cafes, bars, and restaurants, and it's the dynamic heart of the city's inner northwest. Rent per week for a house in Leederville is AUD 720 (USD 467), and AUD 650 (USD 421) for an apartment.
Cottesloe
If you're after a more affluent beach lifestyle, Cottesloe is the place to be. Consistently ranked as one of the wealthiest suburbs in Australia, this coastal beauty is situated 14 kilometers southwest of the CBD and is home to Perth's famous Cottesloe Beach. Perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, the area is also known for its high-end restaurants and stunning coastal homes. Renting a house will cost AUD 1,275 (USD 826) per week, and renting an apartment will cost AUD 750 (USD 486).
The rental market in Perth
According to , the rental market in 2025 remains tough for Perth's renters, but there may be some relief in sight. Since the pandemic, the rental market in Perth has been very tight, with demand for rental properties exceeding supply due to an increase in people moving to Perth. Between August 2022 and July 2024, the citywide vacancy rates stayed below 1%. However, in 2025, it hit over 2% for the first time since 2020 (a rate of 2.5% to 3.5% is considered a balanced market). Due to demand outstripping supply, rents have been rising, making . This represents a significant shift from the past, when Perth was considered relatively affordable compared to other capital cities. So, currently, the situation favors landlords over renters, but with a little persistence and flexibility, you should still be able to find accommodation in Perth that suits your needs.
Like most Australian cities,ÌýPerth has a range of individual houses or apartments for rent. Apartments are usually part of a residential complex, where you will find features such as security services, a concierge, and often a swimming pool and a gym. However, if you are planning to study in Perth or have arrived on a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) in Australia, you may consider sharing a house or a flat to save money and share costs with another person or persons. Great websites for finding rental accommodation in Perth ¾±²Ô³¦±ô³Ü»å±ðÌý,Ìý,Ìý, and .
Lease conditions in Perth
The conditions of flat shares in Perth can vary, offering opportunities for both short-term and long-term stays. The process is considered easier, as you are 'interviewed' by the existing housemates, and it allows you to get a feel for the house, skipping formal applications and lengthy searches. It is also a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to the city.
In Perth, rent is typically paid every two or four weeks by bank transfer. Generally,Ìýwhen signing a contract or lease to rent a property in Perth, you will also need to pay one month's bond as a security deposit, as well as two or four weeks of rent up-front. A lease on a rental property in Perth is typically for six months or one year. However, it is sometimes possible to negotiate leases of longer or shorter duration. Please note that some rentals are unfurnished, while others are fully furnished and may or may not include appliances such as a washing machine, dryer, or refrigerator. It's essential to double-check what's included before signing the lease. It's also a good idea to check if pets are allowed, as some properties in Australia do not permit cats and dogs.
Short-term rental options in Perth
If you need temporary accommodation in Perth while you wait for your ideal home to become available, why not consider renting an Airbnb for an extended period? Some hosts are willing to offer month-long rentals, which are beyond the typical short-term stays. Even if the host doesn't advertise this option on their listing, you can still approach them and propose the possibility of an extended stay. This option streamlines the hassle of arranging multiple short-term rentals, making it more convenient for both of you.
Good to know:
As a tenant in Perth, you are responsible for paying for your , electricity, gas, and internet/cable costs.
Student accommodation in Perth
If you are moving to Perth to study, you will find a variety of student accommodation options to choose from. There are five universities in Perth: Curtin University, The University of Western Australia, Murdoch University, Edith Cowan University, and The University of Notre Dame. Universities offer on-campus accommodation, ranging from dorm rooms to self-contained apartments. Meanwhile, private companies operate purpose-built student accommodations close to universities, which feature communal areas, study spaces, and 24/7 security.
Sharing a flat or house with other students is also a popular option that allows students to split the costs of rent and utilities while living with friends or fellow students. Meanwhile, also provide a unique opportunity to experience Australian culture and practice English language skills by living with a local family in their home.
There are approximately , and the rental market is highly competitive. Therefore, it is advisable to secure short-term accommodation before leaving your home country. It's also a good idea to start investigating long-term rental opportunities as well. According to , renting a room in Perth will set you back between AUD 200 (USD 130) and AUD 450 (USD 292) per week, while the cost of renting a house varies by size and location but can range from AUD 440 (USD 285) to AUD 750 (USD 486) per week.
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