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Living in Perth

Living in Perth, Western Australia

Beaches, sunshine and a strong economy - an honest look at the city BIG STEP calls home, for anyone weighing up where to land in Australia.

Living in Perth

The sunniest capital, and the city we call home

Perth is the capital of Western Australia - a relaxed, sun-drenched city of pristine beaches, wide rivers and one of the strongest regional economies in the country. It's also where BIG STEP is based, so we know the city, its suburbs and its job market firsthand.

Perth regularly ranks among the world's most liveable cities: less crowded and more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, with a laid-back pace of life that many newcomers say suits them perfectly.

Perth city and Elizabeth Quay at dusk
Why people choose Perth

Space, sunshine and a strong economy

A pristine Indian Ocean beach near Perth in the golden morning light, with turquoise water and Norfolk pines along the dune

Beaches on your doorstep

Cottesloe, Scarborough and dozens more - some of the best urban beaches in Australia, most a short drive from the city.

A resources-driven economy

Western Australia's mining, energy and resources sector underpins strong employment across engineering, trades and professional services.

More space for your money

Housing in Perth is generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, with more room to grow into for families.

Convenient time zone

Perth shares a time zone with much of Asia, which suits many international students, remote workers and businesses.

A genuine sense of community

A smaller, friendlier capital where newcomers often say it's easier to put down roots and make real connections.

Safe and family-friendly

Quiet, well-planned suburbs and a strong sense of safety make Perth popular with families and professionals alike.

Where to live

A few of Perth's popular areas

Perth's suburbs range from beachside to leafy and family-oriented to inner-city - here are a few worth knowing about as you start exploring.

A leafy, family-friendly residential street lined with gum trees in Perth's south-east suburbs, a train station in the distance

Gosnells & the South-East corridor

Family-friendly, well-connected by train to the city, and home to BIG STEP's own office - a practical, affordable base for many newcomers.

Historic limestone heritage buildings with iron-lace verandahs and a working harbour in Fremantle

Fremantle

Historic port city with a famous market, arts scene and relaxed café culture, at the mouth of the Swan River.

Modern family homes around a landscaped parkland lake in Perth's northern suburbs, the coast in the distance

Joondalup & the northern suburbs

Growing family suburbs with beaches, shopping and a major regional university campus.

The Perth city skyline of modern towers across the calm Swan River foreshore at golden morning

Perth CBD & inner city

Apartments and city living close to work, transport and Elizabeth Quay's riverside precinct.

Working in Perth

Industries with genuine demand

Western Australia's economy leans heavily on resources, but opportunities extend well beyond the mine site.

Mining, energy & resourcesEngineering & constructionHealthcare & aged careEducation & early childhoodAgriculture & regional rolesTrades (electrical, plumbing, carpentry)

Frequently asked questions

Is Perth a good city for new migrants?
Many newcomers find Perth an easier city to settle into than Sydney or Melbourne - it's less crowded, generally more affordable, and known for a friendly, welcoming community. The right city always depends on your goals, industry and lifestyle preferences.
What is the cost of living like in Perth?
Perth is generally more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne, particularly for housing. Costs still vary a lot by suburb and lifestyle - see our Cost of Living guide for a fuller picture across Australian cities.
Does living in Perth or regional WA help with my visa options?
Some visa pathways give extra weight to regional living or state nomination, and Western Australia runs its own nomination programs from time to time. Rules and occupation lists change regularly, so speak with a registered migration agent about what currently applies to your situation.
What's the weather like in Perth?
Perth has a Mediterranean climate - hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters - and is famously one of the sunniest capital cities in the world.

Thinking about Perth or Western Australia?

As a Perth-based practice, we can give you honest, local insight alongside your migration advice.

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See the Cost of Living guideBack to Discover Australia

This page is general information about life in Perth and Western Australia - it isn't legal or migration advice, and visa requirements change over time. Every situation is different, and visa decisions are always made by the Australian Government. For advice about your circumstances, please book a consultation.