Complete Guide To The Best Suburbs In Perth For Students In 2026

Tired of kangaroos interrupting your morning coffee? Dive into Perth's suburban wonderland, where the search for the perfect picket fence is as thrilling as a game of Aussie rules football. Discover the safest havens, the budget-friendly gems, and the neighbourhoods where saying 'G'day' is more than just a greeting. It's not just about homes; it's about finding your slice of paradise in this Australian suburban mosaic. Because in Perth, the suburbs aren't just places to live; they're experiences. 

Perth is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you prefer the coastal breeze, the urban buzz, or the natural beauty. With a diverse range of Perth suburbs, each with its unique charm and character, you can find the ideal place to call home.Amber will help you explore 20 of the finest areas in Perth to live in based on affordability, lifestyle, transit, education, and healthcare services. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly suburb, a student hotspot, or a trendy enclave, you will find it in Perth. Read on to discover the 20 best suburbs in Perth for living and why they stand out from the rest.

Why Choose Perth Suburbs?

So, you're considering modern and convenient accommodations in Perth suburbs? Buckle up for a ride down under, where even the kangaroos envy the affordable real estate. The best place to live in Perth is like having your cake and eating it, too. Just with more sunshine and fewer worries. Every suburb in the list of best suburbs to live in Perth offers spacious and comfortable living options, with plenty of room for your family, pets, and hobbies. You can enjoy the benefits of a large backyard, a swimming pool, or a garage without breaking the bank. Plus, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peace of your neighbourhood. Here's the lowdown on why the best suburbs in Perth are the real MVPs:

1. It is home to several great universities and around 45,000 international students. Perth is ranked 36th in Australia’s Best Student Cities by QS.
2. Compared to Sydney and Melbourne, Perth is more affordable to live in, with an average cost of living of about AU $1,841.8 per month, making it easier to find convenient and affordable student apartments near universities with platforms like amber.
3. The city also has excellent public transport connectivity through highways, suburban railways, Transperth SmartRider cards, and a Free Transit Zone in the CBD.

Things to Keep in Mind While Choosing a Suburb in Perth

Choosing the right suburb in Perth involves balancing budget, safety, lifestyle, and convenience. With many good and best neighbourhoods to live in Australia, a few key factors can help narrow your choice.

1. Location: Always consider proximity to your workplace and commute times via car or public transport. Reliable bus routes, train lines, and proximity to the CBD are also important factors. The outer suburbs are often more affordable but come with longer travel times.

2. Neighbourhood amenities: These play a very big role. Highly rated primary and high schools,  parks, playgrounds, pools, sports, easy access to hospitals, medical centres, pharmacies increase a suburb’s charm and convenience.

3. Lifestyle preferences: Students should look for a suitable lifestyle. The beach suburbs offer a relaxed coastal vibe, riverside areas provide scenic water activities, leafy suburbs feature greenery and calm surroundings, while urban suburbs deliver buzz, arts, and culture.

4. Budget considerations. Research median house prices, rents, and overall living costs, including utilities and daily expenses. Students should ensure student accommodation costs fit their budget and explore tips to manage the cost of living in Perth, Australia. 

Top 20 Suburbs in Perth 

Welcome to the wild world of Perth's pockets of affordability! Hold onto your hat (if you have one) as we journey through the land of reasonable rents and sensible spending. So, buckle up and get ready to explore these 20 nicest suburbs, where your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief. These best suburbs in Perth aren't just easy on the pocket; they're practically doing the cha-cha with affordability. 

Top Suburbs for Safety and Comfort

1. Swanbourne

Population: 4,059
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 19 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: The University of Western Australia
Known For: Soft white sand

Swanbourn, a coastal suburb in Perth known for its soft white sand, stands out as one of the best and safest places to live in the city. To maintain a low crime rate, community policing through local patrols and well-lit public parks enhances resident security. Neighbourhood watch programs actively involve families. In terms of economic vitality, Swanbourne aligns with prosperity, one of the best suburbs in Perth, with an average income of AU$108,311 per year. 

2. City Beach

Population: 6,609
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 20 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Curtin University, Edith Cowan University
Known For: Beautiful beaches

City Beach is said to be one of the safest suburbs in Perth. It stands out for various reasons, but it's mainly known for its stunning beaches. Renowned as one of Perth's safest and best suburbs, it's highly sought after for its beachside living. Active neighbourhood watch groups monitor areas, and regular police foot patrols occur. Street lighting improvements and community events promote vigilance. With an average income of AU$164,305 per year, City Beach boasts a thriving community and a high standard of living, making it stand out as one of the best suburbs in Perth. 

3. Churchlands

Population: 3,387
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate:  19 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia
Known For: Proximity to Herdsman Lake and Edith Cowan Reserve

Churchlands is renowned as one of the safest and nicest suburbs in Perth and is known for its Proximity to Herdsman Lake and Edith Cowan Reserve, consistently ranking among the best areas to live in Perth. Prestigious schools integrate safety education, and local council CCTV installations cover key areas. Churchlands is also a hub of community spirit, with an average income of AU$10,000 per month, making it the best area to live in Perth Australia. 

Top Budget-Friendly Suburbs

1. Joondalup

Population:1,60,000
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 51 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Edith Cowan University
Known For: Shopping and entertainment

Joondalup is one of the best suburbs in Perth that combines urban convenience with community warmth. It is known for its affordable shopping and entertainment, making it Perth's major shopping centre. City-wide CCTV surveillance and increased police presence in public spaces. It's also known for its beautiful parks and a large lake, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.

2. Bentley

Population: 9,051
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 111 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Bentley University
Known For: Water sports

Bentley stands out as one of the premier and best suburbs in Perth, celebrated for its compelling attributes and historical prominence, and is famous for its water sports activities.Campus Perth is the nearest student housing in Perth. University proximity leads to campus security extensions and regular patrols. With an average income of AU$9000 per month, Bentley combines history, modernity, and a touch of luxury, and remains one of the most affordable suburbs in Perth. 

Top Suburbs with Unique Attractions

1. Cottesloe

Population: 7,500
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: Under 20 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Curtin University, Perth Creative College, and the University of Western Australia
Known For: Surfing

Tucked away in Perth's collection of neighbourhoods, Cottesloe shines as a top-notch place to call home, renowned for its laid-back beach vibe and Surfing. Beachfront patrols by local police and community volunteer watches are safety measures taken with enhanced public space lighting and signage. Beyond its artistic allure, Cottesloe boasts an average yearly income of AU$1,55,343, reflecting its prosperity and making it one of the best suburbs in Perth. 

2. Fremantle

Population:31,390
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 435 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia (UWA), Murdoch University, and UWA Business School
Known For: Architectural Heritage

Fremantle, affectionately known as 'Freo,' is a lively port city within the Perth metropolitan area, celebrated for its historical significance and known for its Architectural Heritage. Harbor area CCTV networks and nightlife police deployments. Community ranger programs for tourist safety. Apart from this, the average income in Fremantle is around AU$11,812 per month. This is one of the best suburbs in Perth. 

3. Northbridge

Population: 15,795
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 2075 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: SAE Perth Campus, University of Western Australia (UWA)
Known For: Multicultural precinct

Northbridge, one of the good places to live in Perth, is known for its multicultural precinct and culturally rich atmosphere. Its cultural richness and lively ambience attract those in search of an affordable yet vibrant place to live. Night-time entertainment precinct patrols and extensive CCTV coverage. ID scanning at venues to curb incidents. With an average income of AU$1,865 per week, Northbridge has become one of the nicest suburbs in Perth.

Best Suburbs for Students

1. Murdoch

Population: 5000
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 20 per 1000 residents
Known For: Major healthcare facilities such as Fiona Stanley Hospital

Murdoch stands out as one of the best suburbs in Perth and is known for its Fiona Stanley Hospital. Some of the best student accommodations here areYugo The Boulevard, The Switch Perth City Central. University hospital security teams and campus-community liaison patrols. Smart streetlights with motion sensors. Moreover, with an average income of AU$100,000 per year, it is one of the nicest suburbs.

2. Crawley

Population: 5,500
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: Under 20 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia (UWA), Murdoch University, and UWA Business School
Known For: Diverse Population

Crawley, celebrated as one of the best areas to live in Perth, Australia, boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience along with its diverse population.Murdoch University Village, Campus Perth, is one of the few accommodations here. University shuttle services and 24/7 campus security. Student safety apps integrated with police. With an average income of AU$13,812 per month, Crawley is known as one of the best places to live in Perth as it embodies the epitome of comfortable living, where nature meets luxury.

Top Upscale Suburbs

1. Applecross

Population: 7,228
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 5 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Murdoch University
Known For: River views and upscale living

Applecross stands as one of the most prestigious and best suburbs to live in Perth for families, renowned for its tranquil, upscale environment and spectacular views of the Swan River. To maintain safety, some measures are taken, such as enhanced riverfront lighting and community neighbourhood watch programs. Active resident reporting via local apps. This suburb is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat from the city's bustle while still enjoying the benefits of high-end living.

2. Nedlands

Population: 5,000
Cost of Living: AU$500 per week
Crime rate: 14 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia
Known For: Quiet leafy streets

Nedlands is known as the best place to live in Perth WA, characterised by its broad, tree-lined streets and substantial homes. It is well known for its quiet leafy streets. Nedlands maintains a low crime rate through low break-in rates supported by council CCTV and police-community liaisons. It's favoured by academics and medical professionals due to its proximity to major hospitals and the University of Western Australia. The closest property in Nedlands isHostel G Perth.

3. Subiaco

Population: 18,811
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 20 per 1000 residents
Nearby University: University of Western Australia
Known For: Markets and cafes 

Subiaco, a vibrant and culturally rich suburb, offers a unique blend of lively atmosphere and depth, making it a standout choice among Perth's residential areas. Well-known for its bustling local markets and cozy cafes, Subiaco's urban charm is complemented by its proximity to the Central Business District (CBD) and the University of Western Australia. Safety measures taken are University-adjacent security patrols and property crime reduction initiatives.

Top Artistic Suburbs

1. Mount Lawley

Population: 11,328 residents
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 82 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Edith Cowan University (ECU), Mount Lawley Campus
Known For: Colonial style art-deco

Nestled in the heart of Perth, it is known for its Colonial-style art deco. Mount Lawley stands out as one of the best suburbs in the region, celebrated for its unique charm and vibrant atmosphere. The University-adjacent security patrols and property crime reduction initiatives are taken to reduce the crime rate. Not just a haven for leisure, this suburb is also marked by a flourishing community with an average income of AU$9,321 per month, reflecting its economic vitality.  This area is included in the list of popular areas for student accommodation in Perth. 

2. Leederville

Population: 6,000 residents ‍
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 137 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia ‍
Known For: Eclectic shops and nightlife

Leederville is a dynamic and creative suburb known for its eclectic mix of boutique shops, cafes, and lively nightlife. It's highly accessible via different public transport options and is just within walking distance from the city centre. To keep crime under control, there is entertainment district policing and decreased crime trend monitoring, along with venue security collaborations. All of these factors make it a top choice for seeking the best places to live in Perth.

Family-Friendly Suburbs

1. Victoria Park

Population: 50,205
Cost of Living: AU$500 per week
Crime rate: 40 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Curtin University, Edith Cowan University,
Known For: Vibrant community

Victoria Park is a top suburb in Perth and is known for its vibrant community, and is famous for being right at the city's doorstep to the east. High dwelling density with council lighting upgrades and family watch groups are present to maintain safety. The city has a mix of reputable schools including the Victoria Park Primary School and East Victoria Park Primary School. As you stroll through its streets, you'll encounter the impressive Art Gallery of Western Australia and the iconic Bell Tower. Beyond its cultural allure, Victoria Park boasts a robust average income of AU$2,449 per week

2. South Perth

Population: 12,000 residents
Cost of Living: AU$580 per week
Crime rate: 77 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia
Known For: Zoo and waterfront dining

South Perth is renowned for its zoo and bustling foreshore area, making it especially popular among families and young professionals. Popular schools include the South Perth Primary School and Como Primary School in this area. The safety measures taken are Riverside CCTV networks, low-violent crime patrols, and community ranger services. The combination of leisure activities, dining options, and natural beauty makes South Perth a top choice for residents who value a quality lifestyle.

Top Suburbs for Nature Lovers

1. Como

Population: 12,423 residents ‍
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week ‍
Crime rate: 30 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Curtin University ‍
Known For: Riverside views

Como, a picturesque suburb along the Swan River, is celebrated for its stunning riverside views and serene ambience. This area is especially favoured by professionals and students due to its proximity to Curtin University and straightforward public transport links to Perth's CBD, making it easy access and one of the best areas to live in Perth. To maintain safety, certain measures are taken, such as the South Perth LGA's integrated security and park surveillance. Resident engagement programs.

2. Scarborough

Population: 15,467 residents ‍
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 50 per 1000 residents
Nearby Universities: Edith Cowan University ‍
Known For: Surfing and nightlife

Scarborough, a coastal suburb renowned for its vibrant surf culture, offers more than just beautiful waves. It is equally famous for its bustling nightlife, making it a hotspot for young adults and tourists. Safety measures taken are beachfront patrols and property growth safety investments. Whether it's catching the early morning surf or enjoying a night out with friends, Scarborough provides a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and entertainment, encapsulating the essence of a coastal urban retreat.

3. Wembley

Population: 10,000 residents ‍
Cost of Living: AU$550 per week
Crime rate: 40 per 1000 residents‍
Nearby Universities: University of Western Australia ‍
Known For: Sports facilities and lakes

Wembley is renowned as a family-friendly suburb that appeals to those who enjoy active lifestyles, featuring top-notch sports facilities such as the Wembley Golf Course and numerous parks. Inner metro policing and local suburb vigilance groups are measures taken to maintain the low crime rate.  Wembley's combination of leisure activities, community atmosphere, and natural beauty marks it as one of the best places to live in Australia.

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