As someone who’s spent years inspecting homes across Perth, I’ve seen firsthand the dramatic differences between our city’s suburbs. I’m Russell McCarthy, the founder and leading building inspector at WA Building Inspections, and I’m here to share my experiences and insights into Perth’s best and worst suburbs. Whether you’re looking to buy, invest, or simply understand the area’s dynamics, this guide is designed to help you make informed decisions.

Why Your Choice of Suburb Matters

Choosing the right suburb is crucial, whether you’re buying your first home, looking to invest, or even just renting. Each suburb has its own unique characteristics, and the right choice can significantly impact your lifestyle and financial outcomes.

In my line of work, I’ve had the opportunity to inspect thousands of properties across a broad spectrum of Perth suburbs. Some of these areas are growing rapidly, making them great for investment, while others may have issues like high crime rates or poor infrastructure that make them less desirable.

Best Suburbs in Perth to Live and Invest

When it comes to choosing the best suburbs in Perth, several factors come into play—family-friendliness, proximity to the city, access to amenities, and future growth potential.

Best Suburbs in Perth for Families

If you’re a family looking for a place to settle down, suburbs like Applecross, Floreat, and Mount Claremont consistently top the list. These areas are known for their excellent schools, parks, and overall safety.

“As a building inspector, I’ve seen a lot of families gravitate towards suburbs like Applecross and Floreat. They offer a great mix of lifestyle and convenience, with excellent school options and plenty of green spaces.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections Perth

Best Suburbs in Perth to Invest in 2024

For investors, suburbs that are poised for growth are key. Suburbs like Baldivis, Clarkson, and Byford have been on the rise due to their affordability and ongoing development projects.

“Investors are always looking for the next big thing. Suburbs like Baldivis and Clarkson are seeing a lot of new development, which is a good sign for future growth.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections Perth

The Worst Suburbs in Perth: Areas to Be Cautious Of

Just as there are great suburbs to consider, there are also areas where you need to be cautious. High crime rates, poor infrastructure, and declining property values can make some suburbs less attractive.

Worst Suburbs in Perth for Crime

Suburbs like Armadale, Balga, and Mirrabooka often come up in discussions about high crime rates. While these areas may offer more affordable housing, the safety concerns can be a significant drawback.

“I’ve inspected homes in Armadale and Balga where the crime rates have been a real concern for potential buyers. It’s something that definitely needs to be considered.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections

Worst Suburbs in Perth to Live in 2024

Looking at the current trends and data, suburbs like Gosnells, Midland, and Kwinana have been highlighted for issues related to crime, lower socio-economic conditions, and stagnant property values.

“Gosnells and Midland have some great homes, but the overall suburb environment isn’t always appealing, especially for families or those looking for long-term investment.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections

Best Affordable Suburbs in Perth

If you’re working with a tight budget, there are still some great suburbs where you can find affordable housing without compromising too much on quality of life. We previously covered the cheapest suburbs in Perth, but what if you want a balance of affordability and quality in a suburb:

Affordable Suburbs with Potential

Suburbs like Beckenham, Kelmscott, and Maddington offer more affordable housing options and are well-connected to the city, making them appealing for first-time buyers or investors on a budget.

“I’ve seen a lot of young families and first-time buyers finding good deals in suburbs like Beckenham and Kelmscott. They’re not as flashy as some of the pricier areas, but they offer good value for money.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections

Best Suburbs in Perth for First Home Buyers

For first home buyers, finding a balance between affordability and future growth potential is key. Suburbs like Ellenbrook, Butler, and Alkimos offer this balance, making them popular choices for those entering the property market.

“First home buyers should look at areas like Ellenbrook and Alkimos. There’s a lot of development happening there, and prices are still relatively affordable.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections

Best Performing Suburbs in Perth

If you’re looking for suburbs that have shown strong growth in recent years, Victoria Park, Subiaco, and Leederville are excellent choices. These areas have seen significant property value increases, driven by their proximity to the city and vibrant community feel.

“Victoria Park and Subiaco are some of Perth’s top-performing suburbs in recent years. They offer a great lifestyle with easy access to the city, which is always a big draw.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections

Navigating Perth’s Property Market: My Advice

Perth’s property market can be tricky to navigate, especially if you’re not familiar with the different suburbs and their unique characteristics. My advice is always to do your research, visit the suburbs you’re interested in, and consult with professionals who know the area well.

“One of the most important things you can do is get a professional building inspection before you buy. It gives you peace of mind knowing the property is structurally sound and helps you avoid any nasty surprises down the line.” — Russell McCarthy, WA Building Inspections

My Final Words

Choosing the right suburb in Perth is more than just about finding a place to live—it’s about investing in your future. Whether you’re looking for the best suburbs in Perth to invest in 2024 or trying to avoid the worst, doing your research and consulting with experts like myself can make all the difference.

FAQs

What is the worst suburb in Perth?

There isn’t a definitive answer as it depends on what you’re looking for. However, suburbs like Armadale and Balga often rank lower due to higher crime rates and socio-economic challenges.

Which are the best suburbs in Perth to invest in 2024?

Suburbs like Baldivis, Clarkson, and Byford are considered good options for investment due to ongoing development and potential for future growth.

Where can I find affordable housing in Perth?

Affordable housing can be found in suburbs like Beckenham, Kelmscott, and Maddington, which offer a balance of affordability and accessibility.

What are the best suburbs in Perth for families?

Applecross, Floreat, and Mount Claremont are some of the top choices for families due to their excellent schools, parks, and safety.

Are there any suburbs in Perth I should avoid?

Suburbs like Gosnells, Midland, and Kwinana have been noted for issues related to crime and declining property values, making them less desirable for some buyers.

Which are the best performing suburbs in Perth?

Victoria Park, Subiaco, and Leederville have shown strong growth in recent years, making them some of the best-performing suburbs in Perth.