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Should you buy property in Perth now?

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Australia Property Pack

property investment Perth

Yes, the analysis of Perth's property market is included in our pack

Perth's property market remains one of Australia's strongest performers in 2025, with robust price growth, tight supply, and compelling rental yields attracting both owner-occupiers and investors.

The Perth property market continues to defy gravity with median house prices reaching $869,689 as of September 2025, supported by strong population growth, limited supply, and easing interest rates that have reinvigorated buyer confidence across all segments.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Australia, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Australian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What are the current property prices in Perth and how have they changed over the past year?

Perth property prices have experienced significant growth throughout 2025, with houses leading the charge at a median price of $869,689 as of September 2025.

Houses in Perth have gained 6% year-on-year, positioning the market for continued growth toward $840,000-$856,000 by December 2025. Units and apartments have outperformed with a remarkable 10.4% annual growth rate, reaching a median price of $615,528, driven primarily by affordability constraints pushing buyers toward attached dwellings.

The most striking development has been the expansion of Perth's "million-dollar club" with over 113 suburbs now commanding median house prices above $1 million. Premium western suburbs continue to set records, with Peppermint Grove reaching $4.2 million and City Beach exceeding $3 million median prices.

Central Perth maintains its premium positioning with median house prices around $1.2 million and units at approximately $520,000, while outer suburbs offer more accessible entry points with areas like Baldivis around $700,000 and some northern ring options below $600,000.

This price momentum reflects strong underlying demand driven by population growth, limited supply, and renewed buyer confidence following interest rate cuts.

How do property prices differ across Perth suburbs and property types?

Perth's property market shows dramatic price variations based on location and property type, creating distinct investment and lifestyle opportunities across the metropolitan area.

Suburb Median House Price Median Unit Price 12-Month Growth Market Characteristics
Peppermint Grove $4,225,000 Limited stock High Most expensive, lifestyle premium
City Beach $3,000,000+ Limited stock High Coastal lifestyle, family appeal
Perth CBD $1,200,000 $520,000 Steady Central location premium
Balcatta $720,000 $400,000 20%+ Strong investor growth area
Baldivis $700,000 Limited stock 8-10% Family entry point, new estates
Cloverdale $700,000 $450,000 31% houses Airport proximity, gentrifying
Armadale $575,000 Limited stock 5% Affordable, high yield potential

Units consistently offer better affordability and higher growth rates, with suburbs like Leederville ($480,000 units) and Cloverdale leading unit price appreciation.

What rental yields are investors achieving across different Perth areas?

Perth's rental market delivers some of Australia's strongest yields, with strategic suburb selection offering investors returns between 5.3% and 7% depending on property type and location.

House investors can secure yields of 5.3-5.9% in high-performing suburbs including Leda, Midvale, Hilbert, Armadale, Balga, and Camillo. These areas combine affordable purchase prices with strong rental demand, creating compelling investment fundamentals for buy-and-hold strategies.

Unit investors access even stronger returns, with yields reaching up to 7% in select suburbs such as Cloverdale units at 7% and Leederville units at 6.8%. The median rental rates of $690 per week for houses and $660 per week for units, combined with vacancy rates at just 2.5%, create exceptional cash flow conditions.

The rental market's strength stems from Perth's population growth outpacing housing supply, with rental affordability stress evident as tenants now pay approximately 33% of income toward rent—a record high for Perth that supports continued rental growth.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

How do short, medium, and long-term property market prospects compare for Perth?

Perth's property market outlook shows sustained momentum across all timeframes, with varying growth patterns and investment opportunities emerging at different stages.

Short-term prospects for the next 6-12 months indicate continued price growth of 5-10% for houses, driven by ongoing supply constraints and renewed buyer confidence from interest rate cuts. Investor and owner-occupier activity remains elevated, with units expected to outperform houses due to their relative affordability and shifting demographic preferences.

Medium-term forecasts over 2-3 years suggest more moderate but sustained price appreciation as new supply projects gradually increase market inventory. Units and apartments are positioned to deliver superior growth during this period, benefiting from changing buyer preferences and continued affordability advantages over traditional houses.

Long-term projections beyond 5 years point toward solid capital growth, particularly in growth corridors including northern and southeastern suburbs. Infrastructure investment and population expansion will support both price appreciation and rental demand, with outer-ring suburbs offering the best value proposition for long-term wealth creation.

The market's structural strength—population growth exceeding housing supply—underpins confidence across all timeframes, though growth rates will likely moderate from current elevated levels as supply gradually improves.

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Which suburbs show the strongest demand from residents versus investors?

Perth's suburban demand patterns reveal distinct preferences between owner-occupiers seeking lifestyle amenities and investors targeting rental yields and capital growth potential.

Owner-occupiers demonstrate strongest demand for established suburbs offering lifestyle benefits, including Bayswater, Dianella, Noranda, City Beach, Peppermint Grove, and Leederville. These areas provide leafy streetscapes, quality schools, proximity to amenities, and strong community infrastructure that appeals to families and lifestyle-focused buyers.

Investor demand concentrates on suburbs delivering superior yields and growth potential, particularly Balcatta, Armadale, Cloverdale (especially units), Leederville units, Balga, and Leda. These markets combine affordable entry prices with strong rental demand from working professionals and families seeking proximity to employment centers.

Several suburbs attract both buyer types, creating competitive market conditions. Leederville exemplifies this dual appeal, offering young professionals lifestyle amenities while delivering investors solid unit yields of 6.8%. Similarly, Balcatta provides family-friendly environments alongside investor-attractive 20%+ growth rates.

The distinction between owner-occupier and investor suburbs continues to blur as Perth's overall market strength elevates prices across all segments, creating opportunities for dual-purpose property strategies.

What is the current supply situation for new developments in Perth?

Perth faces a significant supply shortage that continues to support price growth, despite several major development projects in the pipeline.

Approximately 1,200+ new apartments are currently under construction or approved across key precincts, including substantial projects like Burswood Point with 456 units and Somerset Residences contributing 203 units. However, this new supply represents only a fraction of current demand, ensuring continued market tightness.

Long-term supply planning includes ambitious land releases in northern suburbs, with over 50,000 new homes planned for areas including Wanneroo, Jandabup, Mariginiup, and Pinjar over the coming decades. The initial precinct development will add approximately 2,000 homes, though delivery timelines extend well into the next decade.

Current listing shortages mean demand far exceeds available supply across both sales and rental markets. This imbalance supports continued price appreciation and maintains Perth's position as a seller's market with limited choice for buyers.

The supply-demand imbalance particularly benefits existing property owners and investors, as new developments will take years to materially impact overall market conditions while population growth continues to outpace housing completions.

What is the current level of buyer demand and market competition?

Perth's property market experiences intense buyer competition with auction clearance rates and private sale activity remaining at elevated levels throughout 2025.

Listings across Perth sell rapidly, particularly in sought-after suburbs where multiple bidders compete for limited stock. The market demonstrates classic seller's market characteristics with properties often selling within days of listing and buyers required to make quick decisions to secure purchases.

Three interest rate cuts bringing the cash rate to 3.6% have significantly renewed buyer and investor confidence, with borrowing costs easing since early 2025. This monetary policy support has expanded the buyer pool and increased competition across all price segments.

Auction clearance rates remain near peak levels, with successful auctions often featuring multiple registered bidders and selling above reserve prices. Private sale markets show similar intensity, with quality properties receiving numerous enquiries and offers shortly after listing.

The competitive environment particularly benefits sellers and creates challenges for buyers who must act decisively and often pay premium prices to secure desired properties in Perth's tight market conditions.

How do current borrowing costs and lending conditions affect Perth property affordability?

Perth property affordability has improved modestly due to recent interest rate cuts, though deposit requirements and lending conditions remain challenging for many buyers.

Variable rate loans currently average 5.24-5.79% as of September 2025, following three consecutive RBA cuts that have provided relief for both new buyers and existing borrowers looking to refinance. These rate reductions have increased borrowing capacity and renewed investor confidence in the Perth market.

Deposit requirements present the most significant affordability barrier, with buyers now needing approximately 10.6 years to save a 20% deposit for median-priced properties. This timeframe reflects broader Australian affordability challenges and demonstrates why many buyers are considering smaller deposits with lender's mortgage insurance.

Rental affordability stress has reached record levels with tenants paying around 33% of income toward rent, highlighting the broader housing pressure across Perth. This rental stress often motivates renters to consider purchasing despite deposit challenges, supporting continued buyer demand.

Lending conditions remain relatively accommodative for qualified borrowers, with banks competing for high-quality mortgage business. However, serviceability requirements ensure buyers must demonstrate adequate income to service loans at current rates plus buffer calculations.

What budget do buyers need to enter Perth's property market?

Perth property entry budgets vary dramatically between central and outer suburban locations, with units offering more accessible entry points across all areas.

Location House Entry Budget Unit Entry Budget Market Characteristics
Perth CBD ~$1.2M ~$520K Central location premium
Baldivis ~$700K Limited options Southern outer, family focus
Balcatta ~$720K ~$400K Northern outer, investor appeal
Armadale ~$575K Limited options Southeastern fringe, affordable
Cloverdale ~$700K ~$450K Airport proximity, growth area

First-time buyers can access the Perth market with unit purchases in outer suburbs from around $400,000, while house buyers need minimum budgets of $575,000-$720,000 depending on location preferences.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

infographics rental yields citiesPerth

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Australia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Which Perth areas offer the best balance of affordability, lifestyle, and growth potential for residents?

Perth residents seeking optimal balance between cost, lifestyle, and investment potential should focus on specific suburbs that combine reasonable entry prices with strong community amenities and growth prospects.

Lifestyle leaders that justify their premium pricing include Bayswater, City Beach, Peppermint Grove, Leederville, and Dianella, offering riverside parks, established communities, access to quality amenities, and demonstrated capital value appreciation. These suburbs suit buyers prioritizing immediate lifestyle benefits over pure affordability.

Growth potential hotspots include Balcatta, Nollamara, Piara Waters, and Swan View, representing "bridesmaid" suburbs neighboring expensive enclaves that now attract both owner-occupiers and renters seeking affordability with future infrastructure development. These areas offer superior long-term wealth creation potential.

Affordability champions include Armadale, Lynwood, and Redcliffe for houses, plus select unit opportunities in Cloverdale, Maylands, and Yokine. These suburbs provide genuine entry points for first-time buyers while maintaining connection to Perth's employment centers.

The optimal strategy often involves targeting transitional suburbs experiencing gentrification, where current affordability combines with improving amenities and infrastructure investment to deliver both lifestyle improvements and capital growth over time.

Which property types and suburbs deliver the best rental returns with low vacancy rates?

Perth's rental market offers exceptional opportunities for investors targeting high-yield suburbs with minimal vacancy risk across both houses and units.

House rental champions include Leda, Midvale, Hilbert, and Camillo, delivering yields of 5.3-5.9% with vacancy rates typically below 2%. These suburbs attract working families and professionals seeking affordable rental accommodation within reasonable commuting distance of Perth's employment centers.

Unit rental leaders include Cloverdale with yields up to 7%, Leederville at 6.8%, and Maylands offering strong returns with vacancy rates often below 1%. These properties appeal to young professionals, couples, and small families prioritizing convenience and affordability over space.

Stable suburbs for consistent investor returns include Balcatta, Nollamara, and Swan View, which combine reasonable yields with predictable tenant demand and minimal void periods. These areas provide reliable cash flow for conservative investment strategies.

The key to rental success lies in targeting suburbs with strong employment nearby, good transport links, and demographic trends supporting rental demand. Areas undergoing gradual improvement often provide the best combination of current yields and future rental growth potential.

It's something we develop in our Australia property pack.

Which Perth market segments offer the best capital growth potential relative to risk?

Perth's capital growth opportunities favor specific market segments where demographic trends, infrastructure development, and relative affordability converge to create superior risk-adjusted returns.

Growing suburban corridors including northern areas like Balcatta and southeastern developments around Baldivis and Piara Waters offer compelling growth potential. These areas benefit from new infrastructure, population expansion, and relative affordability compared to established inner suburbs, creating conditions for sustained price appreciation.

Affordable unit markets in Cloverdale, Perth CBD, Leederville, and Maylands appear positioned for higher price appreciation as demographic shifts favor attached dwellings and affordability constraints push buyers toward units over houses. These segments offer superior growth potential with lower absolute risk exposure.

Infrastructure-linked opportunities emerge around transport corridors and planned developments, particularly in outer-ring suburbs where government investment in roads, schools, and community facilities supports population growth and property demand. Areas like Swan View benefit from improving connectivity while maintaining affordability advantages.

The optimal capital growth strategy focuses on "up-and-coming" suburbs experiencing gradual transformation rather than established premium areas where price appreciation may moderate. Long-term infrastructure projects and population growth patterns support robust capital growth relative to risk for both houses and apartments in these emerging markets.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. Here Property Perth Market Predictions 2025
  2. OpenAgent Perth Property Market
  3. Loans.com.au Top Suburbs for Rental Yield WA
  4. Smart Property Investment Perth Million Dollar Club
  5. REIWA Perth Million Dollar Club 2024-25
  6. RealEstate.com.au Perth Suburb Profile
  7. Plunkett Homes Best Perth Suburbs 2025
  8. Star Investment Perth Investment Suburbs 2025
  9. Canstar Best Perth Suburbs
  10. REIWA Market Forecast Update