Pros and Cons of Moving to Perth

Perth is an extremely popular destination for those looking to relocate. The incredible scenery, a top-notch healthcare system, and a reliable public transport network are just a few of the perks of living in this bustling city. 

But, like any city, Perth has its pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when moving to Perth.

Cost of living in Perth

+ PRO: High standard of living

If you’re working in one of Perth’s high-demand fields, you’ll likely enjoy a high standard of living. Jobs in industries like healthcare, technology, and engineering are well compensated. This often means you can afford comfortable accommodation and even indulge in some luxuries the city offers, despite the higher costs.

- CON: High cost of living

Although the cost of living in Perth is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, it’s still above average. Perth is consistently ranked among the most expensive cities globally. But a high salary in the right sector typically helps cushion the impact of higher prices for housing, utilities, and day-to-day expenses.

+ PRO: Access to high-quality fresh produce and local goods

Western Australia is known for its rich agricultural resources, which means you’ll have access to fresh local produce and goods at competitive prices. This is a huge benefit, especially if you value a healthy, locally sourced diet.

Lifestyle and culture in Perth

+ PRO: Large expat community

With nearly a third of Perth’s population born overseas, it’s easy to connect with people who are in a similar boat as you. Australians are friendly and welcoming, and if you’re open to embracing the local culture, you’ll soon find yourself blending in – and maybe even becoming an honorary Aussie.

+ PRO: Great weather

Perth’s climate is one of its biggest draws. Expect warm, sunny weather for most of the year. The ocean breeze helps keep things comfortable even during summer’s hottest months. Winters, though short and sometimes chilly, are rarely bitterly cold, making it easy to stay active year-round.

+ PRO: Stunning beaches and scenery

If you love the outdoors, Perth won’t disappoint. Not only are there pristine beaches to enjoy, but the city is also surrounded by stunning national parks and world-class wineries. Best of all, most of these beautiful spots are just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, making weekend getaways effortless.

- CON: The city is rather isolated

Despite its many perks, Perth is one of the most geographically isolated cities in the world. While this can be an advantage in terms of lifestyle, it also means longer travel times to other Australian cities. Even a ‘quick’ trip to Sydney can take around four hours by plane.

Healthcare in Perth

+ PRO: Quality healthcare

Perth offers a high-quality healthcare system, with both private and public facilities that are modern, well-resourced, and efficient. The public system, through Medicare, provides accessible healthcare for residents, covering a range of services, either free or at minimal cost.

- CON: Long waits for hospital procedures

Perth's public healthcare system has one disadvantage: the waiting times for certain medical procedures can be lengthy. For non-urgent elective surgeries, you might face waits of up to two months, which is longer than the national average. 

While emergency care tends to be more immediate, the wait for non-urgent care can be frustrating, especially if you require specialised treatments.

Getting around in Perth

+ PRO: Public transport is reliable and affordable

Public transport in Perth is reliable, affordable, and continuously improving. The city’s train and bus networks cover most urban areas, with recent expansions ensuring more frequent services, especially during peak hours. Major projects like the High-Capacity Signalling initiative aim to increase train frequency by up to 40 percent, making getting around even more efficient. 

- CON: Certain areas are hard to reach without a car

While public transport is great within the city and nearby suburbs, some outer areas are harder to access without a car. 

If you live further out, you might rely more on personal vehicles, taxis, or ride-share services like Uber. These alternatives can be more costly than public transport, especially if you travel frequently.

+ PRO: Free public transport in the city centre

If you’re staying in the heart of the city, you’ll benefit from free public transport within the Central Business District (CBD). The free CAT bus service is convenient for getting around Perth’s main attractions and business areas.