7 of the Most Desirable Suburbs Near Perth’s CBD

Striking the perfect balance between convenience and culture, these Perth neighbourhoods are some of the most sought-after in the city. With excellent transport links, bustling cafés and community facilities, they are perfect for professionals wanting the best of city life.

East Perth

Nestled on the banks of the Swan River, exclusive East Perth is an easy five-minute drive from the city centre. It’s home to beautiful parkland, including Queens Gardens, Claisebrook Cove and the scenic Windan Bridge Loop for walking and bike rides. The inner-city suburb is coveted by professionals owing to its quick commute to the office and good selection of contemporary apartments and waterfront town houses. Some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes and boutiques can also be found here, adding to its appeal.

West Leederville

Just three kilometres from central Perth, West Leederville (or West Leedy) is a charming suburb bounded by tranquil Lake Monger. Property here is a good mix of character homes and new apartments, while those working in the city can hop on a train for the short 15-minute journey. Locals are within striking distance of Oxford Street’s eclectic bars and restaurants as well as the trendy foodie hub of Harrogate Street with Bad Love Burger Co., and Nowhereman Brewing. There are pretty parks and sports clubs and a flourishing shopping village on Cambridge Street.

Northbridge

Within walking distance of the CBD, Northbridge is the city’s cultural heartland briming with bars and restaurants. Its gritty past has paved way for an artist-driven hub, with live music haunts, street art and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops. Young designers showcase their wares along William Street, while the State Theatre, Perth Institute of Contemporary Art and Art Gallery of Western Australia, provide a jam-packed roster of exhibitions and events. Take your pick from modern apartment complexes, many with gyms with swimming pools, townhouses and quaint cottages.

Highgate

The pocket-sized suburb of Highgate may be one of the smallest in Perth, but it punches well above its weight as an inner-city hotspot. Beaufort Street is a popular strip for shopping and dining, with a string of coffee shops, small bars, old-school pubs and independent fashion boutiques, as well as the art deco stalwart Astor Theatre. The neighbourhood is eminently walkable and excellent for cyclists – flanked by picturesque Hyde Park on one side and the riverfront on the other. Just two kilometres from the CBD, it’s seamlessly connected via all modes of transport.

Inglewood

Further up the Beaufort Street strip you’ll find the leafy suburb of Inglewood. This jewel of a neighbourhood lures young professionals for its blend of history, buzzing village atmosphere and quick commute to the city. There are plenty of parks to get active, excellent shops and supermarkets and the renowned Monday Night Markets, held during summer. There’s no shortage of community amenities to keep you busy, with barefoot bowls, a roller-skating rink, golf club and aquatic centre. Inglewood is also favoured for its generously sized bungalows and Federation homes.

Subiaco

Sitting roughly 10 minutes from the city centre, today Subiaco is one of Perth’s most lively inner western suburbs. Rokeby Road runs through its centre and is lined with home-grown boutiques and delicious eateries. There are stylish watering holes, art galleries and entertainment at the notable Regal Theatre. Spread out in pretty parkland, including the Subiaco Theatre Gardens and Kings Park, and shop from local farmers and producers and the Subi Farmers Market, each Saturday. This lifestyle-rich postcode offers both gorgeous character properties and luxury new developments with all the mod cons.

Crawley

Famed for its Blue Boat House, the photogenic suburb of Crawley encourages life outdoors with water sports and cycling trails along the riverbank. It’s a short drive to the CBD and local beaches, and home to the acclaimed University of Western Australia making it a popular pick for both students and young professionals. There’s shopping at Broadway Fair, a handful of eateries dotted throughout the neighbourhood and health and fitness studios. Quarterly design market, Perth Upmarket, presents local Perth talent across more than 180 stalls within the stunning grounds of UWA.

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