View entire study abroad journey

A guide to living in Perth

Topics covered

Perth is Australia's sunniest capital. With stunning, sandy beaches and a large number of city parks, it's the study destination for those who love the outdoors.

Perth is one of the world's most liveable cities for many good reasons. The city offers a world-class education, a relaxed lifestyle and sunny climate. Perth has a vibrant economy and plenty of outdoor activities.

Things to do

Chill out in Kings Park

Kings Park is Australia's largest inner-city garden. The massive, 400-hectare park is right at the centre of Perth, but once you're in it, you'd never know. It's an oasis filled with well-known attractions, such as the Lotterywest Federation Walkway above the trees, the DNA Tower climb and the State War Memorial.

Go on a wine tour

Swan Valley is Western Australia's most popular region for wine and fresh produce and it's only a 25-minute drive from Perth. Go on a wine tour and visit some of the area's best wineries while enjoying stunning views.

Cycle around Rottnest Island

If Australia's unique wildlife, beautiful beaches and scenic views is what you're interested in, check out Rottnest Island. Hop on the ferry from Fremantle, hire a bike and spend the day exploring the local wildlife or go for a swim.

Average weekly costs

Rent: 200 to 435
Food: 100 to 150
Electricity/gas: 10 to 40
Transport: 20 to 50
Internet and mobile: 20 to 40
Other: 50+
Total: 400-765

Transport

Trains

Perth has six train lines heading out from the city: four from the Perth train station and two from Perth Underground, which is connected to the main station.

Buses

For shorter trips around the Perth metro area, buses are your best choice. Services generally leave every 15 minutes, but make sure you check your timetable carefully. They are less frequent outside of business hours and the wait can be up to 2 hours on Sundays.

Perth has an excellent network of free CAT buses, which run in loops around the city, East Perth, West Perth and Leederville. The buses are every 8 minutes between 7am and 7:30pm and every 15 minutes for an hour or two either side of that period.

Ferries

There's a round trip across the river every half-hour on weekdays (less frequently on weekends) from the Barrack Street jetty on the city side to the Mends Street jetty in South Perth. If you've got some time to spare, give the bus a miss and enjoy the view from the river.

Taxis

There are a few taxi ranks located around Perth where you can line up to get a taxi. Otherwise you can always try hailing one from the side of the road.

Uber

Uber is becoming more popular in Perth and increased regulation are being considered. This may result in higher costs but Uber will remain competitive with taxis.

Perth's suburbs

City Centre

Perth's city centre has gone through a huge transformation over the last couple of years. You'll enjoy new restaurants, cafes and bars before wandering a few of Perth's most important monuments for a taste of the city's rich history.

South Perth and Bentley

South Perth offers beautiful city views from its foreshore and is the perfect spot to relax, far away from the city's hustle and bustle. The area features massive stretches of parkland with plenty of running and walking tracks. Walk along the water's edge and stop for a barbeque or picnic at any time of the year.

Northbridge, Leederville and Mt Lawley

These areas are an exciting mix of hipster bars, cool nightclubs, international food stores and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops. Northbridge becomes even more alive during January and February when it hosts the Fringe World the third largest Fringe festival in the world.

Crawley, Claremont and Subiaco

These are the western suburbes. Step inside Perth's 'Golden Triangle' and experience highend shopping on a student budget. There are parklands and playgrounds throughout Claremont, so grab your sunglasses, pack a picnic, and relax at local favourites along the river: Claremont Park and Mrs Herbert Park. A couple suburbs over is Subiaco, which is one of Perth's nightlife hubs.