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Moving to Perth, Australia | Expat Exchange
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Matilda Bay in Perth, Australia

Moving to Perth, Australia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 08, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Perth, Australia for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. With its sunny climate, diverse population, and abundance of outdoor activities, Perth is an attractive destination for those looking to start a new life abroad. Before moving to Perth, it is important to be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than many other cities in Australia. Additionally, Perth is a very spread out city, so having a car is essential for getting around. Lastly, it is important to research the job market and the availability of housing before making the move.

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Cigna Global Health

What do I need to know before moving to Perth?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Perth, they said:

"Before moving to Perth, expats should research visa requirements and any health risks associated with the area. Though Perth has a mild climate, expats should be prepared for hot, dry summers and short, wet winters. Expats should also research the cost of living in the area and make sure to open an Australian bank account in order to access local services. In addition to these practical considerations, expats should be aware of its local culture and customs, as they may differ from those of their home country," explained one expat living in Perth, Australia, Australia.

How do I find a place to live in Perth?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"The best way to begin looking for a place to live in Perth is to research online. There are numerous websites specifically designed to help people find rental accommodation in Perth, such as realestate.com.au, domain.com.au, and rent.com.au. You can also find apartment and house listings in the local newspapers, or seek the services of a real estate agent who can help you find the perfect accommodation. Additionally, it is a good idea to attend local open for inspections so that you can explore the area and find the ideal place to live," said one expat in Perth, Australia.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Perth?

"Most expat homes in Perth are modern and comfortable. They typically have spacious living areas, well-equipped kitchens, large bedrooms and modern bathrooms. The homes are built to withstand the intense heat of the Australian summer and have features such as air-conditioning and ceiling fans throughout. Security is a priority and many expat homes have secure gates and access control systems. Outdoor living is also popular in Perth and many expat homes have balconies or courtyards. Location is often key, with many expats choosing suburban locations close to public transport, restaurants and leisure facilities," said one expat who made the move to Perth, Australia.

What is the average cost of housing in Perth?

If you are thinking about moving to Perth, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Perth can vary significantly depending on the desired location and quality of property. Generally speaking, it is possible to find both apartments and houses for rent in Perth ranging from moderately-priced to fairly expensive. The price also depends on factors like the current market situation and the degree of amenities the property offers. Generally, a spacious one-bedroom apartment in the desirable inner-city suburbs could cost around $2,500 to $3,000 per month, while a three-bedroom house close to the city could cost at least $3,500 per month. Ultimately, the rent price depends largely on the individual tenant's preferences and budget," explained one expat living in Perth, Australia, Australia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Perth?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Perth, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"If you are interested in living in Perth, you may want to consider whether you should buy or rent a home. Renting can be a great option if your move to Perth is temporary, or if your budget does not currently allow for a large down payment. However, if you plan on staying in the area for a long time and you have saved for a home, buying can be a great way to begin building equity in an area you know you will stay in for a while. Ultimately, it is important to decide what works best for your specific situation," replied a member in Perth, Australia.

What should I pack when moving to Perth?

We asked people living in Perth to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Perth, it is important to remember to pack appropriate clothing for the warm weather. Make sure to pack something for both wet and dry conditions, such as rain jackets or shorts and a light top for sunny days. Be sure to bring plenty of summer-specific items such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring along some books, music, or other entertainment items to keep you occupied. Lastly, don't forget to bring your important documents, such as your passport, birth certificate, and driver's license," remarked one expat in Perth, Australia, Australia.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Perth?

We asked people in Perth if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences and to maintain respect for the traditions, customs and beliefs of the local community when visiting Perth. As the home of the Noongar people, an Aboriginal Australian group, it is important to be aware of the cultural sacred sites in the city and to avoid using disrespectful language. It is also advisable to be mindful of personal space, as Australians generally prefer to keep a distance of around 0.6 metres from each other in social contexts. When in doubt, it is polite to ask before taking pictures of strangers or local sacred sites. Finally, dress according to the occasion and in weather-appropriate clothing when going out in public," said one expat in Perth, Australia.

Why do people move to Perth?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Perth, they responded:

"People move to Perth for many reasons. The city offers a high quality of life, with a wide range of options for employment, education, recreation, and leisure time. The climate is mild and sunny, with temperatures rarely dropping below 9 degrees Celsius in winter. Additionally, property prices in Perth remain lower than those of most major cities, making it an appealing place for people looking for an affordable cost of living. There are also many natural attractions and activities to explore, including strolling along Perth’s Swan River, taking in views of Kings Park, and visiting the nearby Margaret River wine region. Perth also has a busy event and entertainment calendar, so there’s always something to do on the weekends," replied one expat when asked about moving to Perth.

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How are healthcare services Perth?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Perth, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Perth are generally of a very high quality and are tailored to the needs of individuals and families. The public healthcare system includes general hospitals and related services such as outpatients, Allied Health Services and community health and mental health services, as well as specialist services. Private health care is also widely available and provides options for those who wish to receive treatment at one of the city's many accredited private clinics and hospitals. As Perth is the capital of Western Australia, there are a number of tertiary and specialist hospitals in the city as well, providing care to a high standard. Overall, Perth offers an excellent standard of health care that is well respected both nationally and internationally," said one expat.

What are medical services in Perth like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Perth, they replied:

"Medical services in Perth include a range of general practitioners, specialists, hospitals and medical clinics providing comprehensive health care for both short-term and long-term illnesses. Perth is also home to some of Australia's most advanced medical treatment centers, offering cutting-edge technology and expertise in treatments such as cancer, heart, and vision care. The state offers a number of walk-in clinics and community health centers offering services ranging from basic medical care and preventative health care, to mental health counseling, substance abuse and addiction treatment. In addition, there are a variety of pharmacies and home health services available to cater to people's medical needs," wrote one expat living in Perth.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Matilda Bay in Perth, Australia

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