The 7 Richest Suburbs in Perth: Where Luxury Lives

While Perth’s median property value is £560,902, the richest suburbs in Perth tell a dramatically different story, with Dalkeith leading with an astounding £3.4 million median house price.

The exclusive “Golden Triangle” area hosts most of these expensive suburbs in Perth, offering pristine locations between the Swan River and the Indian Ocean. Notably, Cottesloe and Peppermint Grove complete the top three, commanding median house prices of £3.1 million and £3 million, respectively. These Perth richest suburbs showcase not just premium real estate but also prestigious institutions and lifestyle amenities that justify their remarkable valuations.

From City Beach’s £1,500 weekly rental prices to Swanbourne’s million-pound unit prices, these seven suburbs represent the pinnacle of Perth’s property market, each offering a blend of luxury, location, and lifestyle advantages.

Dalkeith

Positioned as the crown jewel in Perth’s affluent western suburbs, Dalkeith stands unrivalled as the wealthiest suburb in Perth and throughout Western Australia. Surrounded on three sides by the picturesque Swan River, this prestigious enclave offers an exclusive lifestyle that few areas can match.

Dalkeith lifestyle and prestige

Dalkeith’s reputation as the most expensive suburb in Perth attracts an elite demographic of residents, including mining magnates, CEOs, politicians, and media celebrities. The suburb exudes exclusivity and prestige, with its tree-lined streets showcasing some of Perth’s finest mansions. This prestigious pocket along Perth’s Swan River houses many of Australia’s wealthiest individuals who have cemented their legacy in the mineral-rich city.

Residents enjoy a community-oriented lifestyle with exceptional amenities. For recreation, the area boasts several sporting facilities, including:

• Dalkeith Nedlands Junior Football Club
• Dalkeith Tennis Club
• Dalkeith Nedlands Bowling Club

Furthermore, the suburb offers a village-like appeal with boutique shops and delightful eateries along Waratah Avenue. Locals particularly enjoy Café Des Delices, which adds charm to the area. Dalkeith Village Shopping Centre provides convenient access to boutique shops and gourmet grocers.

The area maintains a strong sense of community pride, with residents describing neighbours as respectful and caring. One resident noted that living in Dalkeith is “a very privileged position to be in, but with privilege comes responsibility”.

Dalkeith property prices and trends

Dalkeith continues to hold the title of Perth’s most expensive suburb with extraordinary property valuations. The median sales price stands at AUD 5.35 million, confirming its status among the wealthiest suburbs in Perth. This represents significant growth, as house prices have seen an annual compound growth rate of 6.1%.

The upper quartile of properties reaches AUD 6.57 million for luxury-seekers, while even the lower quartile commands AUD 4.40 million. Considering Perth’s 4,398 Dalkeith residents earn an average weekly income of AUD 7,143.44, the suburb’s demographic can afford these premium prices.

The rental market mirrors this exclusivity, with median weekly rates at AUD 1,987.69, though some sources indicate even higher figures at AUD 2,247.65 per week. Properties typically remain on the market for 41 days, indicating strong but deliberate buyer interest in this exclusive market.

Dalkeith’s location and natural beauty

Dalkeith’s geographical position significantly contributes to its status among the most expensive suburbs in Perth. Located just 6 kilometres from Perth’s city centre, it offers a quick 15-minute drive to the heart of the metropolis. Even with this close proximity, the suburb retains a calm environment that is quite different from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Swan River forms boundaries on three sides, providing breathtaking waterfront views that substantially increase property values. This unique positioning creates an island-like exclusivity that residents deeply value.

In addition to its waterfront appeal, Dalkeith is celebrated for its abundant green spaces. The suburb features approximately eight parks.

Consequently, Dalkeith represents the perfect combination of exclusivity, luxury, and natural beauty that justifies its position at the pinnacle of Perth’s property market. Its history dates back to the early 1900s when Scottish settler Adam Armstrong built “Dalkeith Cottage,” naming it after his hometown, giving this most expensive suburbs in Perth a heritage backdrop to its modern luxury.

Cottesloe

Nestled along Perth’s pristine coastline, Cottesloe is a beachside haven among Perth richest suburbs. It combines oceanfront prestige with exceptional lifestyle amenities. This affluent enclave boasts stunning coastal views and attracts some of Western Australia’s wealthiest residents, making it a highly popular location for luxury living.

Cottesloe beachside charm

Cottesloe Beach, affectionately called ‘Cott’ by locals, has remained one of Perth’s most beloved coastal treasures for over a century. The suburb enchants visitors with its pure white sand stretching more than a kilometre along the coast, meeting the impossibly blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The beach offers ideal swimming, surfing, and snorkelling conditions amid colourful reefs.

The broad grassy Cottesloe Esplanade, shaded by towering Norfolk Pine trees, provides picturesque spots for relaxation and ocean gazing. As evening approaches, the amber-pink sunsets over the Indian Ocean create a spectacular backdrop that has earned international recognition. Additionally, during winter (June through August), lucky visitors might catch glimpses of migrating whales offshore.

Beyond natural beauty, Cottesloe’s beachfront establishments offer exceptional dining experiences with unrivalled ocean views. Visitors can enjoy fresh Mediterranean plates at Barchetta or contemporary Australian cuisine at Longview while overlooking the iridescent Indian Ocean. The suburb’s relaxed coastal lifestyle creates an atmosphere that balances luxury with laid-back charm.

Cottesloe real estate market

As one of the most expensive suburbs in Perth, Cottesloe’s property market reflects its exclusive status. The suburb boasts the highest average annual income in Western Australia at AUD 432,311.29, with its 5,606 earners collectively generating an impressive AUD 2.42 billion in 2020/21. Interestingly, the suburb has been crowned Australia’s most concentrated wealth area, with the top 1% controlling 50.2% of the suburb’s total income.

Cottesloe’s wealth concentration is evident in its property landscape, which features numerous luxury homes and premium developments.

Learn more about 5 of Australia’s Most Expensive Apartments.

Cottesloe’s real estate attracts substantial investment, with numerous luxury properties regularly listed on the market. High-profile residents include billionaire mining magnate Andrew Forrest, who has amassed residential landholdings spanning more than 8,000 square metres over the past decade. His purchases include ‘Tukurua’, an 1890s summer house bought for AUD 24.46 million, and ‘Le Fanu’ (now ‘Banksia’) acquired for AUD 23.85 million.

Cottesloe community and amenities

The community atmosphere in Cottesloe combines village charm with sophisticated amenities. Located just 12 kilometres west of Perth’s central business district, the suburb offers exceptional connectivity while maintaining its distinct identity. Cottesloe features multiple transportation options, including regular Transperth buses and the Fremantle train line, with Cottesloe station just 600 metres from the beach.

Local amenities include:

• The historic Cottesloe Beach Hotel, a landmark destination for over 100 years
• Cottesloe Shopping Centre and Grove Plaza for retail therapy
• Multiple educational facilities, including two primary schools and a local high school
• The Cottesloe Civic Centre offers extensive gardens, playgrounds, and BBQ facilities

The Town of Cottesloe provides impressive recreational spaces, including the Main Lawn with ocean views, the Secret Garden with its fairy tale staircase, and the Sunken Lawn, popular for events. Simultaneously, Grant Marine Park offers excellent children’s play areas with nearby seating.

Cottesloe joins neighbouring Peppermint Grove, Claremont, Dalkeith, and Mosman Park to form what locals call the “Golden Triangle” – an exclusive area home to some of Australia’s wealthiest residents. This prestigious pocket has quietly developed into an investment hub, further enhancing its reputation among Perth’s wealthiest suburbs.

Peppermint Grove

The Australian Bureau of Statistics claims that Peppermint Grove, which was first founded in 1895 as the Peppermint Grove Roads Board, is the most advantageous neighbourhood in Australia. This exclusive enclave, named after the Swan River peppermint trees lining its streets, represents the pinnacle of luxury among the richest suburbs in Perth. It has earned the nickname “Monaco of WA” from former Premier Colin Barnett due to its small size and wealth concentration.

Peppermint Grove exclusivity

Peppermint Grove’s unique status stems from being Western Australia’s smallest municipality, covering just 1.0649 square kilometres of land. With approximately 1,597 residents inhabiting only 588 dwellings, this compact area spans six blocks, creating an atmosphere of rarity and prestige that few suburbs can match. Western Australia claimed four out of Australia’s top five most advantaged areas, with Peppermint Grove leading the list, followed by suburbs like Nedlands and Cottesloe.

The exclusivity extends beyond mere statistics, as many residents maintain long-established links with the area spanning multiple generations. This historical continuity contributes to the suburb’s distinctive character and close-knit community feel. Interestingly, over 40% of residents in this most expensive suburb work part-time (less than 35 hours weekly), a testament to the wealth accumulated by its inhabitants.

Situated on the north side of the Swan River, approximately 13km from Perth’s central business district, Peppermint Grove is one of the state’s most gorgeous suburbs. It features large character homes amid tranquil tree-lined streets and lush parks located by the serene shores of the Swan River.

Peppermint Grove schools and clubs

Education represents a significant draw for families settling in this affluent area. The suburb houses two prominent educational institutions:

• Cottesloe Primary School (established 1896) – A government co-educational primary school
• Presbyterian Ladies College (PLC) – An independent girls’ school offering education from Pre-Kindergarten through Year 12

Peppermint Grove pricing insights

Property metrics in Peppermint Grove reflect its status among richest suburbs in Perth.

The upper quartile of properties commands an impressive AUD 9.10M, whereas the lower quartile still fetches AUD 5.20M, highlighting the consistently high property values throughout the suburb. Property expert Candie Italiano notes that the abundance of large-family homes on larger-than-average blocks means sufficient cash flow is needed for maintenance.

What makes Peppermint Grove particularly valuable is its limited supply of properties. Real estate agent Jane Willis emphasises that “it comes down to supply and demand and there isn’t going to be any more land created in this prime pocket while the population of Perth is only expected to increase”. Subsequently, demand remains high, ensuring prices outperform the broader market.

Ray White Dalkeith Claremont principal Vivien Yap attributes the suburb’s long-standing position at the top of Perth’s property tree to its proximity to the river, adjoining riverfront reserves, surrounding top-class infrastructure, and leisure facilities. Peppermint Grove represents the epitome of exclusivity among Perth richest suburbs, combining heritage, prestige, and natural beauty in a uniquely compact package.

City Beach

Located just 10 kilometres west of Perth’s CBD, City Beach emerges as a standout among the richest area in Perth, combining pristine coastal living with premium real estate. This affluent enclave spans 10 square kilometres. The West Coast Highway bounds it to the south and the Indian Ocean to the west, creating an exclusive beachside sanctuary for approximately 6,609 residents.

City Beach coastal living

City Beach exemplifies Perth’s enviable coastal lifestyle with its immaculate white sandy beaches, which attract both residents and visitors. The beaches are meticulously maintained, with night lighting and regular patrols ensuring swimmers’ safety. Behind the shoreline, City Beach Park offers expansive open lawn areas complemented by modern picnic and barbecue facilities.

The suburb’s natural environment represents a primary attraction for affluent homebuyers. Bold Park Reserve provides a lush bushland setting with walking trails and breathtaking city views from the Reabold Hill Summit Lookout. Furthermore, a scenic boardwalk connects City Beach to neighbouring Floreat Beach, offering uninterrupted ocean vistas.

Architecturally, City Beach showcases contemporary design sensibilities, with many homes embodying the resort-style poolside living perfect for Perth’s summers. Properties typically feature bi-fold doors that open to alfresco entertainment areas, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces. The suburb maintains a delicate balance between busy tourist periods and the tranquil atmosphere its affluent residents prefer.

City Beach property values

City Beach firmly establishes itself among the most expensive suburbs in Perth with remarkable property statistics:

The suburb has demonstrated impressive growth metrics, with sales increasing by 10.1% and rental growth soaring by 27.3%. Presently, median weekly rental prices reach AUD 2,140.59, reflecting the premium value placed on City Beach residences.

Property market dynamics reveal efficiency, with houses typically remaining available for 26 days and units selling even faster at 18 days. The upper quartile of properties commands AUD 5.81M, whereas the lower quartile still achieves a substantial AUD 4.20M, illustrating the consistently high valuation throughout the suburb.

City Beach dining and recreation

City Beach boasts a vibrant dining scene predominantly focused along its spectacular foreshore. Odyssea City Beach is a premier establishment offering modern Australian cuisine with panoramic ocean views. Likewise, Clancy’s Fish Bar provides a more relaxed atmosphere that specialises in seafood and craft beers.

Recent additions to the culinary landscape include Voyage Kitchen, relocated from Sorrento. This restaurant serves shareable plates for breakfast through dinner, plus weekly pizza and pasta specials. Meanwhile, Hamptons City Beach offers versatile dining throughout the day, featuring an expansive deck perfect for morning coffee after swimming or evening cocktails at sunset.

Recreational opportunities abound throughout the suburb. Notably:

• City Beach Oval hosts sporting events and community gatherings
• Dedicated beach volleyball courts provide fixed beams for public use
• Challenger Park offers dog-friendly spaces for off-leash exercise
• The Quarry Amphitheatre regularly hosts performances against a backdrop of city views

For families, City Beach features various play areas scattered across its parks. At the same time, the City of Perth Surf Life Saving Club anchors the community with its distinctive architecture modelled after a container ship. Ultimately, City Beach embodies the perfect blend of natural beauty, architectural sophistication, and exceptional amenities that justifies its position among Perth’s wealthiest suburbs.

Swanbourne

Swanbourne earns its reputation as one of Perth’s richest suburbs through its elegant blend of sophisticated architecture, pristine beaches, and exclusive community atmosphere. This affluent enclave is positioned within the colloquial “Golden Triangle” of Perth’s western suburbs. It showcases remarkable property values and highly sought-after lifestyle amenities that place it firmly among richest suburbs in Perth.

Swanbourne architectural appeal

The architectural landscape of Swanbourne features a harmonious mix of renovated Federation-style homes and contemporary luxury developments. Prominent Perth architects such as Hillam have designed sophisticated, resort-style living spaces throughout the area, creating highly articulated building forms from diverse materials, including distinctive golden anodised aluminium screens.

Swanbourne Beach and schools

Swanbourne Beach represents one of the suburb’s most valuable assets, just 20 minutes from Perth’s city centre. The beach features family-friendly and clothing-optional sections, beginning 300 metres north of the carpark. Facilities include a Surf Life Saving Club, grassed areas, café, public toilets and change rooms.

Educational excellence contributes significantly to Swanbourne’s appeal among affluent families. The suburb houses several prestigious institutions:

• Scotch College – a renowned independent school
• Swanbourne Primary School – with an active community board
• Nearby Christ Church Grammar School and Methodist Ladies College

Approximately 80% of Swanbourne homes are occupied by families, indicating the suburb’s popularity with parents seeking proximity to quality education.

Swanbourne housing market

Swanbourne’s property market reflects its status among Perth richest suburbs with impressive statistics:

Comparatively, units in Swanbourne remain on the market for approximately 46 days (nearly seven weeks), reflecting slightly less demand than for stand-alone houses. Stand-alone houses constitute 81.3% of housing stock, versus apartments at 11.1%. Indeed, the typical house price reached AUD 4,367,490.27 by 2025, with weekly rental rates averaging AUD 2,324.07.

Swanbourne’s real estate appeal extends beyond mere property values. As local agents note, the area offers “a calm, community, family feel” alongside premium coastal living that justifies its position among the most expensive suburbs in Perth.

Claremont

Known for its sophisticated retail hub and cultural landmarks, Claremont shines as another jewel in Perth’s affluent western corridor. This exclusive suburb combines premium shopping experiences with excellent connectivity and impressive property values, securing its position among the richest suburbs in Perth.

Claremont shopping and events

The Claremont Quarter Shopping Centre is Perth’s premium shopping destination, boasting an impressive array of designer boutiques and luxury retail outlets. This upscale complex forms the heart of a bustling town centre surrounded by streets filled with boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. The centre has transformed Claremont into one of Perth’s top shopping locations, drawing affluent shoppers from across the metropolitan area.

Claremont hosts significant cultural events at the Claremont Showgrounds. The venue’s most prominent attraction is the annual Perth Royal Show, alongside numerous festivals. The suburb offers sophisticated options for evening entertainment, including the Claremont Hotel, On the Terrace, and Icon Bar, creating a vibrant nightlife scene.

Claremont transport and connectivity

As a result of strategic infrastructure investments, Claremont enjoys exceptional transport links. The suburb benefits from two primary railway stations—Claremont and Loch Street—with the Showgrounds station activated during special events. Recent upgrades to Claremont Station have improved passenger experience and increased service frequency, allowing direct access to the Airport Line.

The transport network extends beyond railways, including numerous bus routes along Stirling Highway and throughout Claremont’s northern and southern sections. This comprehensive public transport infrastructure supports the suburb’s reputation as an accessible, central location between Perth’s CBD and beautiful beaches.

Claremont property pricing

Property values in Claremont reflect its status among most expensive suburbs in Perth.

The impressive capital growth trajectory continues to attract investors, with houses showing significant annual median price increases. Under those circumstances, it’s unsurprising that properties sell quickly, with homes and units remaining on the market for less than two weeks, making Claremont one of the toughest markets to buy into among Perth richest suburbs.

Applecross

South of the Swan River, Applecross is a prestigious riverside enclave among richest suburbs in Perth. Its strategic location and natural splendour appeal to millionaires and mining magnates. Situated directly across the water from Dalkeith, this affluent neighbourhood combines urban sophistication with suburban tranquillity.

Applecross riverside serenity

Applecross captivates residents with views of Perth’s city skyline and Kings Park. The suburb sits just a 10-minute drive from the CBD and approximately 15 minutes from Fremantle, offering exceptional convenience without sacrificing its peaceful atmosphere. The suburb’s pristine tree-lined streets showcase beautiful million-dollar mansions and modern apartment blocks, creating an overwhelming sense of suburban tranquillity.

The riverside location is home to the South of Perth Yacht Club, where sailing enthusiasts gather for water activities and social events. Specifically, the Swan River foreshore provides ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing along Melville Beach Parade, making it a paradise for water sports aficionados.

Applecross Parks and reserves

Numerous parks and reserves grace the Swan River foreshore throughout Applecross. Goolugatup Heathcote on Duncraig Road features one of Perth’s first “super playgrounds” following extensive renovations in 2017. The playground boasts a giant pirate ship alongside facilities including toilets, drinking fountains, BBQ pits, and panoramic river views.

Jeff Joseph Reserve offers another expansive green space with stunning Swan River vistas and ample room for leisure activities, including marathons and triathlons. Interestingly, this reserve was named after former Councillor Louis Jeffrey Joseph JP (1958-1973).

Applecross real estate overview

The suburb features distinctive luxury developments such as Aurora Applecross, offering 118 opulent riverside apartments. These residences typically incorporate spacious open-plan living areas and expansive balconies perfect for entertaining. Above all, Applecross remains a prime location for long-term investment, offering expansive land sizes and modern luxury homes in a serene riverside setting.

Conclusion – Richest Suburbs in Perth

Perth richest suburbs stand as a testament to Australia’s thriving luxury property market, with median house prices ranging from £2.4 million to £3.4 million. These prestigious enclaves, stretching from Dalkeith’s riverside mansions to Cottesloe’s beachfront estates, represent the pinnacle of Western Australian real estate.

Property values throughout Perth’s wealthiest suburbs demonstrate remarkable resilience, evidenced by swift sales periods averaging 13-41 days on the market. Dalkeith leads the pack with its £3.4 million median house price, while Cottesloe and Peppermint Grove complete the top three most expensive suburbs, commanding £3.1 million and £3.0 million respectively.

Each suburb offers distinct advantages, from City Beach’s pristine coastline to Applecross’s skyline views. Premium educational institutions, including Scotch College and Presbyterian Ladies’ College, add significant value to these areas. Sophisticated shopping precincts like Claremont Quarter, alongside exclusive yacht clubs and tennis facilities, create comprehensive lifestyle packages that justify these substantial property investments.

These seven suburbs showcase Perth’s most coveted residential addresses, where architectural excellence meets natural beauty. Their enduring appeal stems from limited housing supply, established community infrastructure, and strategic locations between the Swan River and the Indian Ocean. These prestigious pockets will undoubtedly maintain their status as Perth’s most distinguished residential destinations.

Discover the 10 Richest Suburbs in Sydney.