The Perth suburbs with the highest population growth revealed

The recent release of population growth data for Perth has highlighted a dramatic shift in residential patterns within Western Australia. According to a comprehensive analysis conducted by KPMG, more than 8,000 individuals migrated to Perth during the 2024-25 financial year. This movement marks a notable trend as major cities in the eastern states experienced a decline in population due to escalating living expenses. Notably, Brisbane and Perth emerged as the sole capital cities witnessing an increase in net interstate migration, contrasting sharply with the losses seen in Sydney and Melbourne, where thousands of residents left each city.

Perth's population surged by 2.4 percent, translating to approximately 58,100 new residents. This growth was primarily fueled by overseas migration, indicating a global appeal for the city's lifestyle and economic opportunities. The expansion is particularly pronounced in greenfield areas—regions characterized by undeveloped land and potential for future development. Among these, Alkimos-Eglinton stands out as the fastest-growing suburb, welcoming over 2,500 new residents. Other rapidly expanding areas include Brabham-Henley Brook, as well as parts of Baldivis and Byford, which form the backbone of Perth's southern corridor.

Urban economist Terry Rawnsley from KPMG emphasized that Perth's attractiveness lies in its robust economy and quality of life. However, he warned that the city faces challenges as its swift growth threatens to erode some of the very qualities that initially drew people to it, such as affordable housing. Coastal regions of Perth are drawing attention due to their relatively lower housing costs and desirable lifestyles, making them competitive against similar areas in other states.

The push for housing development is evident as state governments implement policies aimed at increasing supply in middle-ring and inner suburbs. These efforts aim to alleviate pressure on greenfield areas, yet Rawnsley noted that achieving this balance will require considerable time. Residents who previously inhabited inner-city neighborhoods like East Perth, Cannington, and Bentley are increasingly relocating to newer suburban developments, while these inner areas continue to attract newcomers from outside the state.

Affordability issues are significantly impacting younger families, pushing them towards outer suburbs. Statistical evidence supports this, with baby booms observed in Byford, Alkimos, and Brabham. Conversely, certain affluent areas are experiencing a "death boom," with declining populations in places such as North Coogee, Karrinyup, Claremont, Mandurah, Bentley, and Bullcreek. Rawnsley attributed these demographic shifts to an aging population combined with the rising cost of housing, leading to a gradual exodus from wealthier districts.

This evolving landscape underscores the complex interplay between economic factors, housing availability, and lifestyle preferences shaping Perth's demographic trends. As the city continues to grow, the challenge remains to maintain the balance between sustainable development and preserving the unique characteristics that make Perth an appealing destination for migrants and residents alike. The coming years will likely see further adjustments in urban planning and housing policies as the city navigates these changes.