Worst Suburbs in Perth – What to Know Before You Move

As professional removalists, we talk to people every week who are moving to Perth for a myriad of reasons: new job opportunities, a more relaxed lifestyle, or affordable housing.

Perth has a lot to offer, but one thing we always remind our clients is that where you settle to live is just as important as the move itself.

In our experience, “worst” rarely means unlivable. Rather, it typically refers to not being suitable for what you prefer.

A suburb that suits a single professional well may not suit a family, and a place affordable to a first-home buyer might seem inconvenient or isolating to a commuter.

The question “Is Perth safe to live in?” is reasonable, but the more appropriate question is: which suburb best suits your lifestyle, budget, and relocation objectives?

How We Define the “Worst” Suburbs for Relocation

Whenever people look for the worst suburbs in Perth, they are normally seeking to avoid issues after they relocate. From a relocation perspective, the worst suburb in Perth is one that presents problems with safety, commuting, accessibility, and overall liveability.

This is how we rank Perth’s worst suburbs, in a way that is practical for individuals who intend to move.

Distance from the CBD and Employment Hubs

In lists of Perth suburbs to avoid, it is common to include suburbs far from employment hubs, especially for newcomers.

Although some of these places seem cheap, commuting long distances to work may soon become tiresome and costly.

A lot of the worst areas in Perth portray their negative side only after daily commuting becomes part of your life.

Access to Public Transport and Connectivity

Poor public transport is a characteristic of many bad suburbs in Perth. Regions with limited access to trains and buses can be challenging for families, students, and people moving interstate who may have only one vehicle.

Such connectivity problems are why they are constantly included in Perth’s suburbs to avoid. Poor transport connections can also influence resale and rental demand, which is a factor to consider if you are not willing to stay long-term.

Crime and Safety Concerns

Safety is one of the main reasons a particular place is on the list of the worst suburbs in Perth.

Is Perth safe to live in?

As can be seen from publicly accessible information from the Western Australia Police Force and the Australian Bureau of Statistics, certain suburbs consistently have higher rates of theft, anti-social behaviour, and property crime.

Although no suburb is characterised solely by crime, safety is a significant factor in relocation decisions and in perceptions of the worst suburbs in Perth.

Rental Availability and High Turnover

Another indicator we consider to be Perth’s worst suburbs is the high rental turnover rate.

Constant tenant turnover may indicate dissatisfaction, poor safety, or a lack of facilities. These tendencies are usually observed in the worst suburbs in Perth.

This instability may result in a lack of long-term housing ties and a possibility of having to relocate again sooner than desired.

Infrastructure and Local Amenities

Suburbs with limited access to schools, health centres, shopping centres, and recreational facilities are more likely to appear on the list of Perth’s worst suburbs.

Infrastructure can affect day-to-day convenience and long-term livability, especially for families and retirees.

Most of the worst Perth suburbs have these shortcomings.

Worst Suburbs in Perth – Areas Newcomers Find Difficult

Here are some suburbs that newcomers may find difficult to live in:

Armadale

Armadale is often cited as one of the worst suburbs in Perth, especially by people who search for suburbs to avoid before relocating.

The problems related to Armadale are not so much a single defining problem as a matter of distance, perceptions of crime, and suitability for different budgets.

Distance from the CBD

Armadale lies about 28 kilometres south-east of the Perth CBD, which is squarely in the outer metropolitan region. Although the suburb is linked to the Armadale train line, commuting to central Perth may be time-consuming, particularly during peak hours.

This proximity is one of the reasons Armadale is classified as one of the worst areas in Perth for people who work centrally or who have a high level of frequent travel.

Crime Perception

Armadale has a good safety reputation. The suburb-level data released by the Western Australia Police Force indicates that Armadale has more reported cases of certain offences than the Perth metropolitan average.

It is vital to note that crime levels vary by street and house type, and Armadale, as in most large suburbs, consists of areas with extremely different conditions.

Who may still suit Armadale?

Despite its reputation, Armadale can be suitable for low-end purchasers and renters.

Based on REIWA housing data, the median house price and rental costs in Armadale are usually lower than the Perth average. It is affordable, which is one of the reasons some buyers are willing to make compromises.

Shopping centres, schools, medical facilities, and transport access are also well developed in the suburb; hence, it lacks no basic infrastructure.

Gosnells

Another suburb that has often featured on lists of the worst suburbs in Perth is Gosnells, especially among those researching Perth suburbs to avoid before moving.

Gosnells is a combination of affordability and accessibility issues that are likely to affect newcomers differently depending on their circumstances.

Transport Limitations

Gosnells is about 20 kilometres south-east of Perth CBD and is served by the Armadale train line and several bus routes.

Nevertheless, residents’ reliance on personal vehicles has persisted, especially in areas less accessible to the train station.

One reason Gosnells is categorised as one of the worst areas in Perth is the transport constraints faced by people who commute daily or work irregular hours.

Rental Availability and High Turnover

Another factor affecting Gosnells’ image is high rental turnover. The suburbs where tenants frequently change are not a new phenomenon in the discourse on bad suburbs in Perth, as high turnover may indicate dissatisfaction or instability in the rental market.

According to REIWA market data, the median rent in Gosnells is usually lower than in most other Perth suburbs, which appeals to low-end renters but can also lead to shorter lease terms.

Kwinana

Kwinana is a suburb about 35 kilometres south of the Perth CBD and is frequently mentioned as one of the worst suburbs in Perth, mainly because of its location and surrounding land use rather than housing affordability alone.

Industrial Surroundings

Kwinana is famous for its large industrial sector, which includes refineries, processing plants, and logistics facilities. Although this will offer good local job opportunities, it might also affect sentiment toward liveability.

• Industrial activity can contribute to increased truck traffic
• Some residents raise noise and environmental concerns
• The overall landscape differs from more residential-focused suburbs

It is these attributes that make Kwinana, at times, appear on the list of Perth suburbs to avoid, especially for families.

Commute Times

Despite access to freeways and public transport, the commute to central Perth may be long. ABS commuting statistics show that the outer southern suburbs tend to have longer daily commuting times, something new movers might not appreciate.

Midland

Midland is a major activity centre on the eastern side of Perth and is often discussed as one of Perth’s worst suburbs, due to its transitional nature rather than a lack of amenities.

Ongoing Development vs Current Drawbacks

They have significantly redeveloped Midland in recent years, with improvements to the retail precincts, health centres, and transport infrastructure. Such improvements have increased its long-term potential.

However, challenges remain:

• Traffic congestion around major shopping and transport hubs
• Higher housing density in some pockets
• Noise associated with commercial activity

Crime Perception

Public discussion around the Midland crime rate, based on WA Police data, continues to shape its reputation. Although crime levels vary by street, perception is a significant factor behind why Midland is commonly listed as one of the suburbs to avoid in Perth by first-time movers.

Balga

Balga is approximately 12 km north of the Perth CBD and is frequently mentioned in discussions of Perth’s worst suburbs. From a relocation perspective, it presents a mix of challenges and opportunities depending on your lifestyle and priorities.

Older Housing Stock and Varied Street Conditions

Balga comprises a varied mix of housing facilities, including old houses, public houses, and recent infill developments.

Such diversity leaves the streets uneven: one part is in decent condition, while the other is less modern. This diversity adds to the impression of Balga being one of the bad suburbs in Perth for new movers.

Safety Perception and Suburb Reputation

Crime and social discussions are among the ways a suburb can acquire a negative reputation.
Balga is occasionally listed as an unsafe suburb in Perth.

There is a significant difference in crime by street and block, suggesting that some areas are safer than others.

Visiting the suburb in person and reviewing crime maps are essential for anyone moving.

Thornlie

Thornlie is a well-established south-eastern suburb approximately 18 km from the Perth CBD. Its size and variation in residential pockets make it a suburb with mixed perceptions among newcomers.

Size and Pocket Variation

Thornlie is geographically expansive, with old residential areas, medium-density areas, and new estates. Such variation affects divergent access to amenities, traffic, and community perceptions depending on the part of the suburb one decides to settle in.

Traffic Congestion and Transport Access

Although Thornlie is well served by a train station and several bus routes, congestion occurs during peak hours, especially along Albany Highway and local connector roads.

New movers tend to underestimate commute times, which makes Thornlie appear less convenient than other smaller or more centralised suburbs.

Northbridge

Northbridge is directly north of the Perth CBD and is famous for its nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment precincts. It is extremely central, but with particular relocation considerations.

Nightlife, Noise, and Late-Night Activity

Northbridge is lively, and the nightly action may annoy residents who prefer quiet. It has led to the area being mentioned in discussions about Perth’s worst suburbs.

Limited Appeal for Families

Northbridge is also not very popular among families seeking long-term residential stability due to high traffic and noise levels, and a transient population.

Clarkson

Clarkson is a northern external suburb of Perth, about 34 km from the Perth CBD. Its distance and use of personal transportation are distinguishing characteristics for people moving.

Distance from CBD

Clarkson is a long distance from Perth’s city centre compared to city suburbs such as Burswood or Northbridge. Although it has a train station, most residents drive to work, education, and retail.

Car Dependency and Commute Times

Outer suburbs like Clarkson have longer daily commutes, which may come as a surprise to newcomers who move from inner Perth or interstate. ABS commute statistics illustrate that travel distance can be one of the factors that add to everyday pressures and travel expenses.

Burswood

Burswood is a suburb in the central area, close to the Swan River and the Perth CBD. Even though there are lifestyle trade-offs, it gives high-quality access to city amenities.

Event-Related Congestion and Noise

Burswood is home to major venues, and during events, residents are likely to experience traffic congestion, parking difficulties, and noise pollution.

Limited Residential Options

The suburb has a lower residential population than neighbouring areas, which reduces housing choice and diversity.

Belmont

Belmont is a convenient suburb, not far from Perth Airport and major arterial roads, but it is noisy.

Airport Proximity and Aircraft Noise

The proximity to flight paths may affect daily life, especially for families with young children or light sleepers.

Traffic and Industrial Land Use

Belmont has industrial areas and busy roads, which may lead to congestion and affect the amenity.

Wellard

Wellard is a relatively recent master-planned suburb located about 38 km south of the CBD. Although it offers contemporary living, it also presents unique challenges for moving people.

Newer Housing but Limited Established Amenities

Wellard is a modern housing area; however, the schools, retail and community infrastructure are underdeveloped.

Distance and Commute Considerations

The distance to the suburb leads to longer travel times, and people tend to use cars. Although it has a train station, some jobs or schools are even less convenient to reach by train.

Common Mistakes People Make When Relocating to Perth

Moving to a new city is thrilling, but it is also where most people end up making decisions without realising they have gone down the road to the worst suburbs in Perth.

The following are the most prevalent relocation errors and how to avoid them.

Choosing Suburbs Based Solely on Price

Among the greatest errors in choosing a suburb is that it is cheap.

Although low rents and property costs may be attractive, most of the lowest-cost areas also coincide with the highest-crime suburbs in Perth.

The suburbs commonly referred to in crime data might be ideal for some residents, but this is not always the case for newcomers who do not know local conditions.

Focusing on price can lead people into unsafe suburbs in Perth without them being aware of the long-term trade-offs.

Underestimating Commute Times

The size of Perth surprises many of its new inhabitants. The suburbs that seem to be easy on a map may require long-distance commuting, especially the outer ones.

Travel times have negative impacts, including increased fuel costs, reduced free time, and diminished work-life balance.

That is why most individuals subsequently label their new area as one of the worst Perth suburbs, although the suburb itself isn’t inherently problematic.

Not Visiting the Area Before Moving

The other pitfall is relying solely on online research.

Although crime statistics and suburb profiles are effective, they are not always accurate reflections of our daily lives. Several suburbs that are described as Perth’s worst suburbs are very different at night, at weekends or during the peak hours.

The Western Australia Police Force and the Australian Bureau of Statistics provide insight into recorded cases. Still, by going to an area, you can get an idea of noise levels, traffic, and the mood of a community—things statistics alone can’t capture.

Booking Removalists Before Finalising the Location

An apt example of an expensive error is to hire movers before you have settled on a suburb.

People tend to arrange the removal date and later find themselves in one of the most dangerous suburbs in Perth or a place that does not fit their lifestyle.

This may lead to last-minute changes, incurring extra expenses, or even requiring relocation shortly after reaching the destination.

What a Professional Removalist Can Help You Avoid

The risks of moving, particularly to an unknown suburb, are not immediately clear until it is too late. This is especially true of older, densely built, or less planned places.

Having moving services provided by trained professionals to handle house and furniture removals is not just about convenience; it also saves the hassle of making expensive, stressful errors that commonly occur during poorly planned moves.

Hidden Access Issues and Property Constraints

Access is one of the most neglected issues of a move. There are numerous Perth suburbs with challenges that are not immediately apparent during an inspection.

Narrow lanes, lack of parking, walking apartments, and truck access were all factors that can result in delays or additional moving expenses on moving day.

Professional removalists are taught to examine such risks beforehand.

We understand how to strategise to reach stairs, small lifts, and restricted spaces so that last-minute complications that may harm property or furnishings are avoided.

Delays Caused by Poor Packing

Most delays behind schedule are caused by improper packing. Overweight boxes, poor labelling, or improperly secured boxes delay loading and unloading and expose boxes to breakage. By hiring professional packing and unpacking services, one can avoid these problems.

Damage During Long-Distance Transport

Furniture being transported over a long distance is more exposed to vibration, movement, and the weight of the stacking. Some furniture, such as solid furniture, may be scratched, broken, or damaged due to improper wrapping, securing, or load balancing.

Specialised equipment, padding, and restraint systems are used by professional removalists and are designed for long-distance moving.

Choose the Right Suburb Before You Book Your Move

Having assisted thousands of our clients in moving to Perth, we have learned a few things. First, no suburb is the worst; it is just that some are not suitable for your relocation purposes.

For some individuals, the worst suburbs in Perth are those that fail to meet their expectations for commute time, safety, schools, or lifestyle.

That is why it is so significant to plan before deciding between a lease, purchase, or anything else.

It is common for people to buy property first without reading the fine print, only to find themselves living in one of Perth’s suburbs they later avoid because of their lifestyle, not because the suburb is undesirable.

This planning phase is all the more critical if you are moving out of another state. Working with long-established interstate removalists in Perth allows you to discuss timing, access, storage and suburb suitability before everything is locked in.

At Relocations WA, our role isn’t just to move your belongings—it’s to help you relocate smarter.

Speak with our experienced team at Relocations WA today for expert advice, tailored relocation planning, and professional support from start to finish.