Highgate crowned Perth’s most searched suburb of 2023

Highgate was Perth’s most searched suburb in the year to November 2023, with more than 167,000 searches according to www.reiwa.com data.

REIWA CEO Cath Hart said the inner-city suburb was widely sought after due to its convenient and vibrant lifestyle and had also seen several developments in recent years.

“The Highgate end of Beaufort Street has seen a range of new establishments over the past few years, with many cafes, bars and restaurants opening up in the suburb,” she said.

“Our members report the area is popular with downsizers from neighbouring Mount Lawley looking for amenities in walking distance. Professionals are searching for well-located homes with short commute times to the CBD.”

Ms Hart said Highgate offered a range of character homes from 1890-1920, many of which have been tastefully renovated.

“These homes remain on original blocks, with many over 300 square metres boasting large gardens and off-street parking,” she said.

“Homes in the area don’t come on the market often, but when they do are purchased quickly.

“The suburb has a median time on market of only seven days, showing just how quickly buyers act when they find a home they love.

“Streets such as Chatsworth Road, Mary Street, Cavendish Street and St Albans Avenue are incredibly sought-after, with many buyers looking to be in the sweet spot between Beaufort and William Streets, perfectly positioned between the restaurants and cafes, and Hyde Park.”

Highgate is also home to multiple apartment complexes, providing a more affordable price point to enter the suburb.

Perth CBD came in second place with over 129,000 searches.

Ms Hart said tight supply across the rental market had encouraged a number of tenants to become first home buyers and they tended look to the affordable end of the market to get their foot in the door.

“The city offers apartment living at attractive prices, perfect for those hoping to be close to the action in the CBD,” she said.

“Our members tell us factors such as a shorter commute to work and an inner-city lifestyle are leading buyers to purchase in the heart of the city.”

Ms Hart said while suburb searches may not always result in sales, they indicate the areas buyers find appealing, with factors such as transport, proximity to the river or beach, entertainment and dining standing out.

“While prospective buyers don’t always proceed with a purchase due to factors including availability and affordability, their initial interest in a suburb may direct them to neighbouring or ‘bridesmaid’ suburbs where they can still enjoy the same lifestyle benefits,” she said.

2023's most searched suburbs