Northern Perth Suburbs- an Introduction to the North of Perth

Introduction

Choosing the right suburb is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when relocating to Perth. North of the River Perth offers a wide range of suburbs, from family-friendly coastal communities and excellent school catchments to vibrant lifestyle hubs and convenient commuter locations.

This guide compares some of the best North of the River Perth suburbs for families, professionals, couples and overseas migrants, helping you understand rental prices, schools, transport links, beaches and lifestyle before you move to Western Australia.

Joondalup – Best North of the River Perth Suburb for Families and Professionals

Joondalup is one of the most popular North of the River Perth suburbs for families, professionals and overseas migrants relocating to Western Australia. Located around 25 kilometres north of Perth CBD, it combines excellent schools, shopping, healthcare, public transport and employment opportunities with a relaxed suburban lifestyle.

Attractions and Amenities:

• Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City: One of the largest shopping centres in Perth, offering a wide variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
• Edith Cowan University (ECU): A prominent educational institution, attracting both local and international students.
• Joondalup Health Campus: A major hospital providing comprehensive healthcare services.
• Neil Hawkins Park: A beautiful park situated by Lake Joondalup, ideal for picnics, walking trails, and wildlife observation.

Travel Time to Perth CBD:

• Train: Approximately 25-30 minutes on the Joondalup Line.
• Car: Approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Schools:

• Public: Joondalup Primary School, Joondalup Education Support Centre, and Belridge Secondary College.
• Private: Lake Joondalup Baptist College and Mater Dei College.

Average Rental Price: Approximately AUD $600 – $750 per week for a 3-bedroom house.

Why people choose Joondalup

• Excellent public and private schools.
• Direct train to Perth CBD.
• Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre.
• Edith Cowan University nearby.
• Popular with families and healthcare professionals.

• Looking at Joondalup as part of your move? Our Perth relocation services can help you find rental properties, attend inspections and secure a home before you arrive.

Hillarys – Best Coastal North of the River Perth Suburb for Families

Hillarys is one of the most sought-after coastal suburbs north of the river in Perth, offering beautiful beaches, excellent schools and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. It’s especially popular with families relocating from the UK and overseas who want to live close to the ocean while remaining within easy commuting distance of Perth CBD.

Why people choose Hillarys

• Hillarys Boat Harbour and family-friendly beaches.
• Highly regarded public and private schools nearby.
• Easy access to Whitfords Train Station.
• Popular with families relocating from overseas.
• Great cafés, parks and coastal lifestyle.

Attractions and Amenities:

• Hillary’s Boat Harbour: A bustling marina featuring a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions such as AQWA (The Aquarium of Western Australia).
• Whiteford’s Nodes Park: A popular recreational area with playgrounds, fitness equipment, and beach access.
• Sorrento Beach: A beautiful beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Mawson Park: A well-maintained park with large open spaces, BBQ facilities, and a lake.

Travel Time to Perth CBD:

• Train: Approximately 20-25 minutes from Whiteford’s Station on the Joondalup Line.
• Car: Approximately 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic.

Schools:

• Public: Hillary’s Primary School and Duncraig Senior High School.
• Private: St Mark’s Anglican Community School.

Average Rental Price: Approximately AUD $800 – $1,000 per week for a 3-bedroom house.

If you’re considering Hillarys, our Perth relocation specialists can help you compare nearby suburbs, attend inspections and secure a rental before you arrive in Western Australia.

Wanneroo – Best North of the River Perth Suburb for Space and Growing Families

Wanneroo is one of Perth’s fastest-growing northern suburbs, offering larger homes, family-friendly neighbourhoods and excellent value for renters. Located around 25 kilometres north of Perth CBD, it’s popular with families looking for more space while remaining within easy reach of Joondalup, schools and transport links.

Why people choose Wanneroo

• Larger homes with family-sized gardens.
• Great value compared with nearby coastal suburbs.
• Easy access to Joondalup and the Mitchell Freeway.
• Parks, playgrounds and sporting facilities.
• Popular with growing families relocating to Perth.

Attractions and Amenities:

• Yanchep National Park: A large park offering bushwalking, cave tours, and the chance to see native Australian wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas.
• Wanneroo Botanic Gardens: A beautiful garden featuring mini golf courses and lush, landscaped grounds.
• Wanneroo Central Shopping Centre: A convenient shopping destination with a variety of retail stores and services.
• Mariginiup Lake: A serene spot for fishing, kayaking, and bird watching.

Travel Time to Perth CBD:

• Train: Approximately 35-40 minutes from Joondalup Station on the Joondalup Line.
• Car: Approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Schools:

• Public: Wanneroo Primary School and Wanneroo Secondary College.
• Private: St Anthony’s School.

Average Rental Price: Approximately AUD $550 – $650 per week for a 3-bedroom house.

Looking at Wanneroo for your move to Perth? Our Perth relocation specialists help families compare suburbs, attend inspections and secure rental properties before they arrive.

Clarkson – Best Affordable North of the River Perth Suburb for Families

Clarkson is a popular northern suburb for families and first-time renters looking for affordable homes with excellent transport connections. Located around 34 kilometres north of Perth CBD, it offers easy access to beaches, shopping centres, schools and the Joondalup train line, making it a practical choice for people relocating to Perth.

Why people choose Clarkson

• More affordable rental homes than many nearby coastal suburbs.
• Clarkson Train Station with direct services to Perth CBD.
• Close to Ocean Keys Shopping Centre and Mindarie Marina.
• Family-friendly parks and schools.
• Great value for families relocating to Perth.

Attractions and Amenities:

• Ocean Keys Shopping Centre: A major shopping destination with a wide range of stores, cafes, and restaurants.
• Mindarie Marina: A nearby marina offering dining, entertainment, and beautiful waterfront views.
• Clarkson Community High School: A prominent educational institution serving the local community.
• Anthony Waring Park: A large park with sporting facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Travel Time to Perth CBD:

• Train: Approximately 35-40 minutes on the Joondalup Line.
• Car: Approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Schools:

• Public: Clarkson Primary School and Clarkson Community High School.
• Private: Somerly Primary School and Mindarie Senior College (though technically in Mindarie, it serves the Clarkson area).

Average Rental Price: Approximately AUD $550 – $700 per week for a 3-bedroom house.

If you’re relocating to Clarkson, our Perth relocation services can help you compare nearby suburbs, attend property inspections and secure a rental before you move to Perth.

Duncraig – Best North of the River Perth Suburb for Schools and Family Living

Duncraig is one of Perth’s most established family suburbs north of the river, well known for its excellent schools, parks and community feel. Located around 17 kilometres north of Perth CBD, it’s a popular choice for families relocating to Perth who want strong school catchments and easy access to both the coast and the city..

Why people choose Duncraig

• Highly regarded public and private schools.
• Family-friendly parks and sporting facilities.
• Easy commute to Perth CBD via Warwick Station.
• Close to beaches, shopping and healthcare.
• One of Perth’s most popular family suburbs north of the river.

Attractions and Amenities:

• Duncraig Senior High School: A well-regarded school with a strong academic reputation.
• Percy Doyle Reserve: A large recreational area with sports facilities, playgrounds, and open spaces.
• Carine Glades Shopping Centre: A convenient shopping spot with a range of stores and services.
• Marri Park: A local park featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and BBQ areas.

Travel Time to Perth CBD:

• Train: Approximately 20-25 minutes from Warwick Station on the Joondalup Line.
• Car: Approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Schools:

• Public: Duncraig Primary School and Duncraig Senior High School.
• Private: St Stephen’s School (Duncraig Campus).

Average Rental Price: Approximately AUD $700 – $900 per week for a 3-bedroom house.

Need help choosing between Duncraig, Hillarys and Joondalup? Our Perth relocation specialists help families compare suburbs, inspect properties and secure rentals before arriving in Western Australia.

Conclusion

Which North of the River Perth Suburb Is Right for You?

Every family and professional relocating to Perth has different priorities. Some people want to live close to the beach, while others are looking for excellent schools, an easy commute to Perth CBD or the best value rental property.

Whether you’re considering Joondalup, Hillarys, Wanneroo, Clarkson or Duncraig, choosing the right suburb is about finding the best fit for your lifestyle, budget and future plans.

If you’re planning a move to Perth, explore our Relocation Journey Hub for suburb guides, school information and practical relocation advice, or learn more about our Perth relocation services if you’d like personalised support finding and securing a rental before you arrive.