Perth City and Mandurah Lead Property Searches in 2025

Perth City and Mandurah have emerged as the most searched suburbs for both buying and renting property in 2025, highlighting the ongoing influence of affordability, lifestyle and convenience on the Western Australian property market.

According to reiwa.com data, Perth City was the most searched suburb for properties for sale for the second year in a row. Its popularity reflects increasing affordability pressures in the detached housing market, with many buyers turning to apartments as a more accessible entry point.

First home buyers continue to show strong interest in city apartments, attracted by the ability to enter the market while living close to work, transport and lifestyle amenities. For many, an apartment offers flexibility — a starting point that may later become an investment when they move into a house elsewhere.

The city is also appealing to downsizers seeking larger, high-quality apartments that offer low-maintenance living without sacrificing space or amenity. Proximity to services, hospitals and everyday conveniences has become an important factor for this group.

Interest in Perth City has been further supported by anticipation ahead of the opening of the new ECU City campus, alongside the presence of major universities and employment opportunities. Buyer enquiries have been strongest in areas with a high concentration of apartments, including Hay Street, Adelaide Terrace and Murray Street.

Mandurah ranked as Perth’s second most searched suburb for properties for sale in 2025, continuing its strong appeal across a wide range of buyers. Its coastal lifestyle, combined with relative affordability compared with many metropolitan suburbs, continues to attract families, retirees and investors alike. Access to services, amenities and a relaxed lifestyle remains a key drawcard.

Beyond the top two, the list of most searched suburbs reflects a mix of established inner-city locations and growing outer suburbs. Premium areas such as Applecross, South Perth and Subiaco remain popular due to their proximity to the CBD, established amenity and lifestyle appeal.

Outer suburbs including Baldivis and Rockingham also featured strongly. Baldivis continues to stand out due to the large number of properties available for sale, consistently recording high sales volumes. Rockingham has climbed the rankings compared with last year, with increased enquiry linked to major defence and infrastructure activity in the area.

Suburb search data provides a useful insight into buyer intent, even when it doesn’t always result in a purchase. Buyers often begin their search in aspirational locations before adjusting their expectations based on price and availability. This commonly leads them to nearby suburbs that offer similar lifestyle benefits at a more attainable price point.

Perth City also topped the list of most searched suburbs for rent in 2025, reflecting ongoing demand from a diverse tenant base. Professionals, corporate tenants, young professionals and downsizers continue to be drawn to the convenience of city living.

A high number of furnished apartments has added to the city’s appeal, particularly for people relocating from interstate or overseas who are seeking a move-in-ready option. For many tenants, location, walkability and access to work, transport and everyday amenities take priority over property size.

Rental enquiry has been strongest for properties priced up to $850 per week, where tenants perceive value once reduced commuting time and lifestyle benefits are considered.

Mandurah again ranked second for rental searches, mirroring trends seen in the sales market, with lifestyle and affordability continuing to drive demand. Baldivis, Rockingham and Joondalup also featured in the top 10 most searched suburbs for rent, while Geraldton was the only regional suburb to make the list.