3 August 2026
Estimated read time: 6 minutes
Key Summary:
- North and South of the River both offer strong investment opportunities, with different suburbs suited to different long-term strategies.
- Emerging suburbs like Eglinton, Karnup, Whitby and Mariginiup are benefiting from planned infrastructure, new communities and future growth.
- Established areas such as Baldivis and Brabham continue to perform well thanks to existing amenities, strong demand and ongoing development.
- Factors like transport links, schools, employment hubs and population growth are key drivers of long-term property performance.
- The best investment decision comes from understanding the fundamentals behind a suburb’s growth and choosing a location that aligns with your financial goals.
For as long as Perth has existed, there’s been one friendly rivalry that never seems to go away: North versus South of the River.
Everyone has an opinion on which side offers the better lifestyle. But if you’re thinking about building long-term wealth through property, the more important question is this:
Which areas are well positioned for future growth?
The answer isn’t simply north or south. Every suburb has its own story and understanding what’s driving demand is valuable.
Here are our picks for suburbs across Perth that stand out because of their affordability, planned infrastructure and long-term growth potential. For first-time investors, they’re worth keeping on the radar.
Let’s dive in.
North
Eglinton
Eglinton continues to attract attention as Perth’s northern coastal corridor expands.
Positioned just north of Alkimos, the suburb is still in the early stages of development, with new schools, community facilities and other infrastructure planned over the coming years. As neighbouring Alkimos becomes increasingly established and available land becomes more limited, Eglinton is well placed to benefit from continued demand.
For investors, this represents an opportunity to enter a coastal market while it’s still relatively affordable. As of June 2026, median house prices had increased by 14.18%, with rental yields sitting around 4.6%.
While every investment should be considered as part of a broader strategy, Eglinton offers the combination of affordability and long-term fundamentals many first-time investors are looking for.
Sinagra & Mariginiup
Sinagra is already a well-established suburb with limited land remaining, while neighbouring Mariginiup is beginning its next phase of growth.
Plans for future commercial and shopping precincts are expected to support the area’s evolution into a larger residential community over time. Combined with close access to Joondalup and major transport links, the area continues to attract buyers looking for long-term potential.
Its proximity to defence-related employment also creates opportunities for investors exploring Defence Housing Australia (DHA) leasing, depending on property suitability.
With development expected to continue over the next decade, Sinagra and Mariginiup are emerging as suburbs worth watching for investors focused on steady, long-term growth.
Brabham
Brabham combines accessibility with future growth, making it an attractive option for a broad range of buyers and renters.
Located around 20 minutes from Perth Airport and within easy reach of the CBD, the suburb appeals to professionals, FIFO workers and families alike. Its position alongside the established community of Ellenbrook means residents already have access to schools, shopping and everyday amenities while Brabham continues to grow.
Although entry prices are generally higher than some of the other suburbs on this list, demand has remained strong. Over the past 12 months, median house prices increased by 16.52%, with gross rental yields around 4.9%.
For investors seeking an established location with ongoing development, Brabham continues to present a compelling long-term opportunity.
South
Baldivis
Baldivis has been one of Perth’s strongest-performing growth corridors for several years, and its momentum continues.
Unlike many emerging suburbs, Baldivis already offers established schools, shopping centres and community facilities, giving families everything they need close to home. Its location also provides convenient access to Rockingham, Kwinana and Mandurah, supporting a diverse and stable rental market.
Future employment opportunities linked to the AUKUS agreement are expected to strengthen demand across Perth’s southern corridor, while some properties may also be suitable for Defence Housing Australia leasing.
There are still more than 400 residential blocks available for future development, providing room for continued growth. Over the past year, median house prices increased by 13.51%.
Karnup
Karnup is still in its early stages, but significant investment is planned for its future.
Mirvac’s proposed masterplanned community will transform more than 480 hectares over the coming decades, bringing new homes, schools, open spaces and community facilities to the area. Plans for a future train station on the Mandurah Line would further strengthen connectivity and accessibility.
For investors with a long-term outlook, Karnup represents an opportunity to purchase before much of this infrastructure is delivered.
Whitby & Mundijong
Located just south-east of Byford, Whitby and Mundijong continue to evolve as new residential communities take shape.
Their proximity to established infrastructure gives residents access to schools, shopping and transport while benefiting from more affordable entry prices than many surrounding suburbs. The completion of the Byford Rail Extension has also improved access to Perth, while nearby Tonkin Highway provides convenient connections to the airport for FIFO workers.
For first-time investors looking to balance affordability with long-term growth potential, Whitby and Mundijong remain strong options to consider.
So, which side comes out on top?
The truth is, there isn’t a single winner.
The best investment location depends on your goals, your budget and the strategy you’re building around your future.
The most successful investors don’t simply look for the next popular suburb. They look for the drivers of long-term demand, including infrastructure, employment, population growth and lifestyle appeal.
Understanding those fundamentals can help you make confident decisions that support your financial goals for years to come.
If you’re ready to take your first step in property investment, book a chat with our team:
Interested in learning more? Listen to our latest podcast where Senior Investment Strategists Conor and Nash have their say about these areas:
