Highgate was developed during the 1890s gold rush as a premier residential area for Perth's growing middle class. It features some of the city's finest examples of Federation-style architecture and was the site of Perth's first suburban school.
Today, it is a cosmopolitan inner-city hub characterized by the Beaufort Street commercial strip and a mix of restored heritage cottages and modern apartment living.
- Unbeatable walkability to Perth CBD and the Beaufort Street entertainment precinct.
- Highly coveted Highgate Primary School catchment area.
- Exceptional heritage streetscapes with high long-term capital value.
- Proximity to Hyde Park, providing world-class green space and recreation.
- Strong rental yields and extremely low vacancy rates for investors.
- Diverse property mix from entry-level studios to multi-million dollar character homes.
- Strict heritage controls under the City of Vincent can limit renovation scope.
- Severe lack of on-street parking for residents and guests.
- Noise pollution from late-night venues on Beaufort Street and flight paths.
- High entry price point for houses relative to land size.
- Limited secondary school options compared to the primary school prestige.
How this suburb feels day-to-day.
Dominant dwelling stock.
Typical entry to ceiling.
Highgate offers a unique 'village' feel within walking distance of a capital city CBD. Its small size ensures that supply is always capped, providing a natural buffer against market downturns compared to sprawling outer suburbs.
$1.2m – $2.6m
$380k – $850k
12-month movement
Current asking rents
The high percentage of units reflects the suburb's density, making detached houses extremely rare and valuable commodities.
Price comparison
Median price รท median income
Estimated rental yield
Highgate is a premium market where buyers pay for location and lifestyle rather than land size. It is significantly less affordable than neighboring East Perth but offers higher character value.
Lower = tighter market
Avg time on market
Annual rental increase
Young professionals working in the CBD and small families prioritizing school zones.
Excellent for capital growth and cash flow. The tight vacancy rate allows for frequent rent reviews, though high strata fees in some older apartment blocks should be scrutinized.
- Ongoing revitalization of the Beaufort Street precinct.
- Persistent demand for the Highgate Primary School catchment.
- Limited new supply of detached dwellings.
- Proximity to major infrastructure projects in the Perth CBD.
- Increasing 'gentrification' of neighboring Northbridge.
- Rising interest rates impacting high-leverage inner-city buyers.
- Heritage restrictions preventing high-density redevelopment of house lots.
- Competition from new luxury apartment developments in Mt Lawley.
Expect steady growth above the Perth average. As Perth continues to densify, Highgate's status as a walkable, character-rich hub will maintain its premium status.
vs last 12 months
Relative comparison
Check the proximity of the property to late-night venues on Beaufort St and ensure secure off-street parking is available.
The primary risks are related to the age of the housing stock and the constraints of inner-city living.
Low risk; the area is well-elevated above the Swan River flood plain.
Negligible risk due to high urban density.
Standard premiums, though heritage-listed properties may require specialized coverage for 'like-for-like' replacement.
Heritage Protection Area (City of Vincent), Character Protection.
Infill apartment projects along the Beaufort Street and Harold Street corridors.
Zoning allows for density, but heritage overlays often prevent the demolition of existing character homes, protecting the streetscape but limiting development upside for individual house blocks.
Excellent bus network (950 High Frequency route) and walkable to McIver/Perth stations.
Top-tier; home to some of Perth's best bakeries, bars, and independent retailers.
Hyde Park is the primary recreational asset, offering lakes, playgrounds, and walking tracks.
Highgate Primary is the standout; catchment also includes Mount Lawley Senior High School.
Close proximity to Royal Perth Hospital and numerous private clinics in Mt Lawley.
A highly educated, professional population with a significant portion of 'Group Households' and young families.
The high rental population and young age profile drive the vibrant local economy and demand for apartments.
Focus is on boutique residential infill and public realm upgrades to Beaufort Street.
- Enhanced pedestrian safety and streetscape beautification.
- Increased local population supporting small businesses.
- Modernization of older commercial buildings into mixed-use spaces.
- Construction noise and traffic disruption.
- Increased pressure on limited street parking.
Residents love the 'five-minute lifestyle' where everything is accessible on foot, though parking and weekend noise are common gripes.
I haven't used my car on a weekend in years; everything from my doctor to my favorite bar is on Beaufort St.
Highgate Primary is incredible, but getting a park near the school at drop-off is a nightmare.
My apartment never stays vacant for more than a few days. The demand from CBD workers is relentless.
- Prioritize properties with secure off-street parking; it adds significant resale value.
- Check the specific heritage category of the property before planning any renovations.
- Attend a school tour at Highgate Primary if buying for the catchment to confirm eligibility.
- Visit the property on a Friday or Saturday night to assess noise levels from nearby venues.
- Look for 'character' features that are intact, as these command the highest premiums.
- Is this property within the 'Heritage Protection Area' and what are the restrictions?
- Does the property qualify for a City of Vincent residential parking permit?
- What are the specific strata bylaws regarding pets or short-stay leasing?
- Has the property had a recent structural inspection for rising damp (common in the area)?
- Are there any planned developments for the vacant lots or commercial buildings nearby?
- What is the current school catchment boundary for Highgate Primary?
- Highlight 'walkability' and 'school zone' as the primary marketing angles.
- Ensure heritage features like fireplaces and ceiling roses are professionally restored.
- Provide a detailed parking map or guide for potential buyers during home opens.
- Use professional twilight photography to capture the inner-city lifestyle vibe.
Position the property as a 'lifestyle asset' rather than just a home. Focus on the proximity to Hyde Park and the convenience of the Beaufort Street strip.
Highgate offers some of the lowest vacancy rates in Perth with high capital growth prospects.
High strata fees in older complexes and potential for legislative changes regarding short-stay accommodation.
- Target 2-bedroom apartments with parking.
- Verify the sinking fund status for older brick-and-tile blocks.
- Consider minor cosmetic renovations to maximize rental yield.
- Monitor City of Vincent council meetings for changes to heritage or zoning policies.
- Have your application ready before the first viewing.
- Consider properties one street back from Beaufort for a quieter experience.
- Check if a residential parking permit is available from the council.
Unrivaled access to cafes, bars, and the CBD.
Street parking is difficult and some older units lack air conditioning.
- Allow pets if possible to stand out in a competitive rental market.
- Maintain the exterior of heritage buildings to preserve long-term value.
- Install high-quality security screens to appeal to safety-conscious tenants.
Ensure all heritage-related maintenance is performed by qualified trades to avoid council fines.
- The market is currently driven by 'lifestyle upgraders' from outer suburbs.
- Properties within 200m of Hyde Park carry a 15-20% premium.
The 'Smallest Suburb, Biggest Lifestyle' narrative works exceptionally well here.
Young professional couples (DINKs) and downsizing 'empty nesters' from the western suburbs.
This report is based on data available as of March 2026. Property investment carries risk. Buyers should conduct their own independent financial and legal due diligence before proceeding with a purchase.
