Initially developed as a remote beach resort, Scarborough became a popular holiday destination in the early 20th century. Post-WWII saw a surge in permanent residential development, transforming it from a shack settlement into a suburban coastal hub.
A vibrant mix of high-rise apartments near the coast and quiet, leafy streets with a blend of mid-century bungalows and modern luxury builds further inland.
- World-class beach and foreshore precinct with significant recent public investment.
- Proximity to the major Karrinyup Shopping Centre redevelopment.
- Strong rental yields and capital growth prospects compared to inland suburbs.
- Diverse housing stock ranging from entry-level apartments to luxury coastal homes.
- Active lifestyle with numerous parks, surf clubs, and outdoor fitness options.
- Significant traffic congestion on West Coast Highway during peak hours and weekends.
- Noise and anti-social behavior associated with the beachfront entertainment precinct.
- Strict development controls and high-density zoning changes affecting views and privacy.
- Corrosive salt spray environment requiring higher property maintenance costs.
- Limited parking for residents in high-density areas near the Esplanade.
How this suburb feels day-to-day.
Dominant dwelling stock.
Typical entry to ceiling.
Scarborough is the primary high-density coastal node for Perth's northern suburbs. It offers a unique 'city-by-the-sea' vibe that is rare in Western Australia, making it a hedge against suburban sprawl.
$1.1m – $3.5m
$480k – $1.8m
12-month movement
Current asking rents
House prices have decoupled from units due to land scarcity, while the unit market remains buoyant due to the 'lock-and-leave' lifestyle demand.
Price comparison
Median price ÷ median income
Estimated rental yield
Scarborough is increasingly a 'lifestyle' purchase where buyers pay a premium for coastal proximity, often requiring dual high-income earners for house purchases.
Lower = tighter market
Avg time on market
Annual rental increase
Young professionals, FIFO workers, and lifestyle-seeking couples.
Strong capital growth and low vacancy make it an attractive long-term hold. However, high strata fees in newer complexes can eat into net yields.
- Ongoing Scarborough Redevelopment Area improvements.
- Spillover demand from more expensive neighbors like City Beach and Trigg.
- Perth's overall population growth and housing shortage.
- Modernization of older 1960s/70s housing stock.
- Rising interest rates impacting highly leveraged coastal buyers.
- Potential oversupply of apartments in the medium term.
- Coastal erosion mitigation costs for the local council.
Expect continued outperformance of the Perth average as Scarborough cements its status as a primary lifestyle destination. Land-value-heavy properties will likely see the highest gains.
vs last 12 months
Relative comparison
Focus on properties with secure parking and gated access, particularly if located within 500m of the Esplanade.
Primary risks involve coastal environmental factors and the impact of high-density zoning on local character and infrastructure capacity.
Low risk, though localized flash flooding can occur at the base of steep dunes during extreme storms.
Negligible risk for the majority of the suburb.
Higher premiums for beachfront properties due to salt spray damage and potential long-term sea-level rise considerations.
Scarborough Redevelopment Area, Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP)
The Esplanade and West Coast Highway corridor.
Zoning is aggressive near the coast to support density, which can impact the 'view corridors' of existing properties.
Relies on bus routes (990) to Glendalough Station; West Coast Hwy is a major north-south artery.
Elite; features the Sunset Hill, skate park, climbing wall, and numerous cafes.
Excellent; Abbett Park offers significant sporting facilities and green space.
Deanmore Primary and Scarborough Primary are well-regarded; Churchlands SHS catchment is a major draw for some pockets.
Well-served by local GPs and proximity to Osborne Park Hospital and private clinics in Karrinyup.
A youthful, active demographic with a high proportion of professionals and a growing number of affluent families.
The high rental population supports investor activity, while the 25-44 age bracket drives the local cafe and fitness economy.
Ongoing implementation of the Scarborough Master Plan and various high-rise residential towers.
- Increased local amenity and public space quality.
- Modernization of the retail and dining strip.
- Improved pedestrian safety in the foreshore core.
- Increased traffic congestion and parking pressure.
- Loss of 'coastal village' feel for long-term residents.
Residents love the active, outdoor lifestyle and the convenience of the new foreshore, though many express frustration with traffic and the pace of high-rise development.
Nothing beats waking up and walking to the beach for a surf before work. The new pool is a game changer.
Great bars and cafes, but the weekend traffic on West Coast Highway is a nightmare.
Too many high-rises going up. It's losing the coastal charm I moved here for 30 years ago.
The playgrounds and Abbett Park are fantastic for the kids, but finding a parking spot near the beach is impossible.
The rental demand is insane. I've never had a week of vacancy in three years.
I love living here but the rents are getting out of control. Might have to move further inland.
- Prioritize properties on the 'hill side' (east of the highway) for better views and less noise.
- Check for 'View Protection' covenants if buying a property with an ocean outlook.
- Look for older villas in small groups (3-4) for better land value ratios than high-rise apartments.
- Verify the school catchment boundaries as they can change with population pressure.
- Negotiate harder on properties with high strata fees or lack of secure parking.
- Are there any planned high-rise developments that could impact the views or light of this property?
- What are the current strata fees and are there any special levies planned for building maintenance?
- Is the property located within the DevelopmentWA planning control area or the City of Stirling?
- Has the property been treated for coastal corrosion or salt damp recently?
- What is the specific school catchment for this street address?
- How many visitor parking bays are available in the complex?
- What is the history of the rental yield for this specific unit/house?
- Highlight lifestyle features like proximity to specific beach access points or cafes.
- Ensure all coastal corrosion (rust on gates, salt damage to paint) is addressed before listing.
- Professional photography at 'golden hour' is essential for coastal properties.
- Target the 'downsized' market by emphasizing security and low maintenance.
- Be transparent about any upcoming strata levies or building works.
Position the property as a 'lifestyle investment' that offers both immediate enjoyment and long-term scarcity value in a premier coastal precinct.
Scarborough offers a high-growth, low-vacancy environment suitable for long-term wealth creation.
High entry costs and potential for high strata levies in newer complexes.
- Target 2-bedroom villas with a courtyard for maximum tenant appeal.
- Avoid properties directly on West Coast Highway due to noise-related tenant turnover.
- Consider short-term rental potential (Airbnb) subject to council regulations.
- Focus on properties within 800m of the foreshore.
- Have your application ready immediately; properties often lease after the first viewing.
- Look for older units slightly further from the beach for better value.
- Check for inclusive water/gas in older apartment blocks.
Unbeatable access to beach, fitness, and social life.
High competition and potential for significant annual rent increases.
- Invest in high-quality air conditioning and security screens to attract premium tenants.
- Allow pets if possible, as there is a high demand from dog owners near the beach.
- Regularly maintain exterior surfaces to combat salt spray damage.
Ensure all pool fencing and smoke alarm requirements meet WA state standards, especially for older coastal villas.
- Stock levels remain tight, leading to 'off-market' transactions for premium homes.
- Buyers are increasingly wary of high-density developments blocking their views.
The '15-minute lifestyle' where everything from surf to high-end retail is within a short radius.
Young professional couples, active downsizers, and interstate investors.
This report is based on data available as of March 2026 and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or investment advice. Buyers should conduct their own independent research and seek professional advice before making any property purchase.
