Brisbane vs Perth
Cost of living, weather, jobs and lifestyle, side by side. Pick any two cities to switch.
| Fact | Brisbane | Perth |
|---|---|---|
| Population1 | 2.7 million | 2.3 million |
| State | Queensland | Western Australia |
| Median house price2 | $950k | $800k |
| Median weekly rent (house)2 | $650 | $680 |
| Average summer day3 | 30°C | 31°C |
| Average winter day3 | 22°C | 19°C |
| Annual rainfall3 | 1000 mm | 730 mm |
| Time zone4 | AEST (UTC+10) | AWST (UTC+8) |
| Main industries5 | Construction, health, education, resources services | Mining and resources, construction, health |
Brisbane is 2 hours ahead of Perth in winter. Figures are rounded, indicative values and are a guide only.
What it's really like: Brisbane and Perth beyond the numbers
What each city is known for
Brisbane. A subtropical river city with South Bank's parklands and swimming lagoon, a warm climate all year, and easy access to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts. It hosts the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Perth. Long white-sand beaches, Kings Park, Rottnest Island and its quokkas, and some of the sunniest weather of any Australian capital. It is one of the most isolated big cities in the world.
Getting around
Brisbane. Buses, CityCats on the river and a suburban rail network, with Cross River Rail adding underground stations. Several motorways and tunnels are tolled. Most residents rely on cars.
Perth. Transperth runs trains, buses and ferries, and the network has expanded with Metronet. Perth has no toll roads, and freeways make driving the norm.
Sport
Brisbane. Rugby league leads, with State of Origin a highlight at Suncorp Stadium. The Brisbane Lions (AFL) play at the Gabba, which is also the city's cricket ground.
Perth. AFL dominates, with the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers sharing Optus Stadium (60,000 seats). Cricket and the Western Force (rugby union) also have strong followings.
Day-to-day life
Brisbane. Relaxed and outdoorsy, with Queenslander houses on stilts, verandas and backyard living. Summers are hot, humid and stormy. The city is growing fast and rents have risen sharply.
Perth. Beach-and-backyard living with a slower pace. Mining work, including fly-in fly-out jobs, shapes the economy. Being three hours behind the east coast in winter takes some getting used to.
Sources: Translink Queensland · Visit Brisbane · Transperth · Tourism Western Australia