Darwin vs Perth
Cost of living, weather, jobs and lifestyle, side by side. Pick any two cities to switch.
| Fact | Darwin | Perth |
|---|---|---|
| Population1 | 150,000 | 2.3 million |
| State | Northern Territory | Western Australia |
| Median house price2 | $580k | $800k |
| Median weekly rent (house)2 | $650 | $680 |
| Average summer day3 | 32°C | 31°C |
| Average winter day3 | 31°C | 19°C |
| Annual rainfall3 | 1700 mm | 730 mm |
| Time zone4 | ACST (UTC+9.5) | AWST (UTC+8) |
| Main industries5 | Defence, government, tourism, gas | Mining and resources, construction, health |
Darwin is 1.5 hours ahead of Perth in winter. Figures are rounded, indicative values and are a guide only.
What it's really like: Darwin and Perth beyond the numbers
What each city is known for
Darwin. Mindil Beach sunset markets, crocodiles, World War II history, and access to Kakadu and Litchfield national parks. It is the closest Australian capital to Asia.
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
Darwin. A bus network only, and driving is the norm. There are no toll roads, and the city is small enough to cross in about 20 minutes.
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
Darwin. AFL is popular, and NT Thunder plays in the state league. Darwin also hosts NRL and AFL fixtures, the Darwin Triple Crown Supercars and fishing competitions.
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
Darwin. Tropical: a humid wet season (November to April) with storms and the risk of cyclones, then a dry season of clear warm days. The population is young and transient, with many defence families.
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: NT Government public transport · Tourism NT · Transperth · Tourism Western Australia