Moving house can be a logistical puzzle, especially when your old lease ends before your new one begins, or if you're relocating to Perth from interstate or overseas and need a base while you find a permanent home. Whatever the reason, finding comfortable and convenient short-term accommodation in Perth is a common challenge for movers, and many people choose to work with Perth movers to make the process smoother.
Don't fret! Perth offers a range of options to suit various budgets and needs. Here’s your ultimate guide to securing short-term accommodation during your move.
1. Identify Your Needs: What Kind of Short-Term Stay Do You Require?
Before you start searching, clarify what's most important to you:
- Duration: A few nights, a few weeks, or a few months?
- Budget: What's your daily/weekly maximum?
- Location: Do you need to be close to schools, work, or specific amenities? Proximity to your new home can be a huge bonus.
- Amenities: Do you need a kitchen, laundry facilities, pet-friendly options, parking, or space for children?
- Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Most short-term options are furnished, but confirm this.
- Number of People/Pets: This will dictate the size of the accommodation.
Average Cost of Short-Term Accommodation in Perth (Per Week)
| Accommodation Type | Typical Weekly Cost | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serviced Apartments | $950–$1,600 | Families, longer stays | Full kitchen + weekly cleaning |
| Airbnb/Stayz Rentals | $650–$1,400 | Couples, families | Prices vary by suburb & season |
| Extended-Stay Hotels | $850–$1,500 | Professionals, solo movers | Kitchenette included |
| Student Accommodation (off-season) | $250–$450 | Budget movers, students | Limited availability outside uni breaks |
| Furnished Sublets/Rooms | $200–$350 (room) / $600–$900 (whole unit) | Singles, budget movers | Often share kitchens/bathrooms |
| Holiday Park Cabins | $550–$900 | Families, budget travellers | Cabins fully self-contained |
Popular Perth Areas for Short-Term Accommodation
| Area | Distance to CBD | Typical Weekly Cost | Why It’s Popular |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perth CBD | 0 km | $1,000–$1,800 | Walkability, near offices & transport |
| East Perth | 1–2 km | $850–$1,400 | Riverside, quiet, close to CBD |
| West Perth | 1 km | $900–$1,500 | Business district, good serviced apartments |
| South Perth | 3 km | $800–$1,300 | Scenic, ferry access, family-friendly |
| Subiaco | 4 km | $750–$1,200 | Trendy, close to train line |
| Fremantle | 20 km | $700–$1,200 | Cultural hub, great food options |
| Scarborough | 14 km | $750–$1,300 | Beach lifestyle, good holiday rentals |
| Joondalup | 28 km | $600–$1,000 | Affordable, good transport links |
Essential Factors Movers Should Check Before Booking
| Factor | Why It Matters | What to Confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Cancellation policy | Moving dates often shift | Free cancellation availability |
| Parking | Avoid daily fees | On-site, secure, or street parking |
| Laundry facilities | Saves time & money | In-unit, shared, or none |
| Wi-Fi speed | Essential for work | Check recent reviews |
| Pet policy | Strict rules vary | Written approval + fees |
| Bond or deposit | Airbnb/serviced apartments differ | Amount + refund conditions |
| Weekly cleaning | Convenience during stressful moves | Included or paid |
2. Explore Your Options: Where to Look in Perth
Perth offers a diverse range of short-term accommodation solutions.
Serviced Apartments
Pros: Offer hotel-like amenities (cleaning, reception) with the added bonus of a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. Great for families or those needing more space and self-catering.
Cons: Can be pricier than other options, especially for longer stays.
Where to look: Quest Apartment Hotels, Adina Apartment Hotels, The Sebel, Fraser Suites, or independent serviced apartments in areas like Perth CBD, West Perth, East Perth, South Perth, and Fremantle. Many offer discounted rates for extended stays (e.g., 7+ nights, 30+ nights).
Holiday Rentals / Airbnb / Stayz
Pros: Huge variety of properties from studios to large houses, often with unique character. Many are fully furnished and equipped, some are pet-friendly. Can be very cost-effective for groups or families.
Cons: Less consistent service than hotels. You're reliant on individual hosts. Availability can fluctuate based on tourist seasons.
Where to look: Airbnb, Stayz (part of Expedia Group), Booking.com, or local property management companies specialising in holiday rentals. Filter by "monthly stays" for better rates.
Extended Stay Hotels / Aparthotels
Pros: A hybrid between hotels and serviced apartments, often designed for longer stays with kitchenettes. You get hotel services without the full apartment price.
Cons: Kitchens might be smaller than serviced apartments.
Where to look: Look for brands like Citadines, Hyatt Regency (often has apartment-style rooms), or specific "extended stay" offerings from major hotel chains.
Student Accommodation (During Breaks)
Pros: Can be a very affordable option, especially outside university semesters. Often fully furnished rooms or apartments with shared facilities.
Cons: Can be basic, might have strict rules, and is often geared towards a younger demographic.
Where to look: Check with providers like UniLodge, Campus Perth, or specific university accommodation services for availability during holiday periods.
Furnished Subletting / Room Rentals
Pros: Can be very budget-friendly, offers a more local experience.
Cons: Less privacy, might require sharing living spaces, and can be harder to secure for very short durations.
Where to look: Facebook Marketplace (search for "Perth sublet" or "short term rental"), Gumtree, Flatmates.com.au. Exercise caution and always view the property if possible.
Caravan Parks / Holiday Parks
Pros: If you have a caravan or tent, this is a very affordable option. Many parks also offer self-contained cabins or chalets which can be good value.
Cons: Can be further from the CBD, might not suit everyone's comfort level.
Where to look: Various parks around Fremantle, Rockingham, or even further north/south.
3. Tips for a Smooth Search and Stay
- Book in Advance: Especially if you're moving during peak seasons (summer, school holidays), accommodation can fill up quickly and prices can rise.
- Be Flexible with Location: Broadening your search beyond just the immediate CBD can open up more affordable and available options in nearby suburbs (e.g., Fremantle, Scarborough, Subiaco, South Perth, Joondalup).
- Negotiate for Longer Stays: For stays longer than a week or two, don't hesitate to contact serviced apartments or Airbnb hosts directly to inquire about discounted long-term rates.
- Read Reviews: Always check recent reviews to ensure the accommodation meets your expectations for cleanliness, service, and accuracy of listing.
- Confirm Inclusions: Double-check what's included in the price (utilities, Wi-Fi, cleaning, parking, linen, kitchenware).
- Pet Policy: If you're moving with pets, confirm the pet-friendly policy in writing and any associated fees.
- Understand Cancellation Policies: Moving dates can shift, so be aware of cancellation terms.
Quick Takeaways for Short-Term Accommodation in Perth
- Assess Needs First: Determine budget, duration, location, and essential amenities.
- Top Options: Serviced apartments, holiday rentals (Airbnb/Stayz), and extended-stay hotels offer flexibility and amenities.
- Budget Alternatives: Consider student accommodation (during breaks), furnished sublets, or caravan park cabins for affordability.
- Book Early: Especially during peak seasons, secure your accommodation in advance.
- Negotiate: For longer stays, don't be afraid to ask for discounted rates.
Finding short-term accommodation in Perth doesn't have to be another moving headache. By knowing your options and planning ahead, you can secure a comfortable temporary home while you transition to your new life in this beautiful city.
FAQs
Q: Is it cheaper to stay in an Airbnb or a serviced apartment for a month in Perth?
It depends on the property and season. For a self-contained unit, an Airbnb or Stayz often offers competitive rates for longer stays, and you can sometimes negotiate directly with hosts for discounts. Serviced apartments can also offer excellent long-stay rates that include services like weekly cleaning, which might not be standard with all holiday rentals. Compare quotes for your specific dates and needs.
Q: Are there any pet-friendly short-term options in Perth?
Yes, many holiday rentals (Airbnb/Stayz) specifically advertise as pet-friendly, though they often charge an additional cleaning fee or require a pet bond. Some serviced apartment complexes also have specific pet-friendly rooms or policies. Always confirm directly with the provider before booking.
Q: Can I use short-term accommodation as a temporary address for mail redirection?
While possible, it's generally not recommended for official mail redirection (like from Australia Post) for more than a few days, as many short-term places (especially hotels/serviced apartments) may not hold mail or might have limited capacity. It's better to arrange for mail to be sent to a trusted friend/family member, or a PO Box if your stay is extended and you don't have a new permanent address yet.
Q: What areas are best for short-term stays if I need to commute to the CBD?
Areas like West Perth, East Perth, South Perth, and Northbridge offer excellent access to the CBD, often within walking distance or a short public transport ride. Suburbs along train lines (e.g., Subiaco, Leederville, Mount Lawley, or areas further north/south) also provide good commute options to the city while potentially offering more affordable accommodation.
Q: What amenities should I prioritise for a comfortable short-term stay during a move?
A fully equipped kitchen (to save money on eating out) and laundry facilities (to avoid laundromats) are usually top priorities for movers. Reliable Wi-Fi, parking (if you have a car), and a comfortable, quiet workspace (if you need to work remotely) are also highly valued.