Is Mandurah a good place to live​? All your questions answered

Thinking about making the move and wondering, ‘Is Mandurah a good place to live?’ This is a question more and more people are asking, and for good reason.

Once known mainly as a laid-back holiday spot, Mandurah has quietly transformed into one of Western Australia’s most liveable cities. 

But it’s not just the beaches and laid-back lifestyle that make Mandurah appealing. When choosing a place to call home, factors like schools, job opportunities, community spirit and affordability all play a big part.

That’s why, in this guide, we’ll unpack all of that and more. From family life and commuting to building your dream home, we’ll help you get a real feel for what it’s like to live in Mandurah and whether it’s the right fit for your next chapter.

What’s it like to live in Mandurah?

Mandurah offers a lifestyle that’s tough to beat, and the locals will be the first to tell you that. From morning walks along the foreshore to weekends spent kayaking through the canals or picnicking in one of the many waterside parks, life here moves at a gentler, more enjoyable pace.

But don’t let its laid-back atmosphere fool you. Mandurah has grown into a thriving regional city with all the modern comforts you could want. In fact, over the past 30 years, the population has tripled and is expected to hit 120,000 by 2036. That kind of growth hasn’t happened by accident. It’s thanks to a seriously appealing blend of coastal city charm and everyday convenience.

This gorgeous corner of Western Australia is blessed with over 100km of stunning coastline and the vast Peel-Harvey Estuary, an incredible waterway twice the size of Sydney Harbour! 

Because of its prime location, Mandurah offers a lifestyle where water-based adventures are part of everyday living. Whether you love fishing, crabbing, boating or stand-up paddleboarding, there are countless ways to enjoy hours of outdoor fun here.

Plus, with more than 350 parks, reserves and green spaces dotted across the city, there’s no shortage of places to unwind or let the kids burn off energy.

Is Mandurah family-friendly?

Mandurah is a great destination for families, and not just because of its beautiful coastal lifestyle. It’s a place that comes with a sense of community where kids ride their bikes to the park, neighbours say hello, and mornings start with friendly waves and locally brewed coffee. 

You’ve got a fantastic mix of public and private schools, from early learning through to high school, as well as specialised programs and inclusive education options for kids who need a different approach.

There are also loads of ways to keep the kids active and entertained, with plenty of sports clubs, libraries, nature reserves and recreation centres that run everything from swimming lessons to youth programs and holiday activities. 

What’s working and commuting like in Mandurah?

When it comes to work, the city of Mandurah gives you a wide range of options. There’s a healthy mix of local job opportunities in growing industries like healthcare, aged care, education, tourism, retail, construction and hospitality. 

And if your job takes you to Perth? No hassle at all. The Mandurah train line gets you into the CBD in under an hour, or you can jump on the Kwinana Freeway and enjoy a coastal playlist with your morning coffee. It’s a commute that many make happily, knowing they get to come home to sunsets, sea breezes and beautiful space to unwind.

How affordable is it to live in Mandurah?

Compared to Perth, living in Mandurah gives you a lot more bang for your buck, especially when it comes to housing. The median price for a house, for example, sits around $560,000, which means you can often get a bigger home, a larger block, or even a place with water views for much less than you’d pay in the city!

Day-to-day living is refreshingly affordable as well. Groceries, childcare and dining out tend to cost a little less than in the metro area. And parking is usually free or much cheaper (a big win for families and commuters alike!). 

So, whether you’re a first homebuyer, upsizing, downsizing or investing, Mandurah makes it a whole lot easier to find something that suits your budget without sacrificing on lifestyle.

What should I know about building a home in Mandurah?

Mandurah’s coastal lifestyle is one of its biggest drawcards. But it also means there are a few extra things to keep in mind when building your dream home here.

The sea breezes, salty air and shifting coastal weather demand smart design choices and durable materials. It’s also important to build with finishes that can handle the conditions, layouts that maximise airflow, and orientation that takes full advantage of the natural light and those gorgeous views. Then there’s the behind-the-scenes stuff, like council approvals and estate-specific design rules. 

In short, there’s a lot to consider, and that’s where having a local builder like D.A. Burke by your side makes a world of difference. With decades of experience in luxury building homes right here in Mandurah, we know how to navigate all of that for you. We’ll make sure everything runs smoothly, exactly the way it should.   

Let’s build the home you’ve been dreaming of in Mandurah

If you’re chasing a lifestyle that blends natural beauty, laid-back living and a true sense of community, Mandurah might just be your dream move.

At D.A. Burke, we’re here to craft a home that perfectly fits your lifestyle. That might mean big windows to catch the ocean views, extra space for the kids to stretch out, or an easy flow from the kitchen to the alfresco. We shape every detail around how you want to live. Ready to make your move? Get in touch with our expert team today, and let’s start planning your forever home in Mandurah.