1. Lifestyle: Urban Thrills vs. Laid-back Chills

• NOR (North of the River): Think urban sophistication mixed with coastal charm. The northern suburbs like Scarborough, Hillarys, and Joondalup offer a more bustling lifestyle with trendy cafes, nightlife, and shopping hubs. Perfect for those who want the action without the chaos of bigger cities. If you like to brunch more than you budget, the NOR vibe will fit you well.

• SOR (South of the River): Life south of the river, in places like Fremantle, Applecross, and Rockingham, is much more about relaxation and community. You’ll find fewer high-rises and more family-friendly spaces. The pace here is slower, with leafy streets and great parks. SOR folk will tell you they’ve cracked the code to the good life – and it involves more backyard BBQs and fewer parking fines.

2. Beaches: Surf’s Up or Sunset Spectacles?

• NOR: The northern beaches (like Scarborough) are surf-ready and social, attracting both locals and tourists looking to ride waves and soak up the sun. It’s also home to some of Perth’s most popular sunset spots, thanks to the uninterrupted views over the Indian Ocean.

• SOR: South beaches, like Cottesloe and Coogee, are more chilled out. You’ll see fewer party-goers and more families building sandcastles. If you’re more about dipping your toes in the water and catching up with friends over fish and chips, SOR’s got your back.

3. Cost of Living: Budget-Friendly or Blow-the-Budget?

• NOR: Living north of the river generally comes with a steeper price tag, thanks to proximity to employment hubs, universities, and healthcare facilities. Properties here tend to be more expensive, which makes it a popular choice for professionals and expats with a bit more cash to splash.

• SOR: South of the river is more affordable and offers larger homes with gardens, ideal for families or retirees. If your goal is to stretch your dollars while still enjoying life, SOR may be the winner. You might trade off a few high-end amenities, but you’ll gain bigger backyards and quieter streets.

4. Culture and Vibe: City Lights or Suburban Delights?

• NOR: NOR tends to have a more cosmopolitan vibe, with easy access to nightlife, entertainment venues, and events. You’ll find plenty of people who enjoy the latest in craft beer, food trucks, and sunset yoga classes.

• SOR: Fremantle (a key SOR area) is famous for its arts and music scene, with weekend markets, galleries, and live music filling the air. SOR has more of a grassroots, community-oriented feel – think more farmers’ markets and fewer nightclubs.

5. Commute and Public Transport

• NOR: Thanks to a more developed public transport network, NOR has easy connections to the city centre, especially through the Joondalup train line. If commuting into the CBD is part of your life, NOR offers smoother options.

• SOR: SOR is catching up with the new Metronet projects expanding train services. However, it’s still more car-dependent. The good news? Driving south means less traffic congestion, and let’s be honest – it’s easier to find a decent parking spot down there.

Which Side Wins?

Ultimately, the choice between NOR and SOR comes down to your lifestyle and priorities:

• NOR: Ideal for professionals, young couples, or anyone chasing an urban vibe with good public transport options.

• SOR: Best for families, retirees, or those who prefer peace and quiet with a side of community spirit.

Both sides offer stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and a relaxed Perth lifestyle. Whichever you choose, just remember: you’re never too far from the ocean or a cheeky Aussie pub.

So, what’s it going to be, mate – NOR or SOR? Either way, you’ll get plenty of sunshine, some of the world’s best beaches, and a lifestyle that’ll make the folks back home jealous. See you in Perth!