Cockburn WA is quickly becoming a top choice for people looking for a well-rounded, affordable, and convenient place to live — whether you’re moving from another part of Perth, interstate, or overseas.
Located about 25 minutes south of the Perth CBD, Cockburn is made up of several suburbs including Success, Atwell, Hammond Park, Aubin Grove, Beeliar, Yangebup, Spearwood, and coastal Coogee. Each has its own personality, but all share a common appeal: good access to public transport, shopping centres, schools, green spaces, and the beach — without the high cost of inner-city or beachfront living.
While it may not be one of Perth’s trendiest or most talked-about areas, Cockburn offers something many people are quietly searching for: space, safety, and simplicity — with everything you need close by. It’s an area that suits a wide range of people — from first-home buyers and young families, to downsizers and those working in nearby industrial or commercial zones.
With a growing population and steady development of public infrastructure, Cockburn is no longer just a stop between Fremantle and Rockingham — it’s a destination in its own right. Locals love the balance of suburban comfort with access to nature, community facilities, and major road and rail links.
If you’re wondering whether Cockburn could be the right fit for your next move, here are 10 real reasons why more people are choosing to live in Cockburn WA:
1. More Affordable Than Many Nearby Suburbs
Cockburn WA offers more affordable housing options than many suburbs located closer to the Perth CBD or along the coastline. For buyers and renters alike, this southern corridor suburb presents an opportunity to enjoy a well-connected lifestyle without the premium prices found in areas like Fremantle, South Perth, or Cottesloe.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer looking for a modern property in a new estate like Hammond Park or Aubin Grove, or someone seeking a larger block with a backyard in more established suburbs like Spearwood or Yangebup, Cockburn provides more space and better value for your money.
As property prices continue to rise across Perth, many people are turning their attention to suburbs like Cockburn, where it’s still possible to find homes that suit family living, remote work setups, or downsizing goals — without sacrificing access to public transport, local shopping centres, and coastal attractions.
2. A Great Mix of Suburbs
From newer, family-oriented communities like Aubin Grove, Hammond Park, and Success, to more established suburbs such as Spearwood and Yangebup, the City of Cockburn offers a diverse mix of housing styles and neighbourhood vibes. This variety means that no matter your lifestyle or stage of life, there’s likely a suburb in Cockburn WA that fits your needs.
If you’re looking for a modern home in a quiet, residential setting, areas like Hammond Park and Aubin Grove are popular with young families due to their newer estates, well-kept parks, and close proximity to schools and childcare centres. On the other hand, suburbs like Spearwood and Yangebup offer larger blocks, mature gardens, and a more traditional suburban feel, making them attractive to those who value space and established surroundings.
Prefer to be near the coast? Coogee offers a more breezy, beachside atmosphere, while Success and Cockburn Central put you closer to shops, public transport, and urban conveniences. This mix of environments within one local government area is one of the reasons Cockburn is such a popular choice for people moving to Perth’s southern suburbs.
3. Good Access to Perth and the South
With Cockburn Central Station and the Kwinana Freeway right on the doorstep, getting around from Cockburn is quick and convenient. The Mandurah train line connects directly to Perth CBD, making it a practical choice for commuters working in the city, students attending universities, or anyone needing regular access to central Perth. Trains also run south to Mandurah, providing a straightforward route for beach days, visiting friends, or short breaks away.
For drivers, the Kwinana Freeway provides fast access both north and south, and Armadale Road and Beeliar Drive link to neighbouring suburbs and shopping centres with ease. Many residents appreciate being just far enough from the busy city centre to enjoy peace and space, but still close enough to reach key destinations without hassle. Whether you travel daily or just want the option for a quick city visit or a weekend trip down south, Cockburn WA offers strong transport links that make life simpler.
4. Close to the Beach
iving in Cockburn WA means you’re only a short drive from some of Perth’s most relaxed coastal spots, including Coogee Beach and Woodman Point Reserve. While Cockburn itself isn’t directly on the coast, you can still enjoy a beachside lifestyle without paying premium coastal property prices.
Coogee Beach is well-loved by locals for its calm waters, jetty, and family-friendly atmosphere — ideal for morning walks, weekend swims, and casual picnics. Just around the corner, Woodman Point Reserve offers shaded parkland, barbecue areas, bike paths, and walking trails, making it a popular destination for weekend outings and school holidays.
For many residents, this easy access to the beach is one of the highlights of living in Cockburn — offering all the coastal benefits without the high-density crowds or elevated costs of beachfront suburbs. Whether you’re a nature lover, swimmer, or just enjoy watching the sunset over the ocean, Cockburn’s location gives you the best of both worlds: suburban comfort with the coast just minutes away.
5. Plenty of Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Cockburn WA is well known for its abundance of parks, playgrounds, and walking trails — making it a great place to live for families, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts. Many of its suburbs are planned with green space in mind, providing residents with easy access to natural areas and recreational facilities.
One of the standout features is the Beeliar Wetlands, a unique and peaceful nature reserve that stretches through parts of Cockburn. With well-maintained walking paths, scenic lakes, and diverse birdlife, it offers a welcome escape from suburban life — right in your backyard. It’s a favourite for morning walks, weekend strolls, and school holiday adventures.
In addition to the wetlands, you’ll find local parks and play areas in suburbs like Aubin Grove, Atwell, and Hammond Park, many with shaded seating, BBQ facilities, and play equipment for children. These spaces not only encourage a healthy, active lifestyle but also help build a sense of community.
Whether you’re walking the dog, enjoying a jog, or taking the kids out to play, Cockburn’s mix of suburban convenience and natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for those who value outdoor living.
6. Local Shops and Services Are Well Covered
Cockburn Gateway Shopping City is the main retail and lifestyle hub for residents living in Cockburn and surrounding suburbs. Conveniently located near Cockburn Central Station and the Kwinana Freeway, it features over 170 stores, including major supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, and ALDI, as well as department stores such as Kmart, Big W, and a range of specialty retailers.
Whether you’re doing the weekly grocery run, picking up school supplies, or grabbing a coffee with friends, Cockburn Gateway offers a well-rounded shopping experience without needing to travel far. There are also essential services on-site — including medical centres, banks, pharmacies, and cafes — making it a true one-stop destination for daily needs.
Right next door is the Cockburn ARC (Aquatic and Recreation Centre), a standout facility in the region. It includes indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a large gym, fitness classes, basketball courts, and a wellness area. It’s also the training base for the Fremantle Dockers AFL team, adding to its community value.
Together, Cockburn Gateway and Cockburn ARC make this part of the suburb one of the most convenient and active zones for shopping, fitness, and recreation in Perth’s southern corridor.
7. Family-Friendly Environment
Cockburn is a family-focused area with everything parents need to raise children in a safe, supportive, and well-connected environment. Across its suburbs, you’ll find a strong network of public and private schools, early learning centres, child care facilities, medical clinics, and local sports clubs that make day-to-day family life more manageable.
Suburbs like Atwell and Success are particularly popular with young families and first-home buyers, offering a mix of modern homes, quiet streets, and access to parks, playgrounds, and reputable schools such as Atwell Primary School, Harmony Primary School, and Emmanuel Catholic College. These neighbourhoods are known for their welcoming atmosphere, with many parents choosing to stay long-term due to the strong sense of community.
There are also plenty of options for before and after school care, family day care services, and local sports programs, making Cockburn a convenient place for working parents. With healthcare clinics, dental practices, and allied health services located throughout the area, families in Cockburn WA have access to the essential services they need close to home.
8. A Strong and Growing Community
Cockburn WA is home to a diverse and welcoming community that continues to grow year after year. With people relocating from across Perth, regional WA, interstate, and even overseas, the area has developed a reputation for being inclusive, down-to-earth, and easy to settle into — especially for those new to Western Australia or the southern suburbs.
This diversity is reflected in the range of cultural backgrounds, languages, and family types you’ll see throughout the neighbourhoods, as well as in local businesses, restaurants, and community services. Many schools in Cockburn celebrate this multicultural environment with events and programs that promote inclusion and shared values.
Community life is active and accessible, with regular local events, workshops, farmers markets, and gatherings hosted by community centres and the City of Cockburn. Whether you’re attending a class at Cockburn ARC, joining a local parents’ group, or just chatting with neighbours at the park, new locals often say they feel welcomed and at home not long after moving in.
9. Convenient for Day-to-Day Living
Cockburn WA is a highly convenient place to live, with most everyday essentials located just minutes from home. Whether you need to visit a GP, drop the kids off at school, grab groceries, or squeeze in a gym session, you’ll find what you need within easy reach in suburbs like Success, Atwell, Hammond Park, and Spearwood.
The area is home to a wide range of services, including medical centres, dental clinics, pharmacies, child care centres, local gyms, and shopping outlets. For food and dining, you’ll find casual restaurants, takeaway options, and cosy cafes offering good coffee and breakfast — no need to travel into the city just for a weekend brunch.
While Cockburn doesn’t have the boutique or luxury feel of some inner-city suburbs, it makes up for it with practicality and ease of access. Everything from weekly errands to after-school activities and fitness routines can usually be done within a short drive or even a walk, depending on your suburb. This convenience is one of the key reasons why so many locals enjoy living in Cockburn — it simplifies life without compromising on comfort.
Want to explore more about Cockburn’s suburbs, schools, local businesses, and things to do?
Browse our [Local Directory] or [Neighbourhood Insights] to help plan your move.
- Cockburn Local Business Directory
- Cockburn Dinning Guide
- Cockburn Shopping Experience
- Cockburn Parks & Nature
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