West Beach

WA 6450 • Rest of WA

1,483
Population (2021)
$51,688
Median Income
22.20 km²
Area
$350/wk
Median Rent
CoastalRuralBeachsideQuietEstablished

About West Beach

West Beach is a coastal rural locality situated within the Shire of Esperance in Western Australia's southern coast, approximately 720 kilometres south-east of Perth. Covering a large area of 22 square kilometres at sea level, the locality had a population of 1,483 at the 2021 Census. The median household income of $2,105 per week and a median age of 44 reflect a relatively prosperous, established community, with many residents employed in the agricultural and resource industries that underpin the Esperance economy.

West Beach is renowned for its proximity to some of Australia's most spectacular coastline, including the turquoise waters and white-sand beaches characteristic of the Esperance region and Cape Le Grand National Park nearby. Esperance town centre, with its supermarkets, medical services, restaurants, and marina, is just a short drive away. The area attracts nature-lovers, retirees, and families who value wide-open coastal living, and the locality's low density and large blocks offer a relaxed seaside lifestyle far from metropolitan pressures.

West Beach falls under postcode 6450 and is governed by Esperance Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Roe electorate.

📍 Location

Postcode
6450
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Rural
Timezone
Perth (UTC+8)
Coordinates
-33.89°, 121.85°
Statistical Area
Rest of WA
Area
22.20 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Transwa Coach (Route ES1) — Perth (East Perth Terminal) Approx. 9-10 hours

Commute to Perth CBD

Distance
720 km
By Train
No direct rail service. Transwa coach from Esperance to Perth takes approx. 9-10 hours.
By Car (Peak)
7-8 hours
By Car (Off-Peak)
7-8 hours

🛣️ Via South Western Highway and Albany Highway, or via Kalgoorlie. Esperance is a remote regional city; most residents fly or drive for major city trips.

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

West Beach is a spread-out coastal locality where a car is essential; Esperance town centre provides all major services a short drive away

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

🏠 Housing 2021 Census

Median Rent (weekly)
$350
Median Mortgage (monthly)
$1,733
Avg Household Size
2.5 people
Median Age
44 years
Social Housing (% of dwellings)
3.2%

17 state housing + 0 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)

🎓 Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census

School Sector Breakdown

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
1,487
Census 2021
1,483
0.3% decline

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
$40,456
Income 2021
$51,688
27.8% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

🌍 Country of Birth 2021 Census

Born in Australia 1,175
Born Overseas 222

Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)

  • 1. England 61
  • 2. New Zealand 33
  • 3. South Africa 20
  • 4. Philippines 11
  • 5. Canada 8
  • 6. India 8
  • 7. Netherlands 8
  • 8. Germany 7
  • 9. Thailand 7
  • 10. Hong Kong 6

🧬 Ancestry 2021 Census

Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)

English 685
Australian 601
Scottish 168
Irish 164
German 69
Italian 67
Australian Aboriginal 41
Dutch 28
New Zealander 24
Chinese 22

👨‍👩‍👧 Parents' Birthplace 2021 Census

933
Both parents born in Australia
282
Both parents born overseas
186
One parent AU, one overseas

🛐 Religion 2021 Census

No Religion
52.8%
Christianity
39.6%
Buddhism
0.9%
Sikhism
0.3%

📊 Age Distribution 2021 Census

0-4 years
86 (5.8%)
5-14 years
194 (13.1%)
15-19 years
88 (5.9%)
20-24 years
63 (4.2%)
25-34 years
170 (11.5%)
35-44 years
155 (10.5%)
45-54 years
217 (14.6%)
55-64 years
216 (14.6%)
65-74 years
180 (12.1%)
75-84 years
103 (6.9%)
85+ years
16 (1.1%)

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is West Beach known for? +

West Beach is known for its spectacular coastal setting near Esperance, with access to pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and the famous Cape Le Grand National Park — home to Lucky Bay, one of Australia's most photographed beaches. The area exemplifies the natural beauty that makes Esperance a popular destination.

How far is West Beach from Perth? +

West Beach is approximately 720 kilometres south-east of Perth CBD, a drive of around 7 to 8 hours via the South Western and Albany highways. Esperance Airport also provides regular flights to Perth.

Does West Beach have public transport? +

Public transport in West Beach and the broader Esperance area is very limited. Transwa operates a coach service between Esperance and Perth, but within the locality a car is essential. There is no rail service to Esperance.

What is the population of West Beach? +

According to the 2021 Census, West Beach has a population of 1,483 residents, a slight decrease from 1,487 in 2016. The locality maintains a stable, established community supported by Esperance's agricultural and service economy.

Is West Beach a good place to live? +

West Beach is ideal for those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle in one of Australia's most naturally beautiful regions. It suits retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, and families who prioritise access to beaches, national parks, and a tight-knit community over metropolitan conveniences.

What is the postcode for West Beach? +

The postcode for West Beach, Western Australia (Esperance region) is 6450.