Which city is the biggest on the west coast of Australia?

Travel Destinations

By Felicity Long

West Coast of Australia

The west coast of Australia is home to some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and cities. The region stretches over thousands of kilometers, from the Kimberley region in the north to the Margaret River region in the south. With a plethora of stunning beaches, national parks, and unique wildlife, the west coast of Australia is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Search for Australia’s Biggest City

When it comes to determining the biggest city on the west coast of Australia, there are several factors to consider. While population size is an obvious consideration, other factors such as land area, economic activity, and cultural significance can also be taken into account. Through a thorough search and analysis of these factors, we can determine which city reigns supreme on the west coast of Australia.

Criteria for Determining Size

The criteria for determining the size of a city can be complex, but a few key factors are often used. Population size is the most obvious consideration, as it indicates the number of people living within a city’s limits. However, land area is also important, as a city may have a large population but a relatively small land area. Other factors to consider include economic activity, cultural significance, and infrastructure.

The Top 5 Cities on the West Coast

After considering these factors, we have determined the top 5 cities on the west coast of Australia. These cities have been ranked according to their population size, land area, economic activity, and cultural significance.

5th Place: Geraldton

Geraldton is a coastal city located approximately 420 kilometers north of Perth. With a population of around 37,000 people, it is the fifth-largest city on the west coast of Australia. While Geraldton has a relatively small land area compared to other cities on this list, it is a significant hub for agriculture and mining in the surrounding region.

4th Place: Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Kalgoorlie-Boulder is a mining town located approximately 600 kilometers east of Perth. It has a population of around 30,000 people and a land area of over 95 square kilometers, making it the fourth-largest city on the west coast of Australia. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is known for its rich mining history and is home to the Super Pit, one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the world.

3rd Place: Karratha

Karratha is a coastal town located approximately 1,500 kilometers north of Perth. With a population of around 16,000 people and a land area of over 15,000 square kilometers, it is the third-largest city on the west coast of Australia. Karratha is a significant hub for mining and natural gas production in the surrounding region.

2nd Place: Bunbury

Bunbury is a coastal city located approximately 175 kilometers south of Perth. With a population of around 75,000 people and a land area of over 65 square kilometers, it is the second-largest city on the west coast of Australia. Bunbury is a significant hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism in the surrounding region.

The Winner: Perth

The largest city on the west coast of Australia is Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. With a population of over 2 million people and a land area of over 6,400 square kilometers, Perth is a bustling metropolis that is home to a diverse range of industries and communities. Perth is known for its stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and vibrant arts and music scenes.

Perth’s Population Size and Growth

Perth’s population growth has been steady over the past few decades, with an average annual growth rate of 2.5% between 2011 and 2016. This growth can be attributed to a range of factors, including increased migration, a strong economy, and a high quality of life.

Conclusion: Perth Reigns Supreme

While there are many beautiful and significant cities on the west coast of Australia, Perth is undoubtedly the largest and most important. With a thriving economy, diverse communities, and stunning natural landscapes, Perth is a city that continues to attract people from all over the world.

Additional Considerations for City Size

While population size and land area are important factors to consider when determining the size of a city, there are many other factors that can also be taken into account. For example, a city’s economic activity, cultural significance, and infrastructure can all contribute to its overall size and importance. Ultimately, the size of a city is determined by a range of factors, and each city on the west coast of Australia has its own unique characteristics and contributions to offer.

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Felicity Long

Felicity Long, a seasoned travel journalist with 15+ years of experience, specializes in exploring Europe, family travel, and skiing, as evident in her book "Great Escapes: New England" (The Countryman Press). She edits the Europe eNewsletter and contributes significantly to TravelAsker's destinations sections. Felicity has received esteemed awards, including the Cacique and Yo Leonardo Awards, in recognition of her outstanding international travel writing accomplishments.

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