Welcome to Tom Price, Western Australia
Discover life in the heart of the Pilbara, where a close-knit community, strong resources sector and spectacular natural landscapes offer a distinctive regional lifestyle.
1. About Tom Price
Located in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, Tom Price is the highest town above sea level in Western Australia and the gateway to Karijini National Park and the Hamersley Ranges.
The town was established around the iron ore industry, which continues to play an important role in the local economy and employment. Despite its remote location, Tom Price provides many everyday services, including a supermarket, hospital, medical services, shops, cafés, sporting facilities, parks and a public library.
For employees and families relocating to the Pilbara, Tom Price combines a strong community atmosphere with convenient access to some of Western Australia’s most spectacular natural environments.
2. Climate
Tom Price has a hot, semi-arid climate. Summers are very hot, while winter brings warm days and significantly cooler mornings and evenings.
Season -Typical temperature range
Summer (Dec–Feb) 22°C to 38°C
Autumn (Mar–May) 12°C to 34°C
Winter (Jun–Aug) 7°C to 26°C
Spring (Sep–Nov) 11°C to 36°C
Summer rainfall can be associated with thunderstorms and tropical weather systems. Residents should be prepared for high daytime temperatures and strong UV levels, while warmer clothing can be useful during cool winter mornings.
3. Finding a home
Housing in Tom Price primarily consists of detached houses, duplexes and townhouses, with a more limited selection of apartments and units.
Tom Price has experienced significant housing shortages and a highly competitive rental market. As an indicative guide, relocating employees may encounter weekly rents of approximately:
- 2-bedroom apartment, unit or townhouse: AUD900–1,300 per week
- 3-bedroom house: AUD1,300–1,900 per week
Availability can be limited and rental prices can change considerably. The Shire of Ashburton has previously reported average residential rents around $1,900 per week amid housing shortages. Employees should therefore begin their accommodation search well before relocating and check whether their employer provides housing or rental assistance.
4. Healthcare
Tom Price Hospital is the main public healthcare facility serving the town and surrounding community.
Services include:
- 24-hour emergency department
- Telehealth services
- Visiting specialist services
Visiting specialists provide services including paediatrics, gynaecology, obstetrics and surgical care.
Tom Price also has local medical and primary healthcare services. Residents requiring more complex or highly specialised treatment may need to travel to a larger Pilbara healthcare facility or Perth.
5. Schooling options for children
Families relocating to Tom Price have access to local primary and secondary education.
Local schooling options include:
- Tom Price Primary School
- North Tom Price Primary School
- Tom Price Senior High School
- St Luke’s College
Early childhood and childcare services are also available within the community.
Families should check current enrolment requirements, year levels and local intake areas directly with individual schools or the WA Department of Education before selecting accommodation.
6. Getting around Tom Price
Tom Price is a relatively compact regional town, but public transport options are limited compared with larger cities.
Public transport
There is no extensive metropolitan-style public transport network in Tom Price. Residents may use available local transport services, while regional coach services provide connections to selected Pilbara destinations.
Private vehicle
Most residents rely on a private vehicle for commuting, shopping, school activities and recreation. A four-wheel drive can also be useful for exploring more remote areas, although vehicle requirements vary according to road and weather conditions.
Drivers travelling outside town should plan ahead with adequate fuel and water and check road conditions before longer journeys.
The closest commercial airport is at Paraburdoo, approximately 70 kilometres from Tom Price, providing air connections with Perth.
7. Utilities and telecommunications
Tom Price has essential utilities and telecommunications services to support residents.
Utilities
- Electricity is provided through the town’s regional electricity network.
- Water and wastewater services are available within the township.
- Household waste and recycling services are managed by the Shire of Ashburton.
Internet and mobile
NBN and mobile telecommunications services are available within Tom Price. Coverage can become limited when travelling through remote areas of the Pilbara, so residents should check their provider’s coverage before regional trips.
Due to the town’s remote location, freight and online shopping deliveries may also take longer than in metropolitan areas.
8. Lifestyle and things to do in Tom Price
Tom Price offers an outdoor-focused lifestyle surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Pilbara.
Popular attractions, facilities and activities include:
- Karijini National Park, renowned for its spectacular gorges, waterfalls, swimming holes and walking trails.
- Mount Nameless/Jarndunmunha, offering panoramic views across Tom Price and the surrounding Hamersley Ranges.
- Vic Hayton Memorial Swimming Pool, providing swimming and recreation facilities for the community.
- Tom Price Skate Park, a popular recreation space for young people and families.
- Doug Talbot Park, featuring lawns, shady trees, playground equipment and BBQ facilities.
- Village Green, used for community markets, festivals and other local events.
- Tom Price Library, providing books, children’s activities and community programs.
Residents also enjoy camping, hiking, four-wheel driving, sport and exploring the surrounding Pilbara landscape.
For employees and families moving from a major city, Tom Price offers a very different pace of life. Its strong community, employment opportunities and proximity to Karijini National Park make it a unique place to establish a home in regional Western Australia.
Sources
- https://www.ashburton.wa.gov.au/community/about-the-shire/towns/tom-price.aspx
- https://www.ashburton.wa.gov.au/community/shire-facilities/tom-price-sport-recreational-facilities.aspx
- https://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_005072.shtml
- https://www.wacountry.health.wa.gov.au/Our-services/Pilbara/Pilbara-health-services/Hospitals-and-health-services
- https://www.education.wa.edu.au/pilbara
- https://www.ashburton.wa.gov.au/services/emergency-safety/fire-and-emergency.aspx