Claremont has reigned supreme as the top median house price performer for the September quarter, rising 7.1 per cent to $1.5 million.

It is the first time in more than five years a western suburb has topped the best quarterly performers list.

Real Estate Institute of WA data revealed more than 100 homes changed hands in the suburb during the year to September, with a $7 million sale topping the list.

Acton Cottesloe director Bev Heymans said Claremont's boost in popularity was because of factors including its proximity to the city and its central location to many private schools.

"It now offers something for all types of buyers, from townhouses and apartments, to houses on small or large blocks," she said. "Neighbouring areas might just offer homes on large blocks and therefore only attract one type of buyer."

Abel McGrath Claremont - The Property People principal Simon McGrath said West Australians returning from overseas and the Eastern States were prominent buyers.

Naomi Klopper and Tom Van Hagen moved from Subiaco to a two-storey character home in July so Mr Van Hagen's daughters Ella and Abby could live closer to their school, Methodist Ladies' College.

"We fell in love with this house - it's beautiful," Ms Klopper said.

"Tom is English and it's quite an English-looking house and it has such a nice big garden.

"We wanted a really big house and it's quite quirky with lots of character."