Are you considering a move to Australia or already living there and wondering how your expenses stack up across different regions? Understanding the cost of living in Australia is crucial for students, migrants, families, and professionals planning their budgets. Whether you're relocating for study, work, or a better lifestyle, knowing the city-wise living costs can help you make informed decisions. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the Australia cost of living by city, including popular locations like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and lesser-known areas like Alice Springs. You'll also get an overview of Australia living expenses per month, covering housing, food, transport, and more.
The Australian average cost of living per month depends heavily on several factors, including your lifestyle preferences, household size, income bracket, and—most importantly—where you choose to live. Australia is known for its high living standards, modern infrastructure, and excellent healthcare and education systems. However, these benefits come at a cost that varies considerably across different cities and regions.
For a single individual, the cost of living typically ranges from AUD 2,000 to AUD 3,000 per month. This estimate covers essential expenses such as rent, utilities, food, transportation, mobile/internet, and occasional entertainment. Students and budget-conscious individuals living in shared accommodations or regional areas may spend closer to the lower end, while those residing in metropolitan hubs like Sydney or Melbourne will likely spend more due to higher rental and service costs.
For a family of four, the Australia living expenses per month can stretch anywhere between AUD 4,500 to AUD 6,000. These costs factor in larger housing needs, increased grocery bills, school-related expenses, childcare (if applicable), healthcare, transportation (possibly two cars), and leisure activities. In cities where child care and housing are particularly expensive—like Sydney or Melbourne—families may even spend beyond this range.
It’s also worth noting that the Australian cost of living by city can differ drastically. For instance, while the cost of living in Sydney and living cost in Melbourne are at the higher end due to their global city status, cities like Adelaide, Perth, or even Gold Coast offer a more relaxed lifestyle with relatively lower monthly costs. In contrast, remote areas like Alice Springs may surprise newcomers with higher grocery and utility prices due to logistical challenges, despite having cheaper housing.
Let’s dive deeper into how various Australian cities compare when it comes to monthly expenses and which one might align best with your financial situation and lifestyle preferences.
The cost of living in Sydney is known to be among the highest in Australia, and for good reason. As the country’s largest and most dynamic metropolis, Sydney boasts a thriving economy, global career opportunities, world-class educational institutions, and an unbeatable coastal lifestyle. However, these perks come with a significant price tag.
Sydney is not just the financial capital of Australia—it’s also a cultural melting pot, drawing professionals, students, and families from across the globe. Naturally, this popularity drives up demand for housing, education, and services, which in turn elevates living costs.
Let’s break down the average monthly expenses for a single person living in Sydney:
As seen in the chart above, a single person would need approximately AUD 3,850 per month to live comfortably in Sydney’s inner suburbs or CBD. This figure can vary depending on lifestyle, housing choice, and commuting distance.
For a family of four, the cost of living in Sydney can climb even higher due to larger accommodation needs, schooling, and daily household expenses. The monthly average ranges between AUD 6,500 and AUD 7,000, particularly if the family is renting a 2–3 bedroom apartment or house near the city.
Here’s a typical breakdown:
Rent (3-bedroom in city or closer suburbs): AUD 4,000 – 4,500
Utilities & Internet: AUD 400 – 500
Groceries: AUD 1,200 – 1,500
Transportation: AUD 300 – 400
Childcare/Education/Other: AUD 600 – 800
Total Estimated for Families: AUD 6,500 – 7,000
Despite the high cost, many still choose Sydney for its career opportunities, vibrant lifestyle, and excellent infrastructure. If you’re seeking a balance between affordability and quality living, affordable family suburbs in Sydney include:
Blacktown – known for its multicultural vibe and family-friendly amenities
Penrith – offers spacious homes and access to the Blue Mountains
Liverpool – an upcoming area with good schools and transport connectivity
Campbelltown – popular for budget housing and growing community services
These suburbs are more cost-effective than inner-city areas while still offering a high quality of life. Commuting might be slightly longer, but many residents find the trade-off worthwhile for reduced rent and a more spacious living environment.
The living cost in Melbourne is slightly more affordable than in Sydney, yet it remains higher than the Australia average cost of living, especially in central areas. As the capital of Victoria, Melbourne is a popular destination for students, skilled migrants, and families. With its rich arts scene, famous coffee culture, thriving job market, and excellent public transport, it’s easy to see why many choose to call this vibrant city home.
Melbourne has been consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities. While this title reflects the city’s high quality of life, it also points to elevated living costs. That said, you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle here—if you budget wisely and choose your location carefully.
As the chart shows, a single individual living in central Melbourne would typically spend around AUD 3,450 per month. Living in outer suburbs, house-sharing, or choosing student accommodations can help reduce these costs significantly—especially for international students and young professionals.
For a family of four, the living cost in Melbourne typically ranges between AUD 5,500 to AUD 6,000 per month. Families tend to spend more on rent, groceries, schooling, and transportation—especially if they live close to the city or need larger housing.
Here’s what a typical monthly budget might look like:
Rent (3-bedroom apartment/house in city or inner suburb): AUD 3,200 – 3,800
Utilities & Internet: AUD 350 – 450
Groceries: AUD 1,200 – 1,400
Transportation (public or car-related costs): AUD 350 – 450
Childcare/Schooling/Leisure: AUD 500 – 700
Total Estimated for Families: AUD 5,500 – 6,000
Keep in mind that childcare in Australia can be expensive, depending on your eligibility for subsidies. Families that qualify for rebates from Centrelink or use government-funded preschools may spend less.
When evaluating the average cost of living in Victoria Australia, it becomes evident that Melbourne plays a major role in shaping the state’s financial landscape. While regional Victoria—such as Ballarat, Geelong, or Bendigo—offers significantly lower rents and utility costs, Melbourne’s real estate and living expenses drive up the state average.
For example:
1-bedroom apartment in regional Victoria: ~AUD 1,200 – 1,500/month
Groceries and utilities may cost 15–20% less in regional areas
Childcare and school fees are generally more affordable outside Melbourne
Those willing to live outside of the city while commuting in for work can enjoy a better cost–lifestyle balance. It’s a popular choice among families seeking affordability without compromising on access to job opportunities or city amenities.
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is growing fast and offers a balanced lifestyle with relatively lower costs. The average cost of living in Brisbane Australia is ideal for students and families alike.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,800
Utilities & Internet: AUD 200
Food & Groceries: AUD 500
Transportation: AUD 170
Miscellaneous: AUD 250
Total: AUD 2,920/month
Families may spend around AUD 5,000/month. Brisbane's climate and affordability make it an attractive destination for migrants.
The Gold Coast is a coastal city popular for tourism and surfing. It's also emerging as a viable living option for families and digital nomads. The average cost of living in Gold Coast Australia is lower than in major metros.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,700
Utilities & Internet: AUD 190
Food & Groceries: AUD 480
Transportation: AUD 160
Miscellaneous: AUD 220
Total: AUD 2,750/month
It’s a great choice for those who prefer a beach lifestyle with decent urban amenities.
Located in Western Australia, Perth is known for its stunning beaches and mining industry. The cost of living in Perth is moderate but can vary depending on how close you live to the CBD.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,900
Utilities & Internet: AUD 210
Food & Groceries: AUD 500
Transportation: AUD 180
Miscellaneous: AUD 250
Total: AUD 3,040/month
Families can manage well on around AUD 5,200/month. The job market here is strong in energy, mining, and construction sectors.
Adelaide is one of Australia’s most affordable capital cities. The Adelaide cost of living is ideal for students, retirees, and those looking to stretch their dollar.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,500
Utilities & Internet: AUD 190
Food & Groceries: AUD 470
Transportation: AUD 160
Miscellaneous: AUD 200
Total: AUD 2,520/month
A family can expect to spend around AUD 4,500/month. Education and public transport are also reasonably priced here.
If you're heading to Australia's outback, Alice Springs provides a unique living experience. The Alice Springs cost of living can be slightly higher in terms of groceries due to transport costs, but housing can be cheaper.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,300
Utilities & Internet: AUD 200
Food & Groceries: AUD 550
Transportation: AUD 150
Miscellaneous: AUD 220
Total: AUD 2,420/month
It's perfect for those working in healthcare, education, or remote industries.
Queensland offers multiple cities to choose from, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, and Townsville. The average cost of living in Queensland Australia ranges between AUD 2,700 to AUD 3,200 for individuals.
You can enjoy a good quality of life at a relatively lower cost compared to NSW or Victoria.
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is growing fast and offers a balanced lifestyle with relatively lower costs. The average cost of living in Brisbane Australia is ideal for students and families alike.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,800
Utilities & Internet: AUD 200
Food & Groceries: AUD 500
Transportation: AUD 170
Miscellaneous: AUD 250
Total: AUD 2,920/month
Families may spend around AUD 5,000/month. Brisbane's climate and affordability make it an attractive destination for migrants.
The Gold Coast is a coastal city popular for tourism and surfing. It's also emerging as a viable living option for families and digital nomads. The average cost of living in Gold Coast Australia is lower than in major metros.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,700
Utilities & Internet: AUD 190
Food & Groceries: AUD 480
Transportation: AUD 160
Miscellaneous: AUD 220
Total: AUD 2,750/month
It’s a great choice for those who prefer a beach lifestyle with decent urban amenities.
Located in Western Australia, Perth is known for its stunning beaches and mining industry. The cost of living in Perth is moderate but can vary depending on how close you live to the CBD.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,900
Utilities & Internet: AUD 210
Food & Groceries: AUD 500
Transportation: AUD 180
Miscellaneous: AUD 250
Total: AUD 3,040/month
Families can manage well on around AUD 5,200/month. The job market here is strong in energy, mining, and construction sectors.
Adelaide is one of Australia’s most affordable capital cities. The Adelaide cost of living is ideal for students, retirees, and those looking to stretch their dollar.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,500
Utilities & Internet: AUD 190
Food & Groceries: AUD 470
Transportation: AUD 160
Miscellaneous: AUD 200
Total: AUD 2,520/month
A family can expect to spend around AUD 4,500/month. Education and public transport are also reasonably priced here.
If you're heading to Australia's outback, Alice Springs provides a unique living experience. The Alice Springs cost of living can be slightly higher in terms of groceries due to transport costs, but housing can be cheaper.
Rent (1-bedroom in city): AUD 1,300
Utilities & Internet: AUD 200
Food & Groceries: AUD 550
Transportation: AUD 150
Miscellaneous: AUD 220
Total: AUD 2,420/month
It's perfect for those working in healthcare, education, or remote industries.
Queensland offers multiple cities to choose from, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, and Townsville. The average cost of living in Queensland Australia ranges between AUD 2,700 to AUD 3,200 for individuals.
You can enjoy a good quality of life at a relatively lower cost compared to NSW or Victoria.
Australia Cost of Living Per Month: Summary
Understanding the Australia cost of living per month is essential if you’re planning to study, work, or migrate Down Under. Whether you're moving alone, with a partner, or as a family, budgeting accurately will help you adjust smoothly to your new environment and avoid financial stress.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend monthly, based on the national averages and current trends in 2025:
If you’re relocating alone, your monthly expenses will primarily depend on your housing choice, city of residence, and lifestyle. A single person renting a one-bedroom apartment in a major city like Sydney or Melbourne could easily hit the higher end of this range. In smaller cities or regional towns, you could manage comfortably with around AUD 2,500–3,000 per month.
Typical expenses include:
Rent (shared or small unit): AUD 1,200–2,500
Utilities & Internet: AUD 200–300
Food & Groceries: AUD 400–600
Public transport & Miscellaneous: AUD 300–500
This estimate covers a modest but comfortable lifestyle including food, travel, and basic leisure.
Couples living together can share major expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries, which helps reduce individual costs. Most couples living in capital cities find that a budget of AUD 4,200–5,500 per month is sufficient for rent, food, transport, healthcare, and occasional entertainment.
Rent (1–2 bedroom apartment): AUD 2,500–3,000
Utilities & Internet: AUD 300–400
Groceries: AUD 700–900
Transportation: AUD 300–400
Miscellaneous: AUD 400–800
This range provides for a comfortable urban lifestyle with occasional travel and dining out.
For families, the Australia living expenses per month increase significantly. The most substantial costs are housing, groceries, childcare/schooling, and transportation. A family of four should budget anywhere from AUD 4,500 to AUD 7,000 per month, depending on where they live and whether both parents are working.
Rent (3-bedroom home): AUD 3,000–4,000
Utilities & Internet: AUD 400–500
Groceries: AUD 1,000–1,400
Transport: AUD 400–600
Childcare/School Fees/Leisure: AUD 500–1,000
If you're living in high-cost cities like Sydney or Melbourne, expenses can easily reach or exceed the upper end of this range. However, choosing more affordable cities like Adelaide or Perth, or moving to regional areas, can reduce your monthly outlay.
When planning your relocation, it’s crucial to align your monthly expenses with your expected income. The average salary in Australia as of 2025 ranges from AUD 90,000–100,000 per year, depending on your profession and experience. Knowing this can help you evaluate whether your potential job will support your desired lifestyle.
Additionally, if you're navigating visa processes, working with the best migration agent can help you avoid errors, improve approval chances, and reduce delays. A good agent can also assist with job and accommodation advice, making your transition smoother.
Don’t forget: Preparing for the Australia migration English test is vital, especially if you're applying under skilled migration or student visa categories. A high test score improves your eligibility and opens doors to more visa options.
The Australia average cost of living varies widely across cities, regions, and personal circumstances. Budgeting realistically is essential, whether you're a student, a professional, or a family.
If you're aiming to reduce your expenses:
Consider living in more affordable cities like Adelaide, Perth, or Brisbane
Look into shared housing, especially in high-demand cities
Research public schools and government benefits if migrating with children
Explore affordable family suburbs in Sydney like Blacktown, Penrith, or Campbelltown
Always remember that the Australian cost of living by city can be very different—and choosing your location wisely will make a big difference in how far your money goes.
It depends on the city. Sydney and Melbourne are among the most expensive, while Adelaide and Alice Springs are more affordable.
Adelaide and Alice Springs are considered the most affordable cities in terms of rent and daily expenses.
On average, a student should budget around AUD 2,000 to AUD 2,500/month depending on the city and lifestyle.
Sydney consistently ranks as the most expensive city in terms of rent and overall cost of living.
Yes. If you're looking for budget-friendly living, consider affordable family suburbs in Sydney or outer suburbs in Melbourne and Brisbane.
By understanding the Australia cost of living by city, you can make smarter financial decisions whether you're a student, professional, or planning a family move. Each city offers a unique lifestyle and budget range, so take the time to assess which suits you best.
