The cost of living in Sydney is one of the most frequently asked questions by students, families, and professionals planning to move to Australia’s largest city. Sydney is vibrant, cosmopolitan, and full of opportunities, but it also comes with some of the highest living costs in the country. Whether you’re a single person, a couple, or a family, understanding the average cost of living in Sydney can help you plan your budget effectively. In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost of living in Sydney Australia—from rent and food to utilities, transportation, and lifestyle. We’ll also explore how expenses differ for singles, couples, and families so you know exactly what to expect.
For most residents, rent is the largest monthly expense. Depending on location, apartment type, and proximity to the city center, costs can vary significantly.
City Centre Apartments: A one-bedroom apartment in the CBD typically ranges from AUD 2,200–3,200 per month.
Suburban Living: The same apartment outside the center costs about AUD 1,600–2,400 per month.
Family Homes: A three-bedroom house in the city can cost anywhere between AUD 3,800–5,000 per month, while suburban equivalents may cost around AUD 2,600–3,500.
If you’re a student or a single professional, shared housing is a popular option. Renting a room in a shared apartment can lower your average living expenses in Sydney to AUD 1,000–1,400 per month.
Groceries and dining also form a big part of the average cost of living in Sydney per month.
Groceries: A single person spends about AUD 400–600 per month, while families spend around AUD 1,000–1,200.
Eating Out: A basic meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs AUD 20–25. A mid-range three-course meal for two can cost AUD 100–130.
Coffee Culture: With Sydney’s famous café lifestyle, expect to spend AUD 5–6 per cup of coffee.
Cooking at home is significantly cheaper than dining out, and many residents choose weekly grocery shopping at Aldi, Coles, or Woolworths to manage their average cost of living in Sydney per year.
The average cost of utilities in Sydney for a standard 85 m² apartment includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage.
Monthly Utilities: AUD 250–300
Internet (Unlimited broadband): AUD 70–90 per month
Families with larger homes often pay slightly more, but energy-saving appliances and solar installations are becoming common to reduce bills.
Sydney has a comprehensive public transport system of buses, trains, and ferries.
Opal Card (monthly pass): Around AUD 200–220
Single Bus/Train Ride: AUD 3.50–5.00 depending on distance
Taxi Start Fare: AUD 4.50, with AUD 2.20 per km
Car Owners: Fuel costs about AUD 2.10 per liter, plus insurance and parking.
Cycling and walking are also popular in inner-city areas, saving residents a significant amount on their average living expenses in Sydney.
For families, education and childcare form a significant part of the average cost of living in Sydney for a family.
Daycare costs around AUD 120–160 per day per child.
Weekly expenses can reach AUD 600–800, depending on hours and services.
Government rebates or subsidies may reduce costs for eligible residents.
Public Schools: Free for Australian citizens and permanent residents. However, international students may pay tuition fees, which vary by grade level.
Private Schools: Annual fees range between AUD 20,000–35,000, excluding uniforms, excursions, and extracurricular activities.
Catholic/Independent Schools: More affordable than private institutions, usually AUD 8,000–15,000 per year.
Overall, Sydney’s childcare and education costs make it one of the more expensive cities in Australia for families compared to Melbourne or Brisbane.
Healthcare in Australia is high quality, and residents have access to Medicare. However, international students and temporary residents need health insurance.
Health Insurance for Singles: AUD 120–180 per month.
Family Coverage: AUD 250–400 per month.
Medical visits without insurance can be expensive, so factoring this into your cost of living in Sydney for a couple or family is essential.
Sydney’s lifestyle costs vary depending on personal choices.
Gym Membership: AUD 70–100 per month.
Cinema Ticket: AUD 25–30 per person.
Concerts/Events: AUD 80–200 depending on the event.
Weekend Activities: Expect to spend AUD 150–250 for outings, including dining and entertainment.
Living in Sydney means enjoying beaches, parks, and free outdoor activities, which can balance out overall average living expenses in Sydney.
Average Cost of Living in Sydney – Summary Tables
When calculating the average cost of living in Sydney per year, here’s how the expenses typically break down:
Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment or shared accommodation
Monthly groceries (AUD 400–600)
Public transport and occasional taxis
Utilities, internet, and moderate lifestyle costs
Shared rent and bills, lowering individual costs
Groceries around AUD 900–1,000 monthly
Transport for two (Opal cards, fuel if car owners)
Entertainment, dining out, and healthcare expenses
Rent for larger 2–3 bedroom homes
Groceries and household needs (~AUD 1,200+ monthly)
Transport for multiple family members
Childcare or private school fees
Health insurance and lifestyle activities
Education and private healthcare can push yearly expenses higher.
A single person needs at least AUD 3,500–4,000 per month for rent, groceries, and lifestyle expenses. Shared housing can reduce this to around AUD 2,200–2,800.
Living as a couple in Sydney can be more cost-effective compared to living alone since many expenses are shared. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in the city costs around AUD 2,200–2,800 per month, which couples can split.
Utilities & Internet: Shared bills (electricity, water, internet) average AUD 300–400 monthly.
Food & Groceries: Joint grocery shopping costs about AUD 800–1,000 per month.
Transport: If both use public transport, monthly passes total around AUD 400–450. Owning a car may increase costs.
Dining & Lifestyle: Eating out, gym memberships, and entertainment can add AUD 500–700 monthly.
Overall, couples spend approximately AUD 4,500–5,000 per month, making shared living noticeably more affordable than solo living while enjoying Sydney’s lifestyle.
For a family of four, the average cost of living in Sydney ranges between AUD 7,000–8,000 per month. The higher expenses mainly come from rent, childcare, and schooling. Here’s the breakdown:
Rent: A 3-bedroom house or apartment in suburban Sydney costs around AUD 2,800–3,500 monthly.
Utilities & Internet: Families usually spend AUD 350–450 per month.
Food & Groceries: Monthly groceries average AUD 1,200–1,400, depending on eating habits.
Transport: For two adults and children, expect around AUD 500–600 per month.
Childcare/Education: One of the largest costs, ranging from AUD 1,200–2,000 monthly per child, depending on age and school type.
Healthcare & Insurance: Around AUD 250–400 per month.
Lifestyle & Entertainment: Families spend AUD 400–600 monthly on outings and leisure.
Early planning for childcare or school choices can significantly reduce long-term costs.
While Sydney tops the list as Australia’s most expensive city, the comparison with other cities highlights key differences:
Highest rental prices, especially in the CBD and beachside suburbs.
Lifestyle perks like iconic beaches, international business hubs, and vibrant nightlife.
Average monthly expenses for singles: AUD 3,800–4,000.
Around 10–15% cheaper than Sydney, particularly in rent and dining.
Known for cultural diversity, universities, and café culture.
Average monthly expenses for singles: AUD 3,200–3,500.
More affordable housing and utilities.
Popular among families seeking a lower cost of living in Australia with a warm climate.
Offer significantly lower living costs, quieter lifestyles, and affordable housing.
Overall, Sydney remains the priciest but offers unmatched career growth and global exposure.
Q1. What is the average cost of living in Sydney per month for a student?
A student living in shared accommodation spends around AUD 1,800–2,500 per month.
Q2. Is Sydney more expensive than Melbourne?
Yes, Sydney is 10–15% more expensive, especially for rent and childcare.
Q3. How much does a single person need to live comfortably in Sydney?
At least AUD 3,500 per month for rent, groceries, utilities, and entertainment.
Q4. What is the average cost of utilities in Sydney per month?
Utilities (electricity, water, heating, garbage) average around AUD 250–300 per month, plus AUD 70–90 for internet.
Q5. What is the average cost of living in Sydney per year for a family?
A family of four spends approximately AUD 85,000–95,000 annually.
The cost of living in Sydney is undeniably high, but with careful budgeting and smart choices, it’s possible to enjoy everything the city offers without financial stress. From shared rentals to free outdoor activities, residents can tailor their lifestyle according to income and family needs.
Understanding the average cost of living in Sydney per month helps you prepare for expenses, whether you’re a student, professional, or family planning to settle in one of the world’s most livable cities.
