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Australia Cost of Living 2025

Cost of Living in Australia 2025: Expenses, Average Costs, and Tips

Vaishali Pandey
Updated On:
Apr 29, 2025

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The average cost of living in Australia for international students is AUD 29,710 per year, with some students spending over AUD 40,000, depending on location. This amounts to about AUD 1,200 per week. For context, a family of four's monthly expenses (excluding rent) are around INR 311,836 (AUD 5,766), while a single person's costs are INR 87,829 (AUD 1,624). Overall, the cost of living in Australia is 217.8% higher than in India, with rent being 509.4% more expensive.

By the end of this blog, you will know

  • The key factors that contribute to the cost of living in Australia.
  • How to plan and manage your finances effectively while studying in Australia.
  • The cost differences between major cities and regional areas in Australia.

What is the Cost of Living in Australia? Key Highlights

Here is an overview of the cost of living in Australia, including expenses for restaurants, markets, transportation, utilities, and more:

Restaurant

Cost (Australian Dollar)

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

25.00 A$

Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course

120.00 A$

McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)

15.00 A$

Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught)

11.00 A$

Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)

11.00 A$

Cappuccino (regular)

5.34 A$

Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)

4.09 A$

Water (0.33 litre bottle)

3.35 A$

Markets

Milk (regular), (1 litre)

2.34 A$

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)

3.77 A$

Rice (white), (1kg)

3.22 A$

Eggs (regular) (12)

6.46 A$

Local Cheese (1kg)

14.06 A$

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

13.01 A$

Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)

21.53 A$

Apples (1kg)

4.86 A$

Banana (1kg)

4.18 A$

Oranges (1kg)

4.44 A$

Tomato (1kg)

6.51 A$

Potato (1kg)

3.75 A$

Onion (1kg)

3.27 A$

Lettuce (1 head)

3.36 A$

Water (1.5 litre bottle)

2.38 A$

Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)

20.00 A$

Domestic Beer (0.5 litre bottle)

7.02 A$

Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle)

7.79 A$

Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro)

46.00 A$

Transportation

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

4.72 A$

Monthly Pass (Regular Price)

161.55 A$

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

5.50 A$

Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)

2.70 A$

Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)

58.00 A$

Gasoline (1 litre)

1.84 A$

Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car)

44,423.00 A$

Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car)

34,702.32 A$

Utilities (Monthly)

Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment

279.27 A$

Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data

41.66 A$

Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)

82.26 A$

Sports And Leisure

 

Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult

74.08 A$

Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend)

25.61 A$

Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat

22.00 A$

Childcare

Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child

2,417.34 A$

International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child

19,076.66 A$

Clothing And Shoes

1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)

114.06 A$

1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, ...)

81.12 A$

1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range)

159.79 A$

1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes

175.61 A$

Rent Per Month

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre

2,143.51 A$

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre

1,699.84 A$

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre

3,510.80 A$

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre

2,619.62 A$

Buy Apartment Price

Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre

10,543.75 A$

Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre

7,780.49 A$

Salaries And Financing

Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)

5,600.78 A$

Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate

6.38

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What is the Cost of Living in Australia Per Month?

The average monthly cost of living in Australia, excluding rent, ranges from AUD 1,400 to AUD 2,500. This covers basic living expenses like food, transportation, and healthcare. The cost can vary depending on your lifestyle and location. 

Below is the monthly accommodation costs in Australia (excluding rent):

Accommodation Monthly Cost (AUD) Monthly Cost (INR)
Homestays 450-1200 25,000-67,000
Halls of residence 440-1100 24,500-61,200
Apartment 750-1700 42,000-95,000
Shared apartment 650-950 36,000-53,000

City-Wise Cost of Living in Australia Per Month

The cost of living in Australia can vary greatly depending on the city. Below is a simplified table showing the monthly living expenses for each major city:

Australian City Cost of Living per Month (AUD) Cost of Living per Month (INR)
Canberra 4,310 ₹2,44,593
Sydney 3,982 ₹2,25,979
Melbourne 3,778 ₹2,14,402
Perth 3,774 ₹2,14,175
Brisbane 3,726 ₹2,11,451
Hobart 3,614 ₹2,05,095
Adelaide 3,502 ₹1,98,739
Darwin 3,486 ₹1,97,831

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Cost of Living in Major Australian Cities

Here is a simplified breakdown of the average cost of living in popular Australian cities for students, bachelors, couples, and families:

Sydney:

Area of Expense Students Bachelors Couples Families
Accommodation AUD 650–1,000 AUD 1,997 AUD 2,000–3,500 AUD 3,759
Food and Groceries AUD 754 AUD 863 AUD 150–250/week AUD 2,215
Transportation AUD 160 AUD 626 AUD 60–120/week AUD 1,626
Utilities AUD 190 AUD 177 AUD 200–300 AUD 273
Entertainment AUD 50–100 AUD 50–100 AUD 100–200/week AUD 300–800

Melbourne:

Area of Expense Students Bachelors Couples Families
Accommodation AUD 800–1,200 AUD 1,334 AUD 1,800–3,200 AUD 2,155
Food and Groceries AUD 500–600 AUD 566 AUD 140–220/week AUD 1,450
Transportation AUD 160 AUD 315 AUD 50–100/week AUD 803
Utilities AUD 220 AUD 121 AUD 180–270 AUD 181
Entertainment AUD 80–140 AUD 80–140 AUD 90–170/week AUD 120–480

Perth:

Area of Expense Students Bachelors Couples Families
Accommodation AUD 300–800 AUD 1,713 AUD 1,500–2,800 AUD 2,740
Food and Groceries AUD 696 AUD 872 AUD 120–200/week AUD 2,216
Transportation AUD 168 AUD 385 AUD 45–90/week AUD 997
Utilities AUD 147 AUD 204 AUD 160–240 AUD 327
Entertainment AUD 50–100 AUD 100–200 AUD 80–150/week AUD 300–500

Brisbane:

Area of Expense Students Bachelors Couples Families
Accommodation AUD 840–2,000 AUD 1,858 AUD 1,800–3,000 AUD 2,555
Food and Groceries AUD 560–1,120 AUD 851 AUD 140–220/week AUD 2,180
Transportation AUD 90–120 AUD 388 AUD 50–100/week AUD 998
Utilities AUD 170–215 AUD 175 AUD 180–270 AUD 257
Entertainment AUD 80–100 AUD 100–150 AUD 90–170/week AUD 300–400

Canberra:

Area of Expense Students Bachelors Couples Families
Accommodation AUD 400–500/week AUD 1,400–2,600 AUD 1,900–3,300 AUD 3,000–5,200
Food and Groceries AUD 100–150/week AUD 95–145/week AUD 145–230/week AUD 230–360/week
Transportation AUD 4.80/day AUD 40–70/week AUD 60–120/week AUD 100–200/week
Utilities AUD 20–50/week AUD 150–200/month AUD 200–300/month AUD 300–450/month
Entertainment AUD 40–80/week AUD 75–150/week AUD 100–200/week AUD 150–300/week

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Average Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

Here is the average monthly living expenses for international students in Australia:

Expense Cost Range (AUD)
Accommodation AUD 800 - AUD 2,000
Food and Groceries AUD 280 - AUD 480
Transportation AUD 75 - AUD 216
Utilities AUD 270 - AUD 490
Entertainment AUD 100 - AUD 120
Personal Expenses AUD 80 - AUD 90

How is the Living Cost in Australia for International Students Calculated?

When planning to study in Australia, international students need to consider various expenses that make up the total cost of living. These expenses typically include the following:

1. Tuition Costs

Fees for the academic program.

2. Accommodation Costs

Rent or homestay expenses.

3. Travel Costs

Public transportation, travel within Australia, and to/from home country.

4. Health Insurance Costs

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is required for international students.

5. Utility Costs

Charges for electricity, water, and gas.

6. Entertainment Costs

Expenses for activities like movies, sports, and leisure.

7. Personal Expenses

Miscellaneous costs such as clothing, toiletries, etc.

8. Food and Groceries

Daily meals, snacks, and supplies.

Accommodation Costs in Australia for International StudentsAccommodation is one of the largest monthly expenses for international students in Australia. Depending on your preferences, you can choose from various types of accommodation, such as homestays, residence halls, apartments, or shared housing.

 Here is a breakdown of typical accommodation costs for international students:

Accommodation Type Cost Range (AUD)
In-home care (Homestay) AUD 450 - AUD 1,200
Residence Halls AUD 440 - AUD 1,100
Apartment Rental AUD 750 - AUD 1,700
Shared Rental (House/Apartment) AUD 380 - AUD 850

Food & Grocery Costs in Australia for International Students

Food is another essential part of your living expenses. Cooking your meals at home can be a cost-effective way to save money compared to dining out. Supermarkets across Australia provide a wide range of ingredients for home cooking.

Here’s a table showing the average prices for common grocery items:

Grocery Product Average Cost (AUD)
White Rice (1 kg) AUD 3.60
White Fat Milk (1 Litre) AUD 2.02
Apples (1 kg) AUD 5.20
Oranges (1 kg) AUD 2.60
Tomatoes (1 kg) AUD 6.00
Water (1.5 Litres) AUD 2.40
Bread (loaf) AUD 3.41
Potatoes (1 kg) AUD 3.81
Lettuce (1 piece) AUD 5.50
Cheese (500 gm) AUD 7.70
Bananas (1 kg) AUD 4.50
Fast Food Combo Meal AUD 15.00
Eggs (12) AUD 8.00

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Average Cost of Living in Australia for Bachelors, Couples & Families

Understanding the cost of living is essential for budgeting, whether you're a student, a couple, or a family. The following table provides an overview of typical expenses for different living arrangements in Australia:

Area of Expense Bachelors Couples Families
Accommodation City Centre: AUD 1,500 - AUD 2,000/month
Suburban Areas: AUD 1,200 - AUD 1,800/month
City Centre: AUD 2,000 - AUD 3,200/month
Suburban Areas: AUD 1,500 - AUD 2,200/month
City Centre: AUD 3,000 - AUD 5,000/month
Suburban Areas: AUD 2,000 - AUD 3,500/month
Food & Groceries AUD 80 - AUD 150/week AUD 150 - AUD 250/week AUD 200 - AUD 350/week
Transportation AUD 30 - AUD 60/week AUD 50 - AUD 100/week AUD 150 - AUD 250/week
Utilities AUD 150 - AUD 200/month AUD 180 - AUD 250/month AUD 250 - AUD 400/month
Entertainment AUD 50 - AUD 150/week AUD 100 - AUD 200/week AUD 150 - AUD 300/week
Personal Expenses AUD 50 - AUD 150/week AUD 100 - AUD 200/week AUD 150 - AUD 300/week

Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students

As an Indian student, let us discuss in detail each element of the living expenses in Australia. These elements together make up the cost of living in Australia and each of them have a different significance altogether. 

1. Cost of Studying in Australia

Australia is an attractive destination for international students, with some of the world’s top universities and institutions. The cost of studying varies based on the university, course level, and program. Here is the estimated tuition fee for Indian students after 12th:

Institution Cost of Studying (INR)
Australian Universities UG: ₹4 L to ₹2 Cr
PG: ₹3 L to ₹2 Cr
Doctorate: ₹83 L
TAFE Institutions ₹2.21 Lakhs - ₹12.18 Lakhs
ELICOS Offering Institutions ₹16,650 (per week)

Tuition fees vary depending on the program and university.

Indicative Annual Fees

Degree Annual Fees (AUD)
School $7,800 to $30,000
Vocational Education & Training $4,000 to $22,000
Undergraduate Degree $15,000 to $33,000
Postgraduate Master’s Degree $20,000 to $37,000
Doctoral Degree $14,000 to $37,000

2. Accommodation Costs in Australia

Accommodation costs vary depending on the type of accommodation and its location:

Type of Accommodation Monthly Cost (AUD)
On-campus dormitory AUD 800 - AUD 1,400
Shared apartment AUD 600 - AUD 1,200
Homestay AUD 1,000 - AUD 1,400
Studio apartment AUD 1,200 - AUD 2,000

3. Cost of Travelling in Australia

Transportation costs are an essential part of living expenses:

Transportation Cost (AUD)
Single bus/train ticket AUD 10
Monthly transport pass AUD 100 - AUD 200
Domestic flight (one-way) AUD 200 - AUD 300
Car rental (per day) AUD 50 - AUD 100

On average, students may spend around AUD 300 - AUD 400 per month on transportation.

4. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses

International students or Indian students need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in Australia. Here's a look at the costs for health insurance:

OHSC Providers Annual Cost (AUD)
CBHS AUD 1,160.70
AHM OHSC AUD 1,214
NIB AUD 1,305.16
Medi Bank AUD 1,319
Allianz Care AUD 1,324
Bupa AUD 1,405

Cost of Healthcare Services in Australia:

Healthcare Service Cost (AUD)
General Practitioner Visit AUD 90 - AUD 100
Specialist Consultation AUD 130 - AUD 230
Prescription Medication AUD 25 - AUD 35
Dental Treatment AUD 300 - AUD 500
Physiotherapy Session AUD 50 - AUD 200
Eye Test AUD 60 - AUD 80
Hospital Admission AUD 500 - AUD 1,000
Emergency Room Visit AUD 500 - AUD 1,000
X-ray AUD 200 - AUD 400
Mental Health Consultation AUD 100 - AUD 200

5. Utility Costs in Australia

Utility costs (electricity, gas, water, and internet) are essential for students living off-campus:

Utility Monthly Cost (AUD)
Electricity AUD 80 - AUD 150
Gas AUD 50 - AUD 100
Water AUD 50 - AUD 80
Internet AUD 60 - AUD 100
Mobile Phone AUD 30 - AUD 60

Students living on campus may not need to worry about these utilities except for mobile and internet bills.

6. Entertainment Expenses in Australia

Australia offers a wide range of entertainment options. Students can expect to spend:

Activity Cost (AUD)
Entertainment (monthly) AUD 100 - AUD 120

Australia's beaches, clubs, and nature reserves offer numerous options for outdoor and urban entertainment.

7. Personal Expenses in Australia

Personal expenses are subjective but can typically range from:

Expense Type Cost (AUD)
Weekly Personal Expenses AUD 70 - AUD 80

8. Food and Groceries Cost in Australia

The cost of food and groceries can vary, but here are some general costs:

Food/Grocery Item Cost (AUD)
Milk (1 litre) AUD 1.5 - AUD 2.5
Bread (loaf) AUD 2.5 - AUD 4
Rice (1 kg) AUD 2 - AUD 4
Eggs (dozen) AUD 4 - AUD 6
Chicken (1 kg) AUD 9 - AUD 12
Apples (1 kg) AUD 4 - AUD 6
Bananas (1 kg) AUD 3 - AUD 5
Tomatoes (1 kg) AUD 4 - AUD 7
Cheese (500g) AUD 5 - AUD 8
Coffee (200g) AUD 5 - AUD 8
Restaurant Meal (inexpensive) AUD 15 - AUD 25
Fast Food Combo Meal AUD 10 - AUD 15

Average Rent in Australia

Rent prices in Australia can vary significantly depending on the city, neighborhood, and type of accommodation. 

Here is the rental prices across major and regional areas:

City/Area Average Monthly Rent (AUD) Accommodation Type
Sydney (Central Location) AUD 1,800 - AUD 2,500 One-bedroom apartment with ensuite bathroom
Melbourne (Central Location) AUD 1,800 - AUD 2,500 One-bedroom apartment with ensuite bathroom
Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane AUD 1,400 - AUD 2,000 One-bedroom apartment (suburban areas)
Regional Areas & Small Towns AUD 1,000 - AUD 1,500 One-bedroom apartment or shared accommodation

The rental market is competitive, and prices are influenced by factors such as the property type, proximity to public transport, and demand in the area. For those looking to save on rent, regional areas and smaller towns offer more affordable options.

Cost of Living in Australia for Students: Public vs Private University Tuition Fees

The cost of living for students in Australia can vary depending on whether they attend a public or private university. Public universities are funded by the state government or subsidies, while private universities are funded by investors and have higher tuition fees.

Here is a comparison of average annual tuition fees for both types of universities:

University Name Type of University Average Annual Fees
University of Melbourne Public 31,870 AUD (INR 17,57,000)
University of New South Wales Public 23,140 AUD (INR 12,76,000)
University of Sydney Public 44,500 AUD (INR 24,54,000)
The University of Queensland Public 34,960 AUD (INR 19,28,000)
Australian National University Public 31,628 AUD (INR 17,44,000)
Bond University Private 43,200 AUD (INR 23,82,000)
Carnegie Mellon University Private 58,000 AUD (INR 31,98,000)
Torrents University Private 34,480 AUD (INR 19,01,000)
Avolande University Private 34,736 AUD (INR 19,15,000)

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Cost of Living in Australia: Final Calculation

Australia is known for its high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and stable economy. However, as a student, the most important factor to consider is the cost of living. 

Here’s an overall monthly expenses in Australia:

Cost of Living in Australia Monthly Expenses (In AUD)
Accommodation AUD 800 - AUD 2,500
Travel AUD 300 - AUD 400
OHSC Cover AUD 118
Utility Cost AUD 270 - 490
Entertainment AUD 100 - AUD 120
Personal/Miscellaneous Expenses AUD 80 - AUD 90
Groceries & Food AUD 65 - AUD 103
Total = AUD 1,733 - 3,202 (INR 96,576 - INR 1,78,441)

Cost of Living in Australia: City Ranking and Price Index

Here is a ranking of major cities in Australia based on their cost of living, with their respective price indexes:

Ranking City Price Index
1st Sydney 181
2nd Melbourne 169
3rd Brisbane 158
4th Perth 156
5th Adelaide 143
6th Canberra 138
7th Darwin 129
8th Cairns 125
9th Newcastle, Australia 124
10th Wollongong 114
11th Townsville 102

Cost of Living in Australia: Cheapest Student Cities 

The cost of living for students in Australia can vary depending on the city. Here are the top six most affordable cities for students:

Name of the city Average cost of living per week
City of Adelaide, South Australia AUD$ 377
Darwin, Australia Northern Territory AUD$ 443
Perth, Western Australia AUD$ 449
Hobart, Tasmania AUD$ 475
Gold Coast, Queensland AUD$ 482
Brisbane, Queensland AUD$ 485
Canberra, The Australian Capital Territory AUD$ 509

Factors Impacting the Cost of Living in Australia

Several factors contribute to the overall cost of living in Australia, and understanding these can help you plan better. Here are the key factors:

1. Location

The cost of living in Australia can vary significantly based on your location. Urban areas, such as Sydney and Melbourne, are known for their higher cost of living due to high demand and limited space. In contrast, regional areas tend to be more affordable but may offer fewer amenities and services.

2. Lifestyle

Your personal lifestyle choices have a direct impact on your living expenses. For example, dining out regularly, spending on leisure activities, and entertainment can all add to your overall cost of living.

3. Housing

Housing costs, whether renting or buying, are one of the most significant expenses in Australia. Rental prices vary by city, with larger cities like Sydney and Melbourne having higher rental costs compared to smaller towns or regional areas.

4. Transportation

Transportation costs can also vary. Public transportation is generally affordable in major cities, making commuting easier for city dwellers. However, owning a car can significantly increase your expenses, especially considering fuel, insurance, and maintenance.

5. Utilities and Groceries

Utility costs, including electricity, water, and internet, can fluctuate based on the region and your consumption. Groceries can be more expensive in remote areas due to transportation costs for goods, while urban areas may offer more variety and competitive pricing.

How Much Do People Earn in Australia? Average Salaries by Profession

As of 2024, the average income in Australia is approximately AUD 92,000 per year. The income needed to live comfortably varies based on your circumstances such as lifestyle, city, and household composition. Below is the income required for different living situations:

Living Situation Annual Income Required (in AUD)
Student AUD 25,000 - AUD 35,000 (Sufficient for students to manage living expenses)
Single (Bachelor) AUD 50,000 - AUD 70,000 (To live comfortably in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne)
Couple (Combined) AUD 80,000 - AUD 120,000 (To cover essential expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment)
Family (4 members) AUD 120,000 - AUD 180,000 (To manage all living costs effectively)

Income by Job Profiles

The following table outlines the average salary for various job profiles in Australia:

Job Profile Average Salary (in AUD)
Neurosurgeon AUD 389,942 - AUD 1,023,102
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) AUD 400,000 - AUD 204,000
Anaesthetist AUD 380,000
Financial Analyst AUD 300,000
Head of HR/HR Director AUD 300,000
Legal Professionals AUD 200,000
Construction Manager AUD 175,000
Mining Engineer AUD 180,000
Financial Investment Advisor AUD 160,000
Pilot AUD 160,000
Software Architect AUD 150,000
Project Manager AUD 116,000
Architect AUD 109,000
Civil Engineer AUD 88,800
Teacher AUD 74,800
Registered Nurse AUD 72,600
Accountant AUD 66,100
Secretary AUD 43,800

How Expensive is Australia Compared to Other Countries?

Australia is known for its higher cost of living, ranking above 87% of countries worldwide. However, this is balanced by excellent healthcare, high wages, and social services. 

Here's a quick comparison of the cost of living in Australia compared to other major cities:

City Accommodation (1BHK) Transportation (Monthly) Meal for 2 People Miscellaneous Expenses
Sydney AUD 2,255.23 AUD 160 AUD 120 AUD 50 - 100
New York $2,960 $132 $130 $200+
London £1,100 £177 £80 £200 - £300
Singapore S$2,000 - 4,000 S$1,000 - 1,500 S$92.50 S$200 - 400
Dubai AED 4,904 AED 300 AED 300 AED 600
Tokyo ¥150,000 - 200,000 ¥10,000 - 15,000 ¥7,125 ¥10,000 - 15,000
Berlin €800 - 1,200 €80 - €90 €70 €100 - 200
Shanghai CNY 3,785 CNY 250 CNY 200 CNY 440

Average Cost of Living in Australia vs US

When planning to study abroad, students typically have two accommodation options: on-campus or off-campus. On-campus accommodation can help reduce overall living costs. 

Here’s a comparison of the average monthly living expenses in Australia and the US, based on both off-campus and on-campus accommodation options.

Items Monthly Cost in Australia Monthly Cost in the US
Off-Campus Accommodation AUD 800 (USD 512) USD 525
On-Campus Accommodation AUD 1,754 (USD 1,122.56) USD 871
Transportation AUD 150 (USD 96) USD 70
Food Cost AUD 780 (USD 499.2) USD 527
Utility Cost AUD 205 (USD 131.2) USD 180
Entertainment AUD 80 (USD 51.2) USD 48
Groceries AUD 68 (USD 43.52) USD 52
Clothes AUD 153 (USD 97.92) USD 102
Total Cost with Off-Campus Accommodation AUD 2,236 (USD 1,431.04) USD 1,504
Total Cost with On-Campus Accommodation AUD 3,190 (USD 2,041.6) USD 1,850
Annual Cost of Living AUD 26,832 (USD 17,172.48) USD 18,048

Tips to Save Money in Australia 

Living in Australia can be costly, but there are several strategies to help reduce expenses:

1. Choose Your Location Wisely

The cost of living can vary significantly based on the state and university you choose. Research locations that offer lower living costs.

2. Avoid Bank Exchange Fees

Converting money into Australian dollars may incur additional fees from banks. Consider using trustworthy money exchange services within the country to avoid extra charges.

3. Cut Down on Everyday Expenses

Reduce costs by adopting simple habits like turning off electrical appliances when not in use, cooking meals at home, and using public transportation or cycling instead of owning a car.

4. Part-Time Jobs

Taking on part-time work can provide extra income to cover living expenses.

5. Apply for Scholarships

Many universities offer scholarships to help offset the high costs of living and tuition. Check with your institution for available options.

The cost of living in Australia varies based on location, lifestyle, and personal choices. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne tend to be more expensive, while regional areas offer more affordable options. By considering factors such as accommodation, food, utilities, and entertainment, students can effectively manage their expenses and make the most of their time in Australia.

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FAQ for Cost of Living in Australia

How long will $5,000 last in Australia?

A budget of $5,000 AUD can last around 3 months if you're traveling on a strict budget, spending approximately $60 AUD per day.

What are the yearly living expenses in Australia for international students in 2025?

The average cost of living for international students in Australia is around AUD 29,710 annually, but it can exceed AUD 40,000 depending on your lifestyle and location.

Is Australia still a good place to live?

Yes, Australia ranks high globally for quality of life, healthcare, education, and economic freedom, making it a great place to live. It also has a strong job market with 73% of the population aged 15 to 64 employed.

Is Australia expensive for Indians?

On average, Indian students need about ₹76,405 per month for expenses like accommodation, food, and transportation, though costs can vary based on location and lifestyle.

How much bank balance is required for an Australian student visa in 2024?

For the student visa, the required bank balance is AUD 29,710 as of May 2024. If you're applying with a partner or spouse, you'll need an additional AUD 10,394.

How much money should I save before moving to Australia?

It's advisable to save at least AUD 15,000 before moving to Australia. This amount can help you settle in and cover your expenses for the first 6-9 months, excluding visa costs.

What is the age limit for studying in Australia?

To apply for an Australian student visa, you need to be at least 18 years old. There is no maximum age limit for the visa, though applicants under 18 may face specific restrictions.

Can a 40-year-old apply for a student visa in Australia?

Yes, individuals of any age can apply for a student visa in Australia, as long as they meet the necessary requirements.

What salary is needed to live comfortably in Australia?

To live comfortably in Australia, a single person may need an annual income of AUD 70,000 to 80,000, or around AUD 5,800+ per month, depending on location and lifestyle.

How much is rent in Australia?

The average weekly rent in Australia is around AUD 627, which amounts to about AUD 2,715 per month. Rent prices are higher in cities like Sydney, where the median rent can exceed AUD 3,300 per month.

Is Melbourne cheaper than Sydney?

Generally, Sydney is Australia's most expensive city. Melbourne tends to have lower costs, especially in terms of housing, due to more housing completions per capita.

How much does food cost per day in Australia?

On average, food costs about AUD 35 per day (AU$53), or roughly AUD 140 per week for one person. A typical meal in a restaurant will cost around AUD 14 (AU$21) per person.

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