Cost of Living in Broome
Summary: If you're moving to Broome, understanding the the cost of living in Broome helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Apartment Rentals | The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Broome is $1,200 per month. Two-bedroom apartments typically cost around $1,500 per month. |
Apartment Purchases | The median price for a one-bedroom apartment in Broome is $250,000. Two-bedroom apartments typically cost around $300,000. |
Transportation | Public transportation in Broome is limited. A monthly bus pass costs $50. Taxis are available and typically cost around $20 for a one-way trip. |
Groceries | The cost of groceries in Broome is comparable to other cities in Australia. A carton of eggs costs around $5, a loaf of bread costs around $3, and a gallon of milk costs around $4. |
Restaurants | The cost of eating out in Broome is comparable to other cities in Australia. A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around $20 per person. |
Utilities | The cost of utilities in Broome is comparable to other cities in Australia. The average monthly cost for electricity, gas, and water is around $200. |
Private School Tuition | The cost of private school tuition in Broome varies depending on the school. Preschool tuition typically costs around $2,000 per year, elementary school tuition typically costs around $4,000 per year, middle school tuition typically costs around $6,000 per year, and high school tuition typically costs around $8,000 per year. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Broome
"The cost of living in Broome is considered to be relatively high compared to other parts of the country. This is largely due to its remote location in the northwestern part of the country, which can make the cost of goods and services more expensive. Housing is one of the biggest expenses, with rental and property prices being quite high. Utilities such as electricity and water are also more expensive than the national average. Groceries and food costs are also higher than in other parts of Australia, again due to the remote location and the cost of transporting goods. Eating out at restaurants can also be quite pricey. Transportation costs can vary, depending on whether you own a vehicle or rely on public transportation. Owning a car can be expensive, with high costs for petrol and maintenance. Public transportation is available, but it may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. Healthcare costs are another factor to consider. While Australia has a public healthcare system, there may be out-of-pocket costs for certain services or treatments. Despite the high cost of living, many people are drawn to Broome for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and unique culture. It's important to note that salaries and wages in Broome can be higher than the national average, which can help offset the cost of living," said one expat living in Broome.
Can I live in Broome on $1,500 a month?
"I've been living in Broome for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find affordable accommodation. I'd recommend looking for a share house or a small apartment in neighborhoods like Old Broome or Bilingurr, as they tend to be more budget-friendly. Avoid neighborhoods like Cable Beach or Sunset Park, as they can be quite expensive.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your spending on food and groceries. Shopping at local markets and discount stores can help you save money. Cooking at home instead of eating out will also help you stick to your budget. When you do go out, look for happy hour deals or cheaper eateries.Transportation can also be a significant expense, so consider using public transport, cycling, or walking instead of owning a car. If you do need a car, try to find a fuel-efficient one and carpool whenever possible.As for entertainment and leisure activities, you'll need to be selective. Broome has many free or low-cost attractions, like the beach, parks, and local festivals. However, you might have to skip some of the more expensive activities, like dining at high-end restaurants or going on guided tours.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Broome is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing affordable accommodation, being frugal with food and transportation, and enjoying low-cost leisure activities, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Broome.
Can I live in Broome on $3,500 a month?
"I've been living in Broome for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living in Broome can be quite high, especially when it comes to housing and groceries. However, if you're willing to live in a more affordable neighborhood and be mindful of your spending, you can make it work.First, let's talk about housing. The more expensive neighborhoods in Broome are Cable Beach and Sunset Park, so you might want to avoid those areas if you're on a tight budget. Instead, consider looking for a place in Old Broome or Roebuck Estate, where you can find more affordable housing options. You might have to settle for a smaller apartment or share a house with roommates, but it's a sacrifice you'll have to make to stay within your budget.When it comes to groceries, you'll need to be mindful of your spending. Shopping at local markets and buying in-season produce can help you save money. Also, consider cooking at home more often instead of eating out, as dining out in Broome can be quite expensive.As for transportation, owning a car in Broome can be costly due to high fuel prices and maintenance costs. If possible, try to rely on public transportation, cycling, or walking to get around. This will not only save you money but also help you stay active and healthy.Lastly, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. While it's important to enjoy your time in Broome, you'll need to prioritize your spending and find affordable activities. Luckily, there are plenty of free or low-cost things to do in Broome, such as visiting the beautiful beaches, exploring the local parks, and attending community events.In conclusion, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in Broome is possible, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your grocery and transportation expenses, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work and enjoy your time in this beautiful Australian town," said one expat living in Broome.
Can I live in Broome on $5,000 a month?
"I've been living in Broome for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices to make it work. For example, you might not be able to live in the most luxurious neighborhoods or have the most spacious apartment, but you can still find a nice place to live in a decent area.One of the more affordable neighborhoods in Broome is Cable Beach. It's a beautiful area with a stunning beach, and you can find some reasonably priced apartments and houses there. Another option is Roebuck Estate, which is a bit further from the town center but still has some nice properties at lower prices.On the other hand, you might want to avoid neighborhoods like Minyirr and Waterbank, as they tend to be more expensive. These areas have larger, more luxurious homes, so they might be out of your budget if you're trying to stick to $5,000 a month.In terms of other expenses, you'll find that groceries and dining out can be a bit pricey in Broome, so you might have to cut back on eating out or choose more budget-friendly options. However, there are plenty of outdoor activities and attractions in the area that are either free or low-cost, so you can still enjoy your time here without breaking the bank.Overall, I think it's definitely possible to live comfortably in Broome on $5,000 a month, as long as you're willing to make a few sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. It's a beautiful place to live, and I'm sure you'll enjoy your time here," commented an expat living in Broome.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information: