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Cost of Living in Australia | Expat Exchange
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Matilda Bay in Perth, Australia

Cost of Living in Australia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 04, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Australia is generally quite high. A nice one bedroom apartment in Australia can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 USD per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 USD per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Australia is usually around $20 to $30 USD per person.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Is the cost of living in Australia high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Australia, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Australia varies depending on the city and the lifestyle of the individual. Generally, living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport are comparable with those in other major cities in the world. The cost of utilities, such as electricity and water, may be higher than in some other countries. Taxes on purchasing goods and services, including GST and luxury taxes, also contribute to the overall cost of living. Groceries, entertainment, and healthcare costs are relatively moderate compared to other affluent countries," said one expat in Australia.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Australia?

"The cost of living in Australia can be significantly lower than in the United States, depending where you live in either country. Certain items such as groceries, entertainment and travel can be cheaper in Australia than in the US, and the cost of rent and housing can also be cheaper. On average, the cost of living in Australia is generally lower than in the US. Consequently, people living in Australia can usually save money when compared to individuals living in the United States," said one person in Australia.

What is the average cost of housing in Australia?

If you are thinking about moving to Australia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Housing is more expensive here. They vary a lot but in this area you would pay A$1400-A$1600 for a clean family home. O/w most would be rather shabby," wrote a person living in Sydney.

"The cost of housing in Australia varies greatly depending on the location, with the average cost of housing being relatively high compared to other countries. Generally speaking, the average cost of rental accommodation in Australia can range from around $250 to upwards of $700 per week, while the median price of purchasing a house is approximately $550,000," explained one expat living in Australia.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

What are typical rental prices for expats in Australia?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Australia typically ranges from around $1500 to $2800 per month, depending on the neighbourhood and amenities. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in Australia typically costs between $2100 and $3700 per month, again depending on the area and additional features," said one expat.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Australia what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Australia, a typical rental property will usually come with a refrigerator, stove (or oven/cooktop), washing machine, and sometimes additional appliances like a microwave, dishwasher, and/or clothes dryer. Furthermore, some rental agreements may also include furniture and basic home appliances, such as a television and DVD player. Additionally, outdoor equipment may be provided, like a BBQ, mower, and gardening tools," wrote an expat living in Australia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

Matilda Bay in Perth, Australia
William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

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