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Brisbane vs Sydney

Australia vs Australia · 733 km apart

Brisbane

Australia

$1,914 ($1,259)

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Sydney

Australia

$2,213 ($1,456)

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseBrisbaneSydneyCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$11.12$12.68Brisbane
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$44.46$50.70Brisbane
Cappuccino$3.33$3.80Brisbane
Monthly groceries (single person)$252$287Brisbane
Monthly public transport pass$40.76$46.48Brisbane
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$107$123Brisbane
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$31.12$35.49Brisbane
Fitness club membership$31.12$35.49Brisbane
Cinema ticket$8.15$9.30Brisbane
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$745$878Brisbane
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$518$611Brisbane
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,555$1,832Brisbane
Total single-person budget$1,259$1,456Brisbane
Average net salary$3,876$4,420

Verdict

Brisbane is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Brisbane runs about $1,259 versus $1,456 in Sydney — a difference of roughly 16%.

Salary-adjusted, Sydney leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Brisbane  ·  Full cost of living in Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brisbane cheaper than Sydney?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,259 per month in Brisbane versus $1,456 in Sydney — about 16% less.
How far is Brisbane from Sydney?
The straight-line distance between Brisbane and Sydney is approximately 733 km (455 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Brisbane or Sydney?
The estimated average net salary is $3,876 in Brisbane and $4,420 in Sydney. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,617 in Brisbane versus $2,964 in Sydney per month.