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Melbourne vs Canberra

Australia vs Australia · 466 km apart

Melbourne

Australia

$2,175 ($1,431)

single / month

VS

Canberra

Australia

$1,767 ($1,162)

single / month

Cheaper overall

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseMelbourneCanberraCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$12.48$10.34Canberra
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$49.92$41.34Canberra
Cappuccino$3.74$3.10Canberra
Monthly groceries (single person)$283$234Canberra
Monthly public transport pass$45.76$37.90Canberra
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$121$99.91Canberra
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$34.94$28.94Canberra
Fitness club membership$34.94$28.94Canberra
Cinema ticket$9.15$7.58Canberra
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$861$680Canberra
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$599$473Canberra
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,797$1,420Canberra
Total single-person budget$1,431$1,162Canberra
Average net salary$4,352$3,604

Verdict

Canberra is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Melbourne runs about $1,431 versus $1,162 in Canberra — a difference of roughly 19%.

Salary-adjusted, Melbourne 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 Melbourne  ·  Full cost of living in Canberra

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Melbourne cheaper than Canberra?
No. Melbourne costs an estimated $1,431 per month for a single person, about 19% more than Canberra at $1,162.
How far is Melbourne from Canberra?
The straight-line distance between Melbourne and Canberra is approximately 466 km (289 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Melbourne or Canberra?
The estimated average net salary is $4,352 in Melbourne and $3,604 in Canberra. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,921 in Melbourne versus $2,442 in Canberra per month.