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Sydney vs Canberra

Australia vs Australia · 248 km apart

Sydney

Australia

$2,213 ($1,456)

single / month

Canberra

Australia

$1,767 ($1,162)

single / month

Cheaper overall

Category Breakdown (USD)

Expense	Sydney	Canberra	Cheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	$12.68	$10.34	Canberra
Three-course meal for two, mid-range	$50.70	$41.34	Canberra
Cappuccino	$3.80	$3.10	Canberra
Monthly groceries (single person)	$287	$234	Canberra
Monthly public transport pass	$46.48	$37.90	Canberra
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment	$123	$99.91	Canberra
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)	$35.49	$28.94	Canberra
Fitness club membership	$35.49	$28.94	Canberra
Cinema ticket	$9.30	$7.58	Canberra
One-bedroom apartment in city centre	$878	$680	Canberra
One-bedroom apartment outside centre	$611	$473	Canberra
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre	$1,832	$1,420	Canberra
Total single-person budget	$1,456	$1,162	Canberra
Average net salary	$4,420	$3,604

Verdict

Canberra is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Sydney runs about $1,456 versus $1,162 in Canberra — a difference of roughly 20%.

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 Sydney · Full cost of living in Canberra

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sydney cheaper than Canberra?

No. Sydney costs an estimated $1,456 per month for a single person, about 20% more than Canberra at $1,162.

How far is Sydney from Canberra?

The straight-line distance between Sydney and Canberra is approximately 248 km (154 miles).

Which city has better salaries, Sydney or Canberra?

The estimated average net salary is $4,420 in Sydney and $3,604 in Canberra. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,964 in Sydney versus $2,442 in Canberra per month.