288 cities covered · Currency: AUD ($) · Capital: Sydney
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $15.71 ($10.34) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $62.84 ($41.34) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | $4.71 ($3.10) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $356 ($234) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | $57.60 ($37.90) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $152 ($99.91) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $43.99 ($28.94) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | $43.99 ($28.94) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | $11.52 ($7.58) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,034 ($680) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $719 ($473) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $2,158 ($1,420) | per month |
New South Wales · pop. 5,450,496
Victoria · pop. 5,350,705
Queensland · pop. 2,706,966
Western Australia · pop. 2,141,834
South Australia · pop. 1,387,290
Queensland · pop. 607,665
Australian Capital Territory · pop. 381,488
New South Wales · pop. 325,255
New South Wales · pop. 261,896
Queensland · pop. 232,930
Tasmania · pop. 197,451
Victoria · pop. 180,239
Queensland · pop. 173,724
New South Wales · pop. 152,984
Queensland · pop. 146,778
Northern Territory · pop. 139,902
Victoria · pop. 116,201
Queensland · pop. 108,398
Western Australia · pop. 107,643
Victoria · pop. 103,034
New South Wales · pop. 89,597
Tasmania · pop. 80,943
Queensland · pop. 80,455
Victoria · pop. 76,346
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Australia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Australia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Australia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Australia
Living costs in Australia vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of $1,767 ($1,162) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.