Cost of Living in Australia

Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international professionals and skilled migrants, offering high salaries, strong social security, and excellent quality of life. However, living costs can vary significantly by city and lifestyle, making it essential to understand your real monthly expenses before relocating.

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This guide provides a complete overview of the cost of living in Australia for expats and overseas workers, including rent, food, transport, healthcare, and utilities. It helps you estimate how far your income will go and how much you can realistically save.

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Whether you are moving on a skilled visa, student visa, or employer-sponsored pathway, understanding your living costs will help you plan your relocation and negotiate your salary with confidence.

(Estimates based on major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.)

Housing is the largest expense for most newcomers.

Australia has high food quality standards, but imported items and restaurant dining are relatively expensive.

Major cities offer reliable public transport, while regional areas often require car ownership.

Many work visas require private health insurance until permanent residency is obtained.

Australia combines high wages with high living costs. However, due to strong minimum wage laws and competitive professional salaries, many skilled migrants still achieve solid savings potential, especially in:

• Software & IT
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Construction
• Finance & Accounting
• Mining & Energy

High-income professionals can maintain comfortable lifestyles while saving 20–40% of net income, particularly outside Sydney’s CBD.