Cost of Living in Australia: Accommodation, Food, Rent, Healthcare & More!

We all know that studying abroad brings a lot of opportunities. It not only adds an extra feather to your career cap but also gives you a career that sets you ahead of others. Now, the question is which country is the best for studying abroad? Well, various countries come at the top of the list when it comes to choosing the top countries in the world. Many believe it is the USA, the UK, France, New Zealand, Canada, and Germany. But a majority of people think it is Australia, which is one of the top countries for international students. The best part is the comparatively low cost of living in Australia. Is it so? Let’s see why people believe Australia is the best country for studying abroad. Why choose Australia as your study destination? Or, the total monthly living cost in Australia (2025).

International Student Population in Australia

While it is not so simple to give you precise numbers without authentic data sources, however, we can make a generalisation based on the available data.

Needless to say, Australia has a large international student population. According to the Institute of Public Affairs, in 2024, the student visa holders reached a record high of 608,262. Veteran study abroad consultants, like Education Vibes, believe it is the cost of Living in Australia, which is comparatively lower than the USA and the UK sets it apart from other countries for higher studies.

Cost of Living in Australia

Cost is a factor that needs to be considered first. When you plan to study here, the main thing to think about is the living expenses in Australia. If we compare it with the USA and the UK, it is comparatively lower, but in some cities it is higher than in the USA. However, the country’s high salaries and stronger labour market give its citizens more disposable income than the United States.

Without including rent in Australia per month, the average monthly cost of living in any city will be around AUD 1400 to AUD 2500. This includes your day-to-day expenses, such as food, transportation, and healthcare costs. It depends on where you live and how you manage. The average living expenses in Australia for international students can vary significantly.

The Cost of Living in Australia Per Month for Various Accommodation Types is Given Below:

Get the Australia Cost of Living Checklist!

Food and Grocery Expenses in Australia

Food and grocery expenses are a significant part of living in Australia. If you cook your meals every day instead of eating out in expensive restaurants, you can reduce the expenses to a large extent. You can visit to neighbourhood supermarkets, where food and groceries are sold at affordable prices. You can bring them home and cook your meals. If you want to reduce the cost of living in Australia per month, you should stop eating out, or occasionally, you can do that.

Here is a snapshot of the prices of some basic supplies and food items:

Transportation Costs in Australia

Transportation costs are not cheap in Australia. especially public transport. It is considered the most expensive in the world. While travelling by bus is a much more affordable option, if you are travelling on longer intercity routes. International students need to have a budget for transportation while studying in Australia. If you use pubic transport and student discounts, you can minimise the travel costs.

Utility Bills in Australia

Your utility bills also come under the total cost of living in Australia. You need to pay the necessary bills in time, like power, water and internet bills. You may say these separate bills will come under the cost of accommodation, but you need to calculate them with your living expenses. Here is a list of your household expenses:

Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Australia

Healthcare and insurance costs are the most essential things to consider for all international students planning to move to Australia. In this case, you must obtain OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) throughout your stay. Though OSHC may not cover all medical costs, you may be required to incur additional costs related to other healthcare treatments.

Miscellaneous Expenses in Australia

Apart from accommodation, food, transportation and utility expenses, you may need a few bucks for miscellaneous expenses. For example, you may need AUD 100 more for shopping, entertainment or leisure. You can watch movies or go shopping at least once a week. Here is an overview of monthly miscellaneous expenses related to entertainment, sports, clothing, etc.

Quick Reminder

International students can easily manage their monthly expenses in Australia if they plan well. If you have already budgeted your living expenses, then it wouldn’t be less than AUD 2,000 per month. So, prepare it wisely before you move on.

City-Wise Average Cost of Living in Australia

The cost of living in Australia for international students depends on the place of your study, living and working. For instance, cities like South Brisbane, Spring Hill or St. Kilda West, to name some, have much lower costs of living than other metro cities like Melbourne, Sydney, or Canberra.

If you have a question in mind - is Australia expensive?- then this table would give you an idea about the average cost of living per month in different cities.

The Key Takeaway

Now, you must not ask anyone whether studying and living in Australia is expensive. Because we have discussed here almost all types of expenses that come under the total cost of living in Australia. Going forward, this will help you decide how much you need to live and study in this country. As a matter of fact, you need careful financial planning to make your living expenses affordable as an international student. Your lifestyle, choices, and personal spending influence your overall budget.

Are you considering studying in Australia? Have more questions about the cost of living, studying, and all? Don’t worry! You are not alone. Connect with our expert counsellors at Education Vibes to get comprehensive guidance on studying, living and managing your budget. We will make it sure that your stay in Australia is enjoyable and affordable. Look no more!