Study Abroad

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

Sanchita Das
Sanchita Das · Senior Content WriterUpdated at - September 2, 20267 Min Read3,664 views
Cost of Living in Australia: Accommodation, Food, Rent, Healthcare & More!

Table of Contents

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:

Accommodation Types

Monthly Accommodation Costs in AUD

Monthly Accommodation Costs in INR

Homestays

450-1200

24809 - 66157

Halls of Residence

440-1100

18193 - 60644

Appartment

750-1700

41348 - 93723

Shared Apartment

650-950

35835 - 52374

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:

Name of Food and Grocery

Average Costs

White Rice per kg

AUD 3.60

White fat milk per litre

AUD 2.02

Apple per kg

AUD 5.20

Orange per kg

AUD 2.60

Tomato per kg

AUD 6.00

Water per litre

AUD 2.40

Bread

AUD 3.41

Potato per kg

AUD 3.81

Lettuce

AUD 5.50

Cheese per 500 grams

AUD 7.70

Banana per kg

AUD 4.50

Fast food combo meal

AUD 15.00

Eggs per dozen

AUD 8.00

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.

Transportation in Australia

Average Costs in AUD

One-way local transport Ticket

3-6

Taxi Tariff

3-7

Gasoline (1 Litre)

1.2-1.6

Taxi 1 Km

2-3

Monthly Pass

100-200

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:

Type of Utility

Average Cost in AUD

Internet

AUD 87

Basic utilities include garbage, water, heating, cooling, and electricity.

AUD 332

Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local

AUD 0.10-1

Monthly Mobile Phone Plan with Calls and Up to 10GB of Data

AUD 44.69

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.

Healthcare Services

Costs in AUD

General Practitioner visit

90-100

Specialist consultation

130-230

Prescription medication

25-35

Dental

300-500

Physiotherapy

50-200 per session

Eye test

60-80

Hospital Admission

500-1000

Emergency room visit

500-1000

X-Ray

200-400

Mental health consultation

100-200

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.

Miscellaneous Activities

Average Costs in AUD

Fitness Club

AUD 80.07

Cinema

AUD 21.00

Pair of Jeans

AUD 125.34

Summer Dress

AUD 84.22

Shoes

AUD 177.82

Tennis Court Rent

AUD 26.11

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.

Cities

Average Monthly Cost of Living in AUD

Perth

3,620

Brisbane

3,620

Melbourne

3,620

Adelaide

3,620

Canberra

3,620

Gold Coast

3,620

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!

Tags:cost of living in Australialiving expenses in Australialiving expenses in australia for international studentscost of living in australia per monthaverage cost of living in Australiacost of living in australia for Indianmonthly expenses in Australiarent in australia per monthcost of living in australia Melbourne

Our Newsletter

Stay updated with the latests news and exclusive content by and subscribing to our newsletter for education vibes.

Related Blogs

See All
Study in Germany Without IELTS: Top Universities, Requirements & Admission Process
Study AbroadStudy in Germany Without IELTS: Top Universities, Requirements & Admission Process

Many students who want to study in Germany have a question: Is it possible to study in Germany without IELTS for Indian students? The honest answer is: yes, it is possible, provided you meet certain conditions. Many universities accept alternative forms of English proficiency, including TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo. Many universities also accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI certificate). This certificate proves that you have studied English to demonstrate your English proficiency. Also, students should know that, in Germany, admission requirements and student Visa requirements are separate and handled by different authorities.Can you study in Germany without IELTS?Many Indian students are confused by the belief that the German Embassy requires IELTS for admission to the country. But the truth is: IELTS is not required at the national level. Each university sets its own English proficiency requirements. Concluding this, yes, you can study in Germany without IELTS, as it does not depend on the country, but rather on the programme and the university. There are two paths to study in Germany; let’s delve into them:English-taught programmes: Students who are choosing to study an English-taught programme can study without IELTS if the chosen university accepts the alternative proof of English-language proficiency.German-taught programmes: To study in German-language programmes, you do not need to provide an IELTS certificate as it tests English proficiency rather than German. However, students need to provide German language certificates, such as TestDaF, DSH, and Goethe-Zertifikat.Talk to a counsellor in 15 minutesGerman Universities without IELTS: Full ListMany German universities allow Indian students to enrol in the English language programmes without IELTS if they provide an accepted alternative to IELTS. There are almost 200+ public and private universities that offer an English language programme with an alternative to IELTS. Universities without IELTS in Germany require alternatives, such as TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo,

September 2, 2026
Italy Student Visa Checklist 2026-27: Eligibility, Documents & Application Process
Study AbroadItaly Student Visa Checklist 2026-27: Eligibility, Documents & Application Process

If you are a non-EU national and planning to study higher education in Italy, then you must apply for a student visa to enter the country. But before applying for the Italy Student Visa, students must apply for admission to an Italian university and complete the pre-enrollment process. Italy is one of the popular destinations among international students for higher education. It provides advanced education at the world’s top universities with better career opportunities. Applicants must have a student visa to study in Italy at the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, such as the University of Bologna and Sapienza University of Rome. This blog will cover a complete guide to Italy student visas, including requirements, process, documents required, and fees for overseas candidates. Apply for Italy Student Visa Italy Student Visa: A Key to Studying Abroad in Italy International students who are planning to study abroad in Italy for higher education must apply for an Italy Student visa for admission to Italian universities. Applicants looking for full-time studies at a recognised university must have a student visa. Whether you are interested in fashion, design, architecture, engineering, arts, or science, you have to apply for an Italian Visa. There is no such criteria to apply for a student visa. However, applicants have to meet the general eligibility requirements and follow the process to submit their visa application. Check out the key highlights of Italy Student Visa (Type D) below: Particular Details Visa Category Type D (National Long-Stay Visa) Target Audience Non-EU students studying for >90 days Primary Online Platform Universitaly Portal Minimum Financial Proof €6,000 – €7,000 per academic year Visa Application Fee €76 Processing Time 15 to 90 days Latest Update on Italy Student Visa: New Visa Rules For International Students Ministry of University and Research in Italy guidelines

August 24, 2026
Top Universities in France, Courses, Fees, Admission, Scholarships & More!
Study AbroadTop Universities in France, Courses, Fees, Admission, Scholarships & More!

France is an ideal destination to study in world-class Universities for your UG or PG degrees. You can see the top Universities in France, which are mostly public institutions, and combine centuries of academic excellence with excellent research exposure, making the country one of the most sought-after destinations for global scholarships. Explore Universities in FranceWhy Indian Students Choose France for Higher Studies?Study at the top universities in France at affordable costs, and build a global career with unlimited growth and endless opportunities. Universities offer quality education at a lower cost than in most European countries. Many UG and PG programmes are offered in English medium. Vibrant student life and global exposure also make France an ideal destination for international students. France is the 1st country to sign a mutual agreement with India.A UG or PG degree from one of the world-class public universities in France gives you access to the 550 French organisations operating in India.Over 500 French scholarships, monetary assistance, or bursaries are available to Indian students.Over 1600 French programmes are taught in English medium.France has topped in research and innovation with around 78 Nobel Laureates and 13 Fields Medals.Let’s explore the best Universities in France for international students that offer a range of UG and PG programmes, tuition fees, admission process, scholarships, job prospects, and more! Before that, we will look at the advantages of studying in France for international students. Why Is France the Smart Choice?France is one of the countries that offers a rich cultural experience, a thriving student life, and proximity to the Schengen Zone. This not only enables international students to travel within Europe but also allows them to access France's strong economy and presence of international corporations. Universities in France also offer outstanding career and research opportunities, with globally recognised degrees holding significant international value.France is

August 24, 2026
MSc Computer Science in UK: Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility & Career Scope
Study AbroadMSc Computer Science in UK: Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility & Career Scope

Do you want to be a leader who solves future tech problems and contributes to the demand for modern technology? An MSc Computer Science in UK is the most sought-after postgraduate degree for graduates with B.Tech/B.E., BSc in CS/IT, or other relevant fields. Computer Science is the backbone of the modern world. This dynamic field helps in the development of every industry through Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Data Analytics. Studying an MS in Computer Science in the UK places students at the heart of global technological advancement. Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, King's College London, and more are some of the popular choices for studying an MS in CS in UK. International students can choose any of these universities to gain advanced knowledge and skills in computer science. Tuition fees for a master’s in computer science will be between £20,000 and £60,000 and more. Applicants are also eligible for a range of scholarships offered by UK Universities to full-time candidates. Therefore, applicants from around the world plan to study in UK to gain a strong foundation and pursue impactful careers in computer science. Explore this blog to understand more about studying an MSc in CS in the UK, including universities, rankings, tuition fees, scholarships, and more. Apply for MSc Computer Science in UK Why Study MSc Computer Science in UK? The United Kingdom is a prominent destination for an MS in CS due to its globally recognised, high-quality, shorter duration, strong industry links, diverse international environment, and impressive career opportunities. Mentioned below are the other reasons for students who still think “Why Study MSc Computer Science in UK?”: Top Global Universities: Home to globally ranked universities. World-Class Teaching: Offers world-class education to students. Fast Master’s Degrees: Offers shorter-duration master’s programs. Hands-On Skills: Focuses more on

August 20, 2026
Is Studying in Dubai Worth It for Indian Students? Fees, Jobs, Scholarships & ROI
Study AbroadIs Studying in Dubai Worth It for Indian Students? Fees, Jobs, Scholarships & ROI

In 2026, studying abroad options for Indian students are no longer limited to traditional destinations such as the UK, Canada, Australia, or the USA. Dubai has been coming to the fore, particularly because of its internationally standard education and its proximity to India. But is studying in Dubai actually worth the hype? This cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. It needs a thorough understanding of the academic infrastructure, career scopes, tuition costs, scholarships, and the ROI. Dubai cannot be marketed as a low-cost study destination, but it can surely be a more convenient option for Indian students than the UK, USA, Australia or Canada. Most importantly, with access to a fast-growing education sector and one of the world's major business hubs, Dubai can easily compete with the traditional hubs for studying abroad. According to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai's private institutions had enrolled 42,026 students across 41 institutions in 2025. This is the highest enrolment recorded to date. This gives you a clear sense of Dubai’s growing popularity among study-abroad aspirants. Discover the guide to learn about the fee structure, scholarships, living costs, jobs and career prospects and make an informed decision. Start Your Journey in Dubai Why Are Indian Students Choosing Dubai? Dubai offers a combination of global exposure and geographical proximity to India. But why has the destination become so popular? You might be wondering why students are choosing Dubai over universities in the UK and the USA. Let’s check the reasons: Global exposure: Students get the opportunity to study in the satellite campuses of prestigious UK and US universities while staying just a few hours away from India. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and Heriot-Watt University Dubai are two such examples. Active support system: Dubai has a significant number of migrant communities, so students

August 22, 2026
Post Study Work Visa UK: Graduate Route Requirements, Eligibility & Application Guide
Study AbroadPost Study Work Visa UK: Graduate Route Requirements, Eligibility & Application Guide

Many international students plan to study in the UK, not only to gain a globally recognised degree but also to secure a post-study visa after graduation. The Post Study Work Visa UK, officially known as the Graduate visa, gives permission to international students to stay in the UK after completing an eligible course. Currently, the visa lasts for 2 years for bachelor's and master's graduates if they apply on or before 31 December 2026. However, if graduates apply on or after 1 January 2027, the duration will be reduced to 18 months only. PhD or other doctoral degree graduates can stay up to 3 years. While the Graduate route does not count directly toward the time required for Indefinite Leave to Remain or Permanent Residency in the UK, it allows you to switch to a work visa later. This blog will help you understand more about the graduate visa, its eligibility, duration of stay, how to apply, and other benefits. Get Free Visa Guidance What is a Post Study Work Visa UK? The Post Study Work Visa UK is referred to as a Graduate visa route for foreign graduates. It is designed for students who complete their degree from UK universities and are looking to gain professional experience. PSW in the UK is an unsponsored route that allows visa holders to work, search for employment, and become self-employed for up to 2 years to bachelor's or master's graduates and up to 3 years for doctoral graduates. Graduates are allowed to live and work in the UK without any restrictions. Although the graduate visa does not directly lead to permanent settlement, it provides an opportunity to move from academic life to the professional world. It is managed by the UK Home Office, and applications are processed operationally through UK Visas and

August 18, 2026
Masters in Physiotherapy in USA: Admission, Fees, Intake, Eligibility & Top Universities
Study AbroadMasters in Physiotherapy in USA: Admission, Fees, Intake, Eligibility & Top Universities

The demand for physiotherapists is growing globally, making the Masters in Physiotherapy USA an attractive option for students seeking a strong career in the field of physical therapy. This field will help you explore excellent research opportunities and gain access to one of the world’s most dynamic healthcare systems. The United States Bureau of Labour Statistics showed 14% job growth for physiotherapy professionals between 2023 and 2033, which is much faster than the average for all professions, making the United States of America a most sought-after country for advanced physiotherapy education, research and career opportunities. Needless to mention that the healthcare industry is evolving rapidly, which is why the rehabilitation sciences have become more essential than ever before. As people age, acute, severe and chronic health issues increase, so the awareness of physical wellness grows. If you are one who aspires to build a rewarding healthcare career, then a Masters in Physiotherapy in USA can be your choice. It can open doors to advanced clinical practice, bespoke research exposure and a long-lasting global career. In this blog, we will explore fees, intake, eligibility, the admission process, and the top Universities in the USA that offer master’s programmes in Physiotherapy for international students. Get Free Counselling Why Study Masters in Physiotherapy in USA? As you know, the USA is a destination for the world’s leading healthcare institutions. The country also offers cutting-edge research opportunities and has highly ranked global universities. With a rigorous curriculum, strong patient base, interdisciplinary learning and solid evidence-based practice, the United States has become an excellent choice for aspiring physiotherapy professionals these days. Here are some of the factors that make masters in physiotherapy in USA for international students a great choice. World-class education Globally recognised master's degree Access to advanced healthcare curriculum, technologies and research Strong clinical

July 8, 2026
Top Universities in Netherlands for International Students (2026 Guide)
Study AbroadTop Universities in Netherlands for International Students (2026 Guide)

Based on recent records, many international students are choosing universities in Netherlands. Applying for study abroad might be the first step towards a successful career. Yet, students need to select the right university. This is mainly because of its high academic standards and global recognition. The country offers more affordable education than other European countries. Another plus point is that most of the courses are taught in English, which makes it highly accessible for international students. Quick Overview Aspect Details Education Recognised worldwide Language English Tuition fees Bachelor's courses: €6,000 - €15,000 per year Master's courses: €8,000 - €20,000 per year Intake September and February Career options Europe has plenty of opportunities In this comprehensive guide, we will look at the top-ranked universities in Netherlands- their rankings, fee structure, admission intakes, and much more!! Why choose Netherlands universities? The Netherlands is widely known for its modern education system and student-friendly environment. Here are a few of the many reasons why students should choose the Netherlands for studying abroad. English-taught programs: Netherlands universities for international students offer a wide range of courses taught in English. Universities ranked globally: Several universities rank high in global university rankings. Such institutions provide excellent education and high academic reputation. Affordable: As compared to leading destinations like the US and the UK, the cost of living in Netherlands is relatively lower. This is why studying in Netherlands becomes economical for foreign students. A safe and welcoming atmosphere: The Netherlands is famous for its security, warm nature of locals, and accommodating environment for foreign students. Good employment prospects: Students can avail themselves of good job opportunities after completion of their studies, as many international organisations recruit from this region. Another key benefit of studying in the Netherlands is that most of the universities there have state-sponsored funding

May 28, 2026
Scholarships for International Students: Complete Guide to Study Abroad Funding in 2026
Study AbroadScholarships for International Students: Complete Guide to Study Abroad Funding in 2026

The search for scholarships for international students may turn out to be the most effective way to afford studies abroad. At present, people tend to go to study abroad as it provides a global experience and more job opportunities. Countries such as the USA, UK, Australia, and New Zealand receive countless applicants annually owing to their educational systems. Nevertheless, going abroad requires significant costs associated with tuition fees, travelling expenses, and so on. Therefore, it is important to know how to get a scholarship to study abroad. Scholarships will be of great help in saving money and realising your ambitions in other countries. Begin looking for scholarships 8-12 months before entry, confirm that your credentials meet the requirements, have your supporting documents ready, and get good scores in IELTS/TOEFL to increase your prospects of admission. This guide may help you win a hassle-free study abroad scholarship. Scholarships for International Students. It is extremely essential to know precisely what one is looking for when applying for scholarships and grants for college students. The nomenclature of different kinds of financial aid may confuse some people. Thus, in the case of searching for scholarships and grants for college, you are looking for "free money" or an opportunity where you don't have to repay the loan once you graduate. Scholarships for international students usually depend on their accomplishments and are thus considered merit-based. This kind of scholarship is awarded for getting 95% scores in school or being a champion swimmer at the state level. Fellowships are typically intended for students pursuing a postgraduate or doctoral degree in a particular stream. Grants are typically need-based scholarships for international students, awarded to deserving students from low-income backgrounds who would otherwise be denied the opportunity to pursue higher studies. In such cases, it becomes easier to know

April 25, 2026
Masters in Cyber Security in UK: Top Universities, Fees, Scholarships, Jobs & More!
Study AbroadMasters in Cyber Security in UK: Top Universities, Fees, Scholarships, Jobs & More!

Do you want to build essential foundation skills while gaining hands-on experience using the latest technologies and learning industry case studies? Is it your long-cherished dream to prepare yourself for real-world career success in the cybersecurity field? If you say ‘yes’, then a masters in Cyber Security in UK can be your choice. This master’s course is an ideal study path for undergraduates who already possess a good foundation in computer science. A masters in Cyber Security in UK (MSc) programme aims to provide you with the skills, knowledge, and practical-based expertise to evaluate, design and build robust computer security systems which protect networks as well as data from terrorist attacks or cybercrime. Book a Free Counselling for Masters in Cyber Security in UK! Why Study Masters in Cyber Security in UK? You might have decided to pursue a PG in cybersecurity, but have questions about why to study masters in cyber security in UK. Let’s answer your question first. Why the UK and why a cybersecurity course in the UK? Key Benefits There are many key benefits of pursuing Masters in Cyber Security in UK for Indian Students. This MSc program in cybersecurity in the United Kingdom is available with an optional 1-year industry placement. If you choose this option, it will give you additional industrial experience by applying your skills and knowledge you have learnt in real-world settings. This master’s programme is actually a computer science programme, which will provide you with a specialisation combining practical skills and expertise in identifying as well as critically evaluating vulnerabilities and cybersecurity threats. The most advanced topics included in this course are: risk assessment of the distributed systems security, information security, digital forensics, cyber operations, penetration testing, management and compliance. Masters in Cyber Security in UK is taught by the highly-regarded

January 16, 2026
Education VibesEducation Scholar

Get Expert Guidance to Reach Your

Dream University