Despite the high cost of living in Australia, it remains a top expat destination. The quality of life tends to offset the costs, but we recommend thorough research to get a good idea of potential expenses.

Australia's most expensive city is Sydney, followed by Melbourne and Brisbane. A number of other Australian cities are also known for their high cost of living, such as Adelaide and Perth.

Cost of accommodation in Australia

Accommodation in Australia is on the expensive side of the scale, though this can vary depending on the city you choose to settle in. Location and convenience are largely responsible for high prices, with the more coveted destinations such as Sydney and Melbourne being pricier than smaller towns. Living further away from the city centre is a more cost effective, if slightly less convenient, option.

Renting Expat Accommodation in Australia

Cost of transport in Australia

The cost of getting around in Australia can vary, depending on whether you opt for public transport or your own car. Australia’s urban centres boast efficient public transport systems, including buses, trams, ferries, and trains.

Sydney and Melbourne, in particular, have extensive networks that service the city centre and outlying suburbs. In most cities, public transport costs considerably less than maintaining and running a private vehicle.

If you prefer the convenience and independence of driving, you should be aware that petrol prices in Australia can be fairly high, and urban areas can have substantial parking fees.

Getting Around in Australia

Cost of groceries in Australia

Groceries in Australia tend to be pricey, though this varies from city to city.  Australia is known for its fresh, locally produced fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats, and the prices often reflect the quality of the goods. Shopping at discount supermarkets like Aldi, or buying items in bulk at shops like Costco, can help keep grocery bills manageable.

Another way to save money on groceries in Australia is to shop at local farmers’ markets. Not only do these markets frequently have competitively priced produce, but they also allow you to directly support local farmers.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Australia

Eating out in Australia can also be pricey, especially in larger cities and popular tourist spots. That said, Australia’s diverse culinary scene also means there are options to suit a range of budgets. From upscale dining to food trucks and street food, there is something for everyone.

Similarly, you can take full advantage of Australia’s beautiful natural environment with plenty of free or low-cost entertainment options, such as beaches, parks and hiking trails.

Cost of education in Australia

If you’re moving to Australia with kids, you can rest easy in the knowledge that the public school system is reputable and, in many cases, affordable. However, in many states, temporary residence holders are required to pay tuition to enrol their children in the state system.

For those who prefer to send their children to one of Australia’s high-quality private or international schools, it is important to remember that tuition is required and is often expensive.

Education and Schools in Australia

Cost of healthcare in Australia

Many expats living in Australia won’t be permanent residents and therefore won’t qualify for Medicare, the national public healthcare system. Those who have waded through the red tape to obtain this documentation will, however, be pleased to learn that public healthcare in Australia is affordable and of a high standard.

Medicare is financed through taxes and allows permanent residents to access free comprehensive hospital care, as well as free or highly subsidised doctor consultations.

Private healthcare costs in Australia can be high. Unfortunately, there is no way for temporary residents to avoid these fees other than forking out for private insurance, which can be costly but guarantees access to private care.

Expat Healthcare in Australia

Cost of living in Australia chart

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Sydney in Australian dollars (AUD) for July 2026.