Introduction

Australia stands as the world's third preferred study destination with over 600,000 international students attending its universities by 2024.

Students must evaluate the high living expenses in Australia along with its world-class educational opportunities before deciding to study there.

International students in Australia pay annual living costs between ₹12-20 lakhs (AUD 14,500-24,000) which vary according to their city of residence, lifestyle choices and accommodation type.  For students planning to study in Australia, it’s important to understand the daily expenses beyond tuition fees.

In this blog, we will break down the cost of living in Australia for Indian students, covering expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, household bills, and explore whether Australia is affordable or expensive for students in 2025.

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What is the Cost of Living in Australia?

The average cost of living in Australia is around ₹9 lakhs - ₹16 lakhs (AUD 14,500 - 24,000) per year. This depends on many factors such as accommodation, food, transportation costs and personal spending. This cost changes as per the city you are living in, your spending habits, and if you have a part-time job.

While Sydney and Melbourne rank among Australia's most expensive cities to live in, Adelaide, Canberra, and Gold Coast provide more cost-effective options for housing and everyday expenses. Students save money because public universities charge lower tuition fees than private schools.

Let’s see what an international student typically spends per month in Australia:

Category

AUD (per month)

₹(per month)

Accommodation

600 - 1,500

₹33,690 - ₹84,225

Food & Groceries

300 - 600

₹16,845 - ₹33,690

Transportation

80 - 150

₹4,492 - ₹8,423

Household Bills

50 - 100

₹2,808 - ₹5,616

Shopping

200 - 400

₹11,232 - ₹22,464

Miscellaneous

100 - 200

₹5,616 - ₹11,232

Total (approx.)

1,330 - 2,950

₹74,683 - ₹1.6 lakh

 

Suggested: Bachelors in Australia

Cost of Living in Australia Per Month: City-Wise

The average cost of living in Australia in 2025 ranges between AUD 1,330 - 2,950 or ₹74,683 - ₹1.6 lakh per month for international students.

This range varies significantly depending on the city you choose, with Sydney and Melbourne being on the higher end and cities like Gold Coast, Adelaide, and Canberra being more affordable.

As an international student, choosing the right city can make a huge impact on your budget. For example, living in Adelaide or Canberra can cost around ₹1.2 - 1.6 lakhs (AUD 1,400 - 2,000) per month to an international student

The cost is mainly because of  place, transport, and general living expenses. Let's check out the monthly cost of living across major Australian cities:

City

Accommodation

Food & Groceries

Transport

Utilities

Miscellaneous

Total Monthly Cost

Sydney

₹75,000 - ₹1.5 lakhs (AUD 900 - 1,800)

₹30,000 - ₹45,000 (AUD 360 - 540)

₹10,000 - ₹18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)

₹12,000 - ₹20,000 (AUD 150 - 250)

₹15,000 - ₹30,000 (AUD 180 - 360)

₹1.5 - ₹2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700)

Melbourne

₹65,000 - ₹1.4 lakhs (AUD 800 - 1,700)

₹28,000 - ₹42,000 (AUD 340 - 500)

₹9,000 - ₹16,000 (AUD 110 - 200)

₹10,000 - ₹18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)

₹12,000 - ₹25,000 (AUD 150 - 300)

₹1.4 - ₹2.1 lakhs (AUD 1,700 - 2,600)

Brisbane

₹60,000 - ₹1.2 lakhs (AUD 750 - 1,500)

₹26,000 - ₹38,000 (AUD 320 - 460)

₹8,000 - ₹14,000 (AUD 100 - 170)

₹9,000 - ₹16,000 (AUD 110 - 200)

₹10,000 - ₹22,000 (AUD 120 - 270)

₹1.3 - ₹1.8 lakhs (AUD 1,600 - 2,300)

Perth

₹58,000 - ₹1.1 lakhs (AUD 700 - 1,400)

₹25,000 - ₹36,000 (AUD 300 - 450)

₹7,000 - ₹12,000 (AUD 85 - 150)

₹8,000 - ₹14,000 (AUD 100 - 170)

₹9,000 - ₹20,000 (AUD 110 - 250)

₹1.2 - ₹1.7 lakhs (AUD 1,500 - 2,200)

Adelaide

₹55,000 - ₹1 lakh (AUD 650 - 1,300)

₹24,000 - ₹34,000 (AUD 290 - 420)

₹6,000 - ₹10,000 (AUD 75 - 120)

₹8,000 - ₹14,000 (AUD 100 - 170)

₹9,000 - ₹18,000 (AUD 110 - 220)

₹1.2 - ₹1.6 lakhs (AUD 1,400 - 2,000)

Canberra

₹52,000 - ₹98,000 (AUD 630 - 1,200)

₹24,000 - ₹32,000 (AUD 290 - 400)

₹5,000 - ₹9,000 (AUD 60 - 110)

₹7,000 - ₹12,000 (AUD 85 - 150)

₹8,000 - ₹16,000 (AUD 100 - 200)

₹1.1 - ₹1.5 lakhs (AUD 1,300 - 1,900)

Gold Coast

₹50,000 - ₹95,000 (AUD 600 - 1,150)

₹22,000 - ₹30,000 (AUD 270 - 360)

₹5,000 - ₹8,000 (AUD 60 - 100)

₹6,000 - ₹10,000 (AUD 75 - 120)

₹8,000 - ₹14,000 (AUD 100 - 180)

₹1.1 - ₹1.4 lakhs (AUD 1,300 - 1,800

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Cost of Living in Sydney & Melbourne, Australia

The cost of living in Sydney and Melbourne ranks them among Australia's expensive cities, and still they are preferred destinations for international students.

Top universities along with good lifestyles and strong job markets make these cities attractive destinations. You must be aware that these features have their own financial cost.

The average cost of living in Sydney is ₹1.5 - 2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700) per month. And while in Melbourne, it is a little lower at ₹1.4 - 2.1 lakhs (AUD 1,700 - 2,600) per month.  The main cost factor in both cities is place, followed by transport and daily expenses.

So, let's take a look at the monthly living costs in Sydney and Melbourne for international students:

Expense Category

Sydney (₹per month)

Melbourne (₹per month)

Accommodation

₹75,000 - ₹1.5 lakhs (AUD 900 - 1,800)

₹65,000 - ₹1.4 lakhs (AUD 800 - 1,700)

Food & Groceries

₹30,000 - ₹45,000 (AUD 360 - 540)

₹28,000 - ₹42,000 (AUD 340 - 500)

Transport

₹10,000 - ₹18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)

₹9,000 - ₹16,000 (AUD 110 - 200)

Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Water)

₹12,000 - ₹20,000 (AUD 150 - 250)

₹10,000 - ₹18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)

Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Shopping, Leisure, etc.)

₹15,000 - ₹30,000 (AUD 180 - 360)

₹12,000 - ₹25,000 (AUD 150 - 300)

Total Monthly Cost

₹1.5 - ₹2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700)

₹1.4 - ₹2.1 lakhs (AUD 1,700 - 2,600)

Why is Studying in Sydney More Expensive Than Melbourne?

  • Higher Rent: Housing costs in Sydney are about 15-20% higher than in Melbourne, and that’s largely driven by demand.

  • Transport Costs: Public transport in Sydney seems to be pricier a to s compared to Melbourne’s Myki card system, which actually offers better discounts for students.

  • Daily Expenses: Eating out and entertainment options in Sydney tend to be pricier than in Melbourne.

  • Job Market & Wages: Sydney has a higher cost of living, but salaries are also higher, especially in sectors like IT, finance, and healthcare.

How Living Expenses in Australia for International Students is Calculated?

The Australian Government has set a financial requirement for student visas, which means that international students need to show they have at least ₹16 - ₹18 lakhs (AUD 24,505) each year to cover their living expenses. However, the actual costs can vary quite a bit.

When you're trying to figure out the cost of living in Australia, it's suggested to remember that these expenses aren't set in stone. They can change based on things like where you live, your lifestyle, and how you like to spend your money.

Now, how do they actually come up with these numbers?

Let’s break down the living costs for international students in Australia:

  • Accommodation Costs: Rent is usually the major monthly bill for students. The expense can vary depending on whether you’re in PG, a private place, or on-campus. It also depends on the city. For example, Sydney and Melbourne have higher rents, while places like Adelaide and Canberra are generally more cost-friendly.

  • Food & Daily Expenses: Grocery expenses are based on supermarket costs, while dining out and entertainment can fluctuate depending on personal choices. Students who whip up meals at home can save a lot compared to those who eat out often.

  • Transport Costs: The cost of public transport changes by city and the discounts available for students. For example, Melbourne offers transport concessions, while Sydney seems to have higher fares for those who aren’t locals.

  • Utilities & Internet: Electricity bills, water bills, heating, and internet can add to your living costs.

  • Health Insurance & Miscellaneous Expenses: All international students in Australia are needed to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and this can cost between ₹32,000 and 54,000 (AUD 600 to 1,000) per year.

How to Estimate Your Monthly Budget for Studying Abroad in Australia?

A general formula for calculating living expenses:

Total Monthly Cost = Accommodation + Food + Transport + Utilities + Healthcare + Miscellaneous Expenses

By breaking it down, students can prioritise essential expenses and adjust their spending accordingly. This can help avoid financial stress and make budgeting for your time in Australia much simpler.

Total Cost of Living in Australia

Now that you know the cost of living in Australia into various categories, let’s add up everything and calculate the total monthly and yearly expenses for an international student.

Although, you must keep in mind that actual costs may be different according to your life, city, and lifestyle. Here’s the average monthly and yearly expenses you might expect:

Expense Category

Monthly Cost (INR) (AUD in brackets)

Yearly Cost (INR) (AUD in brackets)

Accommodation

₹50,000 - ₹1.2 lakh (AUD 850 - 2,100)

₹6 lakhs - ₹14 lakhs (AUD 10,200 - 25,200)

Food & Groceries

₹18,000 - ₹35,000 (AUD 320 - 650)

₹2 lakhs - ₹4 lakhs (AUD 3,840 - 7,800)

Transport

₹7,000 - ₹15,000 (AUD 120 - 270)

₹80,000 - ₹2 lakhs (AUD 1,440 - 3,240)

Utilities & Internet

₹7,000 - ₹12,000 (AUD 120 - 210)

₹80,000 - ₹1.5 lakhs (AUD 1,440 - 2,520)

Health Insurance (OSHC)

₹3,000 - ₹5,000 (AUD 55 - 80)

₹35,000 - ₹55,000 (AUD 600 - 1,000)

Miscellaneous (Shopping, Entertainment, Personal Expenses)

₹8,000 - ₹15,000 (AUD 150 - 280)

₹1 lakh - ₹2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 3,360)

Total Estimated Cost

₹90,000 - 2 lakhs (AUD 1,600 - 3,600)

₹11 lakhs - 24 lakhs (AUD 19,200 - 43,200)

Australia Living Expenses for Students: Public vs Private Universities

The cost of living in Australia for Indian students is also affected by the type of university, whether it is a public or private university. The public universities in Australia are funded by the state government or through some subsidies, whereas Private Universities are funded by investors and require tuition fees from students.

Here is a difference between the tuition fees of both types of universities included in the cost of living in Australia for students:

University Name

Type of University

Average Annual Fees

University of Melbourne

Public

31,870 AUD (₹17.5 lakhs)

University of New South Wales

Public

23,140 AUD (₹12.7 lakhs)

University of Sydney

Public

44,500 AUD (₹24.5 lakhs) 

The University of Queensland

Public

34,960 AUD (₹19 lakhs)

Australian National University

Public

31,628 AUD (₹17.5 lakhs) 

Bond University

Private

43,200 AUD (₹24 lakhs) 

Carnegie Mellon University

Private

58,000 AUD (₹32 lakhs)

Torrents University

Private

34,480 AUD (₹19 lakhs)

Avolande University

Private

34,736 AUD (₹19 lakhs)

So to plan your average monthly expenses in Australia effectively, some of the crucial parameters include:

Money-Saving Tips While Living in Australia

Living in Australia as an international student can really be expensive, but with a few simple tweaks to your lifestyle, you can save a good chunk of amount. Whether it’s about where you choose to live or how you manage your daily expenses, smart budgeting can help you keep costs down.

Many students find that by planning ahead and making wise financial decisions, they can balance their studies while keeping their spending in check.

Here are some tips to help you save money:

  • Opt for Shared or Off-Campus Accommodation: Rent is without a doubt one of the biggest expenses for international students. By choosing to live in PG or looking at suburbs instead of city centers, you could save anywhere from ₹3 lakhs- ₹6 lakhs (AUD 5,000-10,000) each year.

  • Use Student Transport: Public transport in Australia is pretty convenient, and students can wholeheartedly take advantage of discounted travel cards.

  • Look for Student Discounts Everywhere: Many brands, restaurants, and entertainment venues offer student discounts. Apps like UNiDAYS and Student Edge are amazing and offer exclusive discounts and can help you save a lot.

  • Work Part-Time to Cover Expenses: International students studying in Australia can work up to 20 hours a week. These part time jobs can help you manage daily expenses without affecting your studies.

  • Use Affordable Health Insurance & Avoid Unnecessary Medical Costs: While health insurance is important, you can look around for different student insurance plans and find one that suits your budget.

Suggested: Application Requirements to Study in Australia

From the Desk of Yocket

Studying in Australia is a fantastic opportunity. But hey, we all know, the cost of living can really influence your decision. It’s important to understand that your expenses go beyond just tuition fees.Things like rent, food, transportation, and other everyday costs can really add up.

But hey you, don’t worry! By picking the right city, applying for scholarships, and taking advantage of student discounts, you can obviously lower those costs.

For example, cities like Adelaide and the Gold Coast provide excellent education at a fraction of the price compared to Sydney or Melbourne.

Another important thing to consider is the job market. If you end up getting a good-paying job post-graduation, it can make the financial burden of studying abroad much more manageable. Australia’s Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485) allows students to stay and work for up to four years, even after they complete their degree.

With Yocket Premium, you not only get your profile built by our top-of-the-field counsellors, but you also get guidance for making a strong application that will get you the admission you are looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cost of Living in Australia

Is it costly to live in Australia?

What is the average monthly cost of living in Australia?

Is Australia cheap or expensive?

How much does a meal cost in Australia?

How much does it cost an Indian students to live in Australia?

What are the cheapest cities to live in Australia?

What is the average cost of living for international students in Australia?

How much should I budget for accommodation?

Are there any mandatory health insurance requirements?

Can international students work part-time to support their expenses?

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