Cost of Living in Australia 2025 for International Students

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Study in Australia

Introduction
What is the Cost of Living in Australia?
Cost of Living in Australia Per Month: City-Wise
Cost of Living in Sydney & Melbourne
Why is Studying in Sydney More Expensive Than Melbourne?
How Living Expenses in Australia for International Students is Calculated?
How to Estimate Your Monthly Budget for Studying Abroad in Australia?
Australia Living Expenses for Students: Public vs Private Universities
Money-Saving Tips While Living in Australia
From the Desk of 爆料吃瓜网
Frequently Asked Questions about Cost of Living in Australia

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 INR 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.

Key Highlights:

Shared rentals in Australia while studying abroad costs INR 50,000 - 1.2 lakhs (AUD 850 - 2,100) per month, while university housing is INR 6 - 14 lakhs (AUD 10,200 - 25,200) per year.
Public transport costs vary by city, with an average monthly expense of INR 7,000 - 15,000 (AUD 120 - 270).
All international students must have OSHC, costing INR 35,000 - 55,000 (AUD 600 - 1,000) per year.
Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive, with living costs reaching INR 1.5 - 2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700) per month. More affordable cities like Adelaide and Canberra cost INR 1.2 - 1.6 lakhs (AUD 1,400 - 2,000) per month.
International students can work up to 20 hours per week and earn approximately AUD 22-30 per hour, helping to offset living expenses.

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.

What is the Cost of Living in Australia?

The average cost of living in Australia is around INR 12-20 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:

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost	Annual Cost
Accommodation (Shared Apartment, University Housing, or Private Rental)	INR 65,000 - 1.4 lakhs (AUD 800 - 1,700)	INR 8 - 16 lakhs (AUD 9,500 - 19,500)
Food & Groceries (Cooking at home & occasional dining out)	INR 22,000 - 40,000 (AUD 270 - 500)	INR 2.5 - 5 lakhs (AUD 3,000 - 6,000)
Transportation (Public transport, fuel, occasional taxi)	INR 7,000 - 18,000 (AUD 85 - 220)	INR 90,000 - 2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,100 - 2,600)
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Gas, Internet, Mobile Plan)	INR 10,000 - 20,000 (AUD 120 - 250)	INR 1.2 - 2.4 lakhs (AUD 1,500 - 3,000)
Healthcare & Insurance	INR 5,000 - 15,000 (AUD 60 - 180)	INR 60,000 - 1.8 lakhs (AUD 700 - 2,200)
Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Gym, Shopping)	INR 12,000 - 25,000 (AUD 150 - 300)	INR 1.4 - 3 lakhs (AUD 1,700 - 3,500)
Total Estimated Cost	INR 1.2 - 2 lakhs (AUD 1,400 - 2,500) per month	INR 12 - 20 lakhs (AUD 14,500 - 24,000) per year

Suggested: Bachelors in Australia

Cost of Living in Australia Per Month: City-Wise

The average cost of living in Australia by city ranges between INR 1.1 - 2.2 lakhs 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 INR 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	INR 75,000 - 1.5 lakhs (AUD 900 - 1,800)	INR 30,000 - 45,000 (AUD 360 - 540)	INR 10,000 - 18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)	INR 12,000 - 20,000 (AUD 150 - 250)	INR 15,000 - 30,000 (AUD 180 - 360)	INR 1.5 - 2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700)
Melbourne	INR 65,000 - 1.4 lakhs (AUD 800 - 1,700)	INR 28,000 - 42,000 (AUD 340 - 500)	INR 9,000 - 16,000 (AUD 110 - 200)	INR 10,000 - 18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)	INR 12,000 - 25,000 (AUD 150 - 300)	INR 1.4 - 2.1 lakhs (AUD 1,700 - 2,600)
Brisbane	INR 60,000 - 1.2 lakhs (AUD 750 - 1,500)	INR 26,000 - 38,000 (AUD 320 - 460)	INR 8,000 - 14,000 (AUD 100 - 170)	INR 9,000 - 16,000 (AUD 110 - 200)	INR 10,000 - 22,000 (AUD 120 - 270)	INR 1.3 - 1.8 lakhs (AUD 1,600 - 2,300)
Perth	INR 58,000 - 1.1 lakhs (AUD 700 - 1,400)	INR 25,000 - 36,000 (AUD 300 - 450)	INR 7,000 - 12,000 (AUD 85 - 150)	INR 8,000 - 14,000 (AUD 100 - 170)	INR 9,000 - 20,000 (AUD 110 - 250)	INR 1.2 - 1.7 lakhs (AUD 1,500 - 2,200)
Adelaide	INR 55,000 - 1 lakh (AUD 650 - 1,300)	INR 24,000 - 34,000 (AUD 290 - 420)	INR 6,000 - 10,000 (AUD 75 - 120)	INR 8,000 - 14,000 (AUD 100 - 170)	INR 9,000 - 18,000 (AUD 110 - 220)	INR 1.2 - 1.6 lakhs (AUD 1,400 - 2,000)
Canberra	INR 52,000 - 98,000 (AUD 630 - 1,200)	INR 24,000 - 32,000 (AUD 290 - 400)	INR 5,000 - 9,000 (AUD 60 - 110)	INR 7,000 - 12,000 (AUD 85 - 150)	INR 8,000 - 16,000 (AUD 100 - 200)	INR 1.1 - 1.5 lakhs (AUD 1,300 - 1,900)
Gold Coast	INR 50,000 - 95,000 (AUD 600 - 1,150)	INR 22,000 - 30,000 (AUD 270 - 360)	INR 5,000 - 8,000 (AUD 60 - 100)	INR 6,000 - 10,000 (AUD 75 - 120)	INR 8,000 - 14,000 (AUD 100 - 180)	INR 1.1 - 1.4 lakhs (AUD 1,300 - 1,800

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Cost of Living in Sydney & Melbourne

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 INR 1.5 - 2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700) per month. And while in Melbourne, it is a little lower at INR 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 (INR per month)	Melbourne (INR per month)
Accommodation	INR 75,000 - 1.5 lakhs (AUD 900 - 1,800)	INR 65,000 - 1.4 lakhs (AUD 800 - 1,700)
Food & Groceries	INR 30,000 - 45,000 (AUD 360 - 540)	INR 28,000 - 42,000 (AUD 340 - 500)
Transport	INR 10,000 - 18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)	INR 9,000 - 16,000 (AUD 110 - 200)
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Water)	INR 12,000 - 20,000 (AUD 150 - 250)	INR 10,000 - 18,000 (AUD 120 - 220)
Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Shopping, Leisure, etc.)	INR 15,000 - 30,000 (AUD 180 - 360)	INR 12,000 - 25,000 (AUD 150 - 300)
Total Monthly Cost	INR 1.5 - 2.2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 2,700)	INR 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 INR 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 INR 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	INR 50,000 - 1,20,000 (AUD 850 - 2,100)	INR 6 lakhs - 14 lakhs (AUD 10,200 - 25,200)
Food & Groceries	INR 18,000 - 35,000 (AUD 320 - 650)	INR 2 lakhs - 4 lakhs (AUD 3,840 - 7,800)
Transport	INR 7,000 - 15,000 (AUD 120 - 270)	INR 80,000 - 2 lakhs (AUD 1,440 - 3,240)
Utilities & Internet	INR 7,000 - 12,000 (AUD 120 - 210)	INR 80,000 - 1.5 lakhs (AUD 1,440 - 2,520)
Health Insurance (OSHC)	INR 3,000 - 5,000 (AUD 55 - 80)	INR 35,000 - 55,000 (AUD 600 - 1,000)
Miscellaneous (Shopping, Entertainment, Personal Expenses)	INR 8,000 - 15,000 (AUD 150 - 280)	INR 1 lakh - 2 lakhs (AUD 1,800 - 3,360)
Total Estimated Cost	INR 90,000 - 2 lakhs (AUD 1,600 - 3,600)	INR 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 (INR 17,57,000)
University of New South Wales	Public	23,140 AUD (INR 12,76,000)
University of Sydney	Public	44,500 AUD (INR 24,54,000)
The University of Queensland	Public	34,960 AUD (INR 19,28,000)
Australian National University	Public	31,628 AUD (INR 17,44,000)
Bond University	Private	43,200 AUD (INR 23,82,000)
Carnegie Mellon University	Private	58,000 AUD (INR 31,98,000)
Torrents University	Private	34,480 AUD (INR 19,01,000)
Avolande University	Private	34,736 AUD (INR 19,15,000)

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 INR 3-6 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.

From the Desk of 爆料吃瓜网

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 爆料吃瓜网 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.

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