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Australia Cost of Living 2026

City-by-city breakdown — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and dining. Sydney vs Melbourne and more.

🏙️ City Comparison (Weekly, AUD)

City 1-BR Rent/wk Groceries/wk Monthly Total
🏙️ Sydney $600-$750 $120 $3,800-$4,500
🏙️ Melbourne $450-$600 $110 $3,000-$3,800
☀️ Brisbane $400-$550 $100 $2,700-$3,500
🌊 Perth $450-$600 $110 $3,000-$3,800
🏛️ Canberra $450-$580 $110 $3,000-$3,600
🍷 Adelaide $350-$450 $100 $2,400-$3,000
🏝️ Hobart $350-$450 $100 $2,400-$3,000
☀️ Gold Coast $400-$500 $100 $2,700-$3,200

Note: Rent in Australia is often quoted per WEEK, not monthly! Monthly = weekly × 4.33.

🛒 Everyday Prices (AUD)

🥛 Groceries

Milk (2L): $3.50
Bread: $3.50
Eggs (12): $5.50
Rice (2kg): $5.00
Chicken (1kg): $12.00
Banana (1kg): $4.50

🏪 Supermarkets

Coles & Woolworths: Main chains
ALDI: Cheapest! Save 20-30%
IGA: Convenient, slightly pricier
Costco: Bulk buying, membership
• Weekly spend (1 person): $100-$150

🍽️ Dining Out

Fast food: $12-$18
Casual restaurant: $25-$40
Mid-range dinner: $50-$80
Flat white coffee: $5.00
Beer (pub): $10-$14
No tipping required!