Cost of Living in Australia 2026–2027
It takes a good English proficiency score and AU $29,710 against living expenses for the first year of study to apply for the Subclass 500 Student Visa in Australia.
QEAC Certified Australia & New Zealand Education Expert | 18 Years Advising International Students
Hundreds of thousands of international students study in Australia each year, a nation ranking among the top study-abroad destinations in the world. When planning to study, one of the main things to think about is the cost of living in Australia, which is a vital part of the overall cost of studying in Australia.
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) in Australia has set the minimum official financial requirement for the Subclass 500 student visa as AU $29,710 for one year of living expenses, which is approximately AU $2,475 per month. The non-accommodation portion of your budget, covering essentials like food, transportation, and utilities, would range from AU $800 to AU $1,500 per month, depending on your lifestyle and location.
AECC Expert Advice for 2026–2027: While the visa requirement is AU $29,710, students should budget an additional 5% – 10% for annual CPI (inflation) increases in rent and utilities.
Let us delve into the cost of living in Australia, including housing and daily expenses for international students, so you can carefully plan your budget for the 2026–2027 academic session. We will also discuss proven ways shared by experts to reduce these costs and ease your financial burden of studying in Australia.
Housing Cost of Living in Australia Per Month 2026–2027
Depending on your choice of student accommodation in Australia, your budget against the monthly expenses in Australia can be estimated as follows:
| Accommodation Type | Monthly Cost (in AUD) | Factors to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Homestays | AU $1,000 – $1,400 | Varies with university and location |
| Halls of Residence | AU $1,060 – $3,260 | Varies with university and location |
| Apartment | AU $1,800 – $2,500+ | A private 1-bedroom apartment in a city is much higher on average |
| Shared Apartment | AU $600 – $1,900 | Depends on the city and the number of people |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
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City-Wise Average Cost of Living in Australia 2026–2027
The living expenses in Australia for international students greatly depend on the place of stay. For example, living in areas like St. Kilda West, South Brisbane, or Spring Hill may offer a lower average cost compared to the central business districts of metropolitan cities like Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne.
City-Wise Rent Comparison (Shared Room)
The Australian rental market is competitive, and prices are mostly determined by property type, proximity to transport facilities, and demand. An approximate average cost of living per month in different Australian cities is discussed below:
| City | Weekly Rent (in AUD) | Total Monthly Living Estimate (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | AU $350 – $480 | AU $2,500 – $4,200 |
| Melbourne | AU $280 – $380 | AU $2,100 – $3,500 |
| Brisbane | AU $240 – $350 | AU $1,900 – $3,000 |
| Perth | AU $230 – $320 | AU $1,800 – $2,800 |
| Adelaide | AU $210 – $300 | AU $1,600 – $2,400 |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
PLAN YOUR FINANCES FOR AUSTRALIA
Costs vary widely by city and lifestyle — let's build your personal budget.
Our counsellors can help you factor in tuition, accommodation, and living costs together — and identify scholarships or part-time work options to make studying in Australia more manageable.
Transportation Cost in Australia 2026–2027
Travel expenses within different cities are included in the living expenses in Australia for international students. In general, you will need to make a lot of travel to get where you are going if you live far from your university. However, you can take advantage of some of the student discounts offered to international students to manage these costs.
Public transportation is another option for getting around the city. It is quite convenient and has good connections. Instead of using cabs, riding the bus, train, or even just a bicycle for transportation can be far less expensive.
| Transportation | Average Cost (in AUD) | Factors to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| One-way Ticket: Full Fare | AU $4 – $6 | Varies by distance, zone, and city; using smartcard/app |
| Monthly Pass / Weekly Cap | AU $100 – $220 | Eligible undergraduate students can apply for the International Student Travel Pass, which provides a 50% discount on annual, 180-day, or 90-day passes, saving over AU $1,000 per year |
| Monthly Pass: Concession | AU $60 – $120 | Only available in certain states, including Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania, and for specific courses in others |
| Gasoline | AU $1.80 – $2.30 1 Litre | Highly volatile; necessary only if you plan to own/rent a car |
| Taxi/Rideshare | AU $2.50 – $3.50 per km | Starting tariff/flag fall is additional; use for occasional travel, not daily commute |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/ | https://transport.vic.gov.au/
AECC Expert Advice for 2026–2027: Victoria has started offering an International Student Travel Pass for 90, 180, and 365 days, which gives a 50% discount to eligible undergraduate students.
Utilities Cost in Australia 2026–2027
When living in Australia, a student's household expenses are also taken into consideration. It is important to pay necessary bills on time, including those for power, water, and internet. These essential utilities are included in the cost of the accommodations, but if they are not, you will need to factor them into the monthly cost of living in Australia.
Given below is a list of your typical household costs across the nation:
| Utility Type | Monthly Cost (in AUD) |
|---|---|
| Basic Utilities: Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage | Shared House: AU $150 – $250 per person Private Apartment: AU $250 – $400 |
| Internet / Wi-Fi | AU $50 – $80 |
| Mobile Phone Plan: Unlimited Talk/Text, Data | AU $25 – $50 |
| Total Utilities Budget: If renting privately | AU $225 – $530+ |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/ | https://transportnsw.info/
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Entertainment & Leisure Cost of Living in Australia 2026–2027
International students will probably find that the leisure and entertainment costs of living in Australia are somewhat higher. This vibrant environment could attract you with a variety of choices, including delicious food, movies, shopping, and more. In Australia, monthly expenses for shopping and entertainment might amount to about AU $150 – $400.
Here’s an overview of the monthly expenses related to sports, clothing, and leisure activities.
| Leisure Activity | Recommended Cost Range (in AUD) |
|---|---|
| Gym Membership (Monthly) | AU $50 – $100 |
| Cinema Ticket (Concession) | AU $15 – $20 |
| Eating Out (Casual Meal) | AU $15 – $25 |
| Total Monthly Leisure Budget | AU $150 – $400 |
Source: https://transport.vic.gov.au/ | https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
Need budgeting tips from experts? Connect with the AECC Australian team of counselling and learn from the experience of international students who have been placed in several universities across the country. Our counsellors extend support from the beginning of your application to helping you get settled abroad.
Healthcare Cost in Australia 2026–2027
When planning a study in Australia, one of the most important things that international students need to think about is the expense of healthcare abroad. International students must obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their stay to satisfy visa requirements. It is one of the undeniable and mandatory expenses that the overall cost of living in Australia comprises.
| Expense Category | Annual Cost (in AUD) | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| OSHC Premium (Single Student) | AU $600 – $750 per year | Mandatory, paid upfront for the entire visa duration |
| Emergency Ambulance | Covered by OSHC | All OSHC policies include ambulance cover |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Medical Services
Although OSHC provides cover, international students would encounter an ‘out-of-pocket gap’ where the doctor’s fee is higher than the amount set by the government (the Medicare Benefits Schedule, or MBS) that the OSHC will reimburse. This amounts to the unplanned cost of living in Australia.
| Healthcare Service | Full Fee (in AUD) | Student Out-of-Pocket Reality (The ‘Gap’) |
|---|---|---|
| General Practitioner (GP) Visits | AU $90 – $100 | AU $0 – $30. Many clinics ‘Bulk Bill’ the OSHC for the full cost, resulting in a $0 fee. If not, the gap is AU $20 – $30. |
| Specialist Consultation | AU $130 – $230 | AU $50 – $150. OSHC covers 85% of the MBS fee. A significant out-of-pocket gap is common if the specialist charges higher fees. |
| Prescription Medication | AU $25 – $35 | OSHC covers costs above a certain threshold (co-payment) for eligible medications, but the student pays the initial co-payment fee. |
| Dental / Optical / Physio | AU $50 – $500 (Session cost) | High Gap or Not Covered. These services are not covered by basic OSHC, requiring a separate, more expensive ‘Extras’ policy, or paying the full cost. |
| Emergency Room Visit | AU $500 – $1,000 | Largely Covered. OSHC covers necessary treatment in public hospitals for emergency admissions. |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/ | https://www.health.gov.au/
AECC Expert Advice for 2026–2027: Bulk billing is becoming harder to find in metropolitan areas such as Sydney and Melbourne. Check with your provider's app for a list of partnered 'Direct Billing' clinics.
Food & Grocery Cost in Australia 2026–2027
Food & grocery amounts to the everyday cost of living in Australia as an international student. If you cook your meals instead of frequently going out to expensive restaurants, it can be more economical. Locating neighbourhood supermarkets in Australia that sell the ingredients for meals you can make at home is a useful strategy.
The overall grocery budget for a student who cooks could range from AU $300 – $600 per month or AU $70 – $150 per week. The prices for some basic supplies and food items are as follows:
| Grocery Products | Average Cost (in AUD) |
|---|---|
| White Rice 1 Kg | AU $3.60 |
| White Fat Milk 1 Litre | AU $2.02 |
| 1 Kg Apples | AU $5.20 |
| 1 Kg Oranges | AU $2.60 |
| 1 Kg Tomatoes | AU $6.00 |
| 1.5 Litres of Water | AU $2.40 |
| Bread | AU $3.41 |
| 1 Kg Potatoes | AU $3.81 |
| Lettuce | AU $5.50 |
| 500 Gm Cheese | AU $7.70 |
| 1 Kg Bananas | AU $4.50 |
| Fast Food Combo Meal | AU $15.00 |
| 12 Eggs | AU $8.00 |
Source: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/
Food Expense in Australia (Real Costs +Tips)
Hear from real students studying in Australia on how much they actually spend on groceries and eating out. Find out their weekly budgets, where they shop, and how they manage food expenses as international students.
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Tips to Save Money in Australia for International Students
The most effective way to save money is through smart planning. By targeting an average expenditure of AU $2,500 per month as per the visa minimum, international students can effectively manage their finances. Exploring the different scholarships in Australia could also help offset the high cost of living in Australia for international students. Refer to the tips below for fool-proof cost-saving planning:
Tip 1: Prioritise Your Location
- Choose Affordable Cities: Rent is the highest cost. Cities like Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane, or regional areas, are significantly cheaper than Sydney and Melbourne.
- Shared Accommodation: Always opt to live in a shared house/apartment with flatmates to split the rent and utilities. This can save over AU $1,000 per month compared to a private apartment.
Tip 2: Control Food Costs
- Cook at Home: This is the single biggest saver when trying to reduce your living expenses in Australia. Budget to spend roughly AU $300 – $600 per month on groceries.
- Shop Smart: Buy non-perishables in bulk and hunt for weekly specials at budget supermarkets (Aldi, Coles, or Woolworths).
- Avoid Takeaway: Limit eating out, as a single casual restaurant meal can cost AU $20 – $30.
Tip 3: Maximise Student Discounts & Transport
- Get a Student ID/Pass: Using your student card to claim discounts (10% – 20%) at museums, cinemas, retailers, and restaurants would reduce your overall cost of living in Australia.
- Master Public Transport: Utilise buses, trains, and trams. In states that offer it (e.g., QLD, SA, WA), apply for the student concession card to halve your travel costs.
- Walk or Cycle: For short-distance commutes, a bike is the cheapest option after the initial purchase.
Tip 4: Earn and Budget Strategically
- Find Part-Time Work: Your Australian student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and full-time during breaks to supplement your living expenses.
- Track Spending: Using budgeting apps, like Splitwise for shared bills, to track every expense against your AU $2,500 monthly budget, helping you closely monitor your living expenses in Australia.
- Seek Financial Aid: Apply for both university and government scholarships, grants, and bursaries before and after arrival.
Tip 5: Be Smart with Finances & Utilities
- Use Low-Fee Banking/Transfer: Open a local Australian student bank account to avoid monthly fees and use money transfer services, instead of traditional bank wires, to save on international exchange fees.
- Manage Utilities: Be conscious of electricity/gas use, especially with heating and cooling, as these can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly bill if not managed.
Working Part-Time to Manage the Cost of Living in Australia
Working part-time helps manage the cost of living in Australia for international students. The Australian student visa allows a work limit of 48 hours per fortnight when the academic session is on and unlimited hours when scheduled course breaks or holidays. Australia's national minimum wage for all national and international workers has been set by the Fair Work Ombudsman Australia (Fairwork.gov.au).
AECC Expert Advice for 2026–2027: As of May 2026, the student visa work limit is strictly 48 hours per fortnight. While the minimum wage is AU $24.95, many retail and hospitality jobs pay Penalty Rates (higher pay) on Saturdays (125%) and Sundays (150%). Targeting weekend shifts is the best way to maximise your earnings within your visa limits.
In simple terms, you require careful financial planning to cope with the cost of living in Australia for international students. Location, lifestyle choices, and personal spending habits influence overall budgets. Nevertheless, students could manage their finances through budgeting, utilising several student discounts, and applying for various part-time jobs.
All set to study in Australia? Connect with AECC experts to get comprehensive guidance on everything from preparing and applying to the best Australian universities to booking the best accommodation abroad.
What is the Cost of Living in Australia 2026–2027 FAQs
In the context of international students, the most expensive Australian cities, due to higher rent and transport costs, are Sydney, costing around AU $2,200 – $4,000+ per month, and Melbourne, costing AU $1,900 – $3,800 per month for overall living. The most affordable major cities for students are Adelaide and the Gold Coast, with monthly living costs ranging from AU $1,400 – $2,100, according to the Studyaustralia.gov.au.
QEAC Certified Australia & New Zealand Education Expert | 18 Years Advising International Students