Students who want to study in Australia have to plan carefully, knowing well about the cost of living in Australia in some of the popular cities to live in, to have an equally comfortable stay while focusing on their studies. On average, the cost of living in Australia is between AU$1,200 per month in the lower range and can go as high as AU$3,000 per month for international students living in popular cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide. The quality of living is high in these cities in Australia, but they also require financial planning to match your financial needs and expectations. We will look at an overview of living expenses in Australia for the major cities that are in popular demand, especially among international students.

Some Popular Cities of Australia to Live in For International Students

Listed below are some of the most popular cities to determine the cost of living in Australia:

Sydney: The Most Expensive and Popular City

The most popular and widely known cosmopolitan city of Australia is Sydney. Being the most popular city in Australia, Sydney is also the most expensive city to live in for international students studying in Australia, enrolling in some of the popular universities, like the University of Sydney or UNSW. Here are some of the costs associated with living in Sydney for international students:

• Accommodation - AU$250-2,950 per month

• Food & Groceries - AU$220-500 per month

• Transportation - AU$120-200 per month (Oplus card discount)

• Utilities & Internet - AU$100-600 per month

• Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal care) - AU$50-600 per month

Melbourne: Comfortable But Cheaper Than Sydney

The cost of living in Australia’s Melbourne is in the range of AU$1,400-2,500 per month. Most liveable cities in Australia are expensive to live in, but not more than Sydney. Melbourne is known for its culture, food scene, and top universities, and can range in the following manner for each cost: 

• Accommodation - AU$300-2,500 per month

• Food & Groceries - AU$150-450 per month

• Transportation - AU$140-200 per month

• Utilities & Internet - AU$90-140 per month

• Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal care) - AU$180-250 per month

Brisbane: An Australian City With A Warm Climate

The cost of living in Australia’s Brisbane is between AU$1,200 and AU$2,500 per month. It is relatively affordable compared to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, with a warm climate that many students prefer to study in Australia. Here is a cost breakdown of Brisbane for international students:

• Accommodation - AU$600-2,000 per month

• Food & Groceries - AU$200-400 per month

• Transportation - AU$100-150 per month (monthly go card)

• Utilities & Internet - AU$80-130 per month

• Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal care) - AU$150-300 per month

Perth: A Fairly Crowded and Affordable Option

Perth is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia, which has gained a reputation for its work opportunities and quality of life. The cost of living in Australia is generally high, but Perth is among the affordable options, as the monthly expenses can range from AU$1,200 to AU$2,000. For students who choose Perth as their study abroad destination, here is a cost breakdown to live in the city for international students:

• Accommodation - AU$600-1,200 per month

• Food & Groceries - AU$200-500 per month

• Transportation - AU$120-160 per month (on student concessions)

• Utilities & Internet - AU$80-120 per month 

• Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal care) - AU$100-500 per month

Adelaide: One of the Most Affordable Australian Cities

Adelaide is one of the most affordable cities with the lowest cost of living in Australia. The city offers a relaxing lifestyle with top universities like the University of Adelaide and UniSA. Here is a cost breakdown to live in Adelaide for international students:

• Accommodation - AU$500-850 per month

• Food & Groceries - AU$90-300 per month

• Transportation - AU$80-230 per month (on student discounts)

• Utilities & Internet - AU$60-110 per month 

• Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal care) - AU$120-200 per month

Conclusion

Students who want to study in Australia can consider cities like Sydney or Melbourne for a vibrant and bustling lifestyle. Cities like Adelaide and Perth are more affordable than major ones like Sydney or Melbourne, while offering a comfortable environment to study abroad in Australia. The cost of living in Australia is manageable if one plans the budget according to the particular city.

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