Cost of Living in Brisbane in 2025: For Students, Single or Family
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Are you eyeing a move to Australia, with Brisbane, the "Queen City of the North," topping your list? Curious about the cost of living in Brisbane?
Excitingly, living expenses in Brisbane tend to be more affordable compared to bustling hubs like Sydney and Melbourne. Let’s explore the blog to uncover the ins and outs of Brisbane Australia cost of living, empowering you to chart your financial course before taking the leap Down Under.
Average Cost of Living in Brisbane Australia (2025)
The average cost of living in Brisbane for a family of 4 monthly, excluding rent, is approximately AU$ 7,227- 8,524, while the cost of living in Brisbane for a single person monthly, excluding rent, is about AU$ 3,155 – 5,216.
Also don't forget to know what are the ultimate Pros and Cons of Living in Australia in 2025. Check out the link for details.
Major Living Expenses in Brisbane
Having understood the average cost of living in Brisbane Australia for individuals and families, it is crucial to know what are the factors contributing to this budget. Let us find out.
1. Cost of Living in Brisbane: Accommodation Expenses (2025)
The average living cost in Brisbane is significantly impacted by monthly accommodation expenses. Here's a breakdown for your reference:
Particulars |
Average Cost Per Month(AUD) |
Average Cost Per Month (INR) |
Rent for 1-bedroom inner-city Brisbane apartment |
2,600 |
142,038 |
Rent for 1-bedroom suburban/regional apartment |
2,170 |
118,547 |
Rent for 3-bedroom inner-city Brisbane apartment |
3,889 |
212,390 |
Rent for 3-bedroom suburban/regional apartment |
2,970 |
162,251 |
Also, the average price per square meter to purchase an apartment in the city center of Brisbane ranges from AU$ 9,000 to AU$ 18,000, with a median value of AU$ 13,900. While outside of the city center, the average price falls between AU$ 6,000 and AU$ 13,993, with an average of AU$ 10,060.
2. Cost of Living in Brisbane: Transportation Expenses
In Brisbane, public transportation revolves around the convenient Go Card, a prepaid pass granting access to trains, buses, ferries, city cats, and soon, the cross-river light rail. Timetables are easily accessible via Translink's phone, website, or app.
Commuters taking more than 8 trips weekly enjoy a 50% discount, while subsidies cater to students and individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, inner-city area explorers have an option of electric scooters and bikes for hire, enhancing commuting options. Brisbane continues to enhance its network of bike paths, making cycling a convenient way to navigate inner-city suburbs.
Here's a breakdown of the monthly costs for various modes of transportation:
Particulars |
Average Cost Per Month(AUD) |
Average Cost Per Month (INR) |
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) |
3.50 |
191 |
Taxi 1 km (Normal Tariff) |
2.20 |
120 |
Taxi 1-hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) |
55 |
3,005 |
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) |
4.30 |
235 |
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) |
220 |
12,019 |
Gasoline (1 liter) |
2.10 |
115 |
3. Cost of Living in Brisbane: Grocery Expenses (2025)
In Brisbane, grocery prices run about 2.5% higher than the national average. For a single person, budgeting around $185 per month for groceries is advisable, though this can vary based on individual preferences.
Item |
Average Cost (AUD) |
Average Cost (INR) |
White Rice (1 kg) |
3.10 |
169 |
White Bread (500 g) |
3.20 |
175 |
Tomatoes (1 kg) |
5.60 |
306 |
Round Beef (1 kg) |
20.50 |
1,122 |
Potatoes (1 kg) |
3.90 |
213 |
Oranges (1 kg) |
6.10 |
333 |
Milk (1 L) |
1.85 |
101 |
Local Cheese (1 kg) |
15.50 |
847 |
Lettuce (1 head) |
3.20 |
175 |
Eggs (12) |
6.40 |
350 |
Chicken Breasts (1 kg) |
12.30 |
672 |
Bananas (1 kg) |
4.20 |
229 |
Apples (1 kg) |
5.10 |
278 |
4. Cost of Living in Brisbane: Utility Expenses (2025)
The average utilities cost in Brisbane, maintaining electricity, heating, water, and garbage services for an 85 m2 apartment ranges around AU$178 to AU$400 per month.
With summers being notably tropical and humid, cooling expenses, especially for air-conditioning, can significantly rise. However, Queenslanders have capitalized on the abundant sunshine by installing solar power systems in many homes.
Particulars |
Average Cost (USD) |
Average Cost (INR) |
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan (10GB+ Data, Calls) |
32–38 |
1,748–2,076 |
Internet (60 Mbps, Unlimited Data) |
75–80 |
4,097–4,370 |
Basic Utilities (85m² Apartment) |
320 |
17,482 |
5. Cost of Living in Brisbane: Fun & Entertainment Expenses
Now that you are versed with the basic necessities and their expenses that account for Brisbane's cost of living per month, let us also list down the entertainment expenses that might be an addition to your budget if considered.
Next, after the dine-out prices are the cost of fitness and entertainment expenses. These include
Particulars |
Average Cost (AUD) |
Average Cost (INR) |
Water (0.33 liter bottle) |
3.60 |
197 |
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant |
22.50 |
1,230 |
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course |
128.00 |
6,991 |
Meal for 2, in Neighboring Pub |
78.00 |
4,262 |
McMeal at McDonald's (or Equivalent Combo Meal) |
16.50 |
902 |
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle) |
12.80 |
699 |
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter) |
12.80 |
699 |
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) |
4.60 |
252 |
Cappuccino (regular) |
5.50 |
300 |
Next, after the dine-out prices are the cost of fitness and entertainment expenses. These include:
Particulars |
Average Cost (AUD) |
Average Cost (INR) |
Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour, Weekend) |
29.50 |
1,611 |
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee (1 Adult) |
85.00 |
4,644 |
Cinema, International Release (1 Seat) |
21.00 |
1,148 |
Cost of Living in Brisbane for International Students
Along with knowing the Benefits of Studying in Australia for Indian Students in 2025 city i.e.Brisbane, it is also crucial to estimate the average living expenses in Brisbane for international students, which ranges between AU$ 24,000 - AU$ 30,000. The detailed breakdown is provided below.
Item |
Cost (Per Month in AUD) |
Cost (Per Month in INR) |
Off-Campus Accommodation |
$620 |
₹33,871 |
On-Campus Accommodation |
$1,390 |
₹75,926 |
Transportation |
$135 |
₹7,374 |
Food (Eating Out) |
$820 |
₹44,797 |
Entertainment |
$75 |
₹4,097 |
Groceries |
$155 |
₹8,478 |
Clothes |
$72 |
₹3,931 |
Total (Off-Campus) |
$1,877 |
₹102,548 |
Total (On-Campus) |
$2,647 |
₹144,603 |
For detailed cost heads and expenses, you can explore our article on Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students in 2025.
Brisbane Australia Cost of Living: Applicable Tax Slabs for Residents
Understanding the tax landscape in Brisbane is crucial for anyone considering living or working in the city. Like the rest of Australia, income tax in Brisbane is levied based on different salary brackets or income levels.
All Australian residents, whether temporary or permanent, are required to pay taxes according to the applicable tax rates.
The table showcases the tax obligations for various income levels in Brisbane:
Taxable Income (AUD) |
Tax Payable |
$0 – $18,200 |
Nil |
$18,201 – $45,000 |
16c for each $1 over $18,200 |
$45,001 – $135,000 |
$4,288 plus 30c for each $1 over $45,000 |
$135,001 – $190,000 |
$31,288 plus 37c for each $1 over $135,000 |
$190,001 and over |
$51,638 plus 45c for each $1 over $190,000 |
Curious to find out the best pathway to work and settle in Australia? How to Work and Settle with an Australia Skilled Visa in 2025 is all you need. Find out how.
Budget Your Cost of Living in Brisbane With GetGIS
Comprehending the average living cost in Brisbane is crucial for students and working professionals alike, ensuring effective expense management while maintaining funds for essential living needs.
If you require assistance budgeting your average living expenses in Brisbane or planning your immigration to Australia, turn to GetGIS. Our immigration assistance team is dedicated to supporting you throughout your immigration journey, from pre- to post-landing services.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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