Cost of Living in Melbourne in 2025: Breakdown of Rent, Groceries, Transportation, & More
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The cost of living in Melbourne in 2025 is moderate compared to other major global cities, but still among the highest in Australia. A single person typically needs around AUD 1,67000 per month, excluding rent, while rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages AUD 2,409. Melbourne ranked 73rd out of 226 cities in Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living Survey.
Melbourne's expenses include public transport, groceries, dining, and utilities, all of which can add up based on lifestyle. Students may spend between AUD 1,500 monthly, depending on their accommodation and personal choices. Let's find out how much you might spend living in Melbourne in this guide.
What is the Cost of Living in Melbourne?
The average living expenses in Melbourne are higher than 90% of the cities in the world. Melbourne ranks as the fourth most expensive city in Australia, according to Numbeo's Cost of Living Index by City. While it is a popular destination for students and professionals alike, daily expenses can be significant. Here is a list of the monthly costs for different groups,
- A family of four spends about AUD 6,000 per month, excluding rent.
- A single person needs approximately AUD 1,670 per month, excluding rent.
- Students usually budget around AUD 1,500 monthly for living expenses.
Also Read: Cost of Living in Australia in 2025
Cost of Living in Melbourne Per Month
Understanding the average cost of living in Melbourne helps you plan your budget across housing, transport, and daily needs. The city offers a mix of urban comfort and high living standards, but expenses can add up quickly. Let’s explore what it costs to live in this vibrant city.
Melbourne Cost of Living: Monthly Housing Expenses
Housing is one of the biggest contributors to the overall cost of living in Melbourne. Prices vary based on location, property type, and proximity to the city centre. Here is a breakdown of average monthly rent prices in Melbourne.
|
Particulars |
Cost (AUD) |
|
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre |
2,409 |
|
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre |
1,881 |
|
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre |
4,583 |
|
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre |
3,078 |
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Average Living Cost in Melbourne: Grocery Expenses
Grocery expenses are a key part of the overall cost of living in the city and can vary depending on lifestyle and dietary preferences. Knowing the average prices of common food items helps in budgeting monthly shopping costs. Below is a table for grocery prices in Melbourne.
|
Particulars |
Cost (AUD) |
|
Milk (regular), (1 litre) |
2.29 |
|
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) |
4.00 |
|
Rice (white), (1kg) |
3.48 |
|
Eggs (regular) (12) |
7.36 |
|
Local Cheese (1kg) |
14.11 |
|
Chicken Fillets (1kg) |
14.16 |
|
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) |
22.61 |
|
Apples (1kg) |
4.92 |
|
Banana (1kg) |
4.41 |
|
Oranges (1kg) |
4.56 |
|
Tomato (1kg) |
6.22 |
|
Potato (1kg) |
4.19 |
|
Onion (1kg) |
3.54 |
|
Lettuce (1 head) |
3.33 |
|
Water (1.5-litre bottle) |
2.49 |
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Average Food Cost in Melbourne: Eating Out
Dining out in Melbourne offers a wide range of options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Below is an overview of average costs you can expect when eating out in Melbourne.
|
Particulars |
Cost (AUD) |
|
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant |
30.00 |
|
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course |
120.00 |
|
McMeal at McDonald's (or Equivalent Combo Meal) |
15.00 |
|
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught) |
11.25 |
|
Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) |
11.50 |
|
Cappuccino (regular) |
5.58 |
|
Coke/Pepsi (0.33-litre bottle) |
3.91 |
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Cost of Living in Melbourne: Transportation Expenses
Transportation is a major part of everyday spending in Melbourne, especially for students and working professionals. The city offers an extensive public transport system, including trams, trains, and buses. Here is a breakdown of common transport costs in Melbourne.
|
Particulars |
Cost (AUD) |
|
One-way Ticket (Local Transport) |
5.50 |
|
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) |
187.50 |
|
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) |
5.50 |
|
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) |
2.00 |
|
Taxi 1 hour waiting (Normal Tariff) |
43.32 |
|
Gasoline (1 litre) |
1.79 |
Average Cost to Live in Melbourne: Utility Expenses
Understanding utility costs is key to managing your monthly budget in Melbourne. These everyday expenses can vary depending on usage and location. Here is a table for average utility and transportation expenses in the city.
|
Particulars |
Cost (AUD) |
|
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment |
236.20 |
|
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10 GB+ Data |
32.90 |
|
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) |
78.46 |
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Cost of Living in Melbourne for International Students
For international students, planning finances is key to managing life in Melbourne smoothly. Monthly expenses include housing, food, transport, personal expenses, and more. Here is a breakdown of common costs for international students.
|
Particulars |
Monthly Cost (AUD) |
|
Accommodation |
800 - 2,000 |
|
Food and Groceries |
280 - 480 |
|
Transportation |
75 - 216 |
|
Utilities |
270 - 490 |
|
Entertainment |
100 - 120 |
|
Personal Expenses |
80 - 90 |
Also Read: Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students in 2025
How Does the Cost of Living in Melbourne Compare to Other Major Australian Cities?
Melbourne’s living expenses are high but still more affordable than cities like Sydney and Canberra in several categories. Comparing key costs across Australian cities can help you decide where to settle. Here is an overview of the average expenses of major Australian cities.
|
Type of expense |
Melbourne |
Sydney |
Brisbane |
Perth |
Adelaide |
|
Monthly Salary (after taxes) |
AUD 6,108 |
AUD 6,754 |
AUD 5,865 |
AUD 5,721 |
AUD 5,303 |
|
Cost of living |
AUD 3,434 |
AUD 3,974 |
AUD 3,155 |
AUD 3,247 |
AUD 3,096 |
|
Rent |
AUD 1,904 |
AUD 2,342 |
AUD 1,921 |
AUD 1,874 |
AUD 1,801 |
|
Food |
AUD 847 |
AUD 817 |
AUD 788 |
AUD 832 |
AUD 830 |
|
Transport |
AUD 463 |
AUD 585 |
AUD 233 |
AUD 323 |
AUD 268 |
|
Overall quality of life |
100 |
100 |
97 |
98 |
94 |
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Navigating Melbourne's Cost of Living with GetGIS
In conclusion, understanding the cost of living in Melbourne is vital for anyone considering a move to this dynamic city. With expenses ranging from accommodation to daily essentials and entertainment, proper budgeting is key to a comfortable lifestyle.
At GetGIS, we provide end-to-end assistance for students aspiring to study abroad, individuals seeking PR visas, and professionals in search of job opportunities in Melbourne. From helping you select the right university to offer job search assistance and post-landing services, GetGIS ensures that your transition to Melbourne is seamless and stress-free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a comfortable salary to live in Australia?
Is Melbourne expensive or Sydney?
How much tax do you pay in Australia?
- $18,200–$45,000 - 16%
- $45,000–$135,000 - 30%
- $135,000-$190,000 - 37%
Why are apartments in Melbourne so cheap?
Is it worth buying a 1 bedroom apartment in Melbourne?
