By Jerry Games 
Australia consistently ranks among the top destinations for international students, skilled migrants, and expats seeking a better quality of life. Sydney, in particular, attracts thousands of people every year thanks to its world-class universities, strong job market, and vibrant lifestyle. But before moving, it’s essential to understand the Costs of Living in Sydney, as it is one of the most expensive cities not only in Australia but also globally.
In this blog, we’ll explore the cost of living in Sydney for students, expats, and families, while also comparing it with the Cost of Living in Melbourne and other major cities to give you a complete picture of the Cost of Living in Australia.
Sydney is Australia’s largest city and financial hub. It offers stunning beaches, cultural diversity, and career opportunities across industries such as finance, IT, healthcare, and education. However, these benefits come at a price. From high rental rates to costly transportation, Sydney is known for its expensive lifestyle. Still, for many, the opportunities outweigh the expenses.
For international students, budgeting plays a big role in managing life abroad. Sydney has top universities like the University of Sydney, UNSW, and UTS, which attract thousands of students.
- Shared apartment: AUD 250 – 400 per week
- On-campus housing: AUD 200 – 450 per week
- Homestay: AUD 300 – 400 per week
Most students prefer shared apartments or homestays to cut down costs.
Cooking at home is cheaper than eating out. On average:
- Groceries: AUD 70 – 120 per week
- Eating out (budget meal): AUD 15 – 25 per meal
- Concession Opal card (discounted student travel): AUD 25 – 40 per week
- Public transport is reliable and cost-effective compared to owning a car.
- Internet & phone: AUD 20 – 40 per week
- Entertainment and social activities: AUD 50 – 100 per week
Average Monthly Cost for Students in Sydney: AUD 1,500 – 2,000
Expats usually move to Sydney for work opportunities. Their living costs depend on lifestyle, family size, and whether accommodation is employer-provided.
- One-bedroom apartment in city centre: AUD 2,500 – 3,500 per month
- Outside city centre: AUD 1,800 – 2,500 per month
Housing is the single biggest expense for expats.
- Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage: AUD 200 – 300 per month
- Internet: AUD 60 – 80 per month
- Groceries for one person: AUD 400 – 600 per month
- Dining out: AUD 80 – 120 for two people at a mid-range restaurant
- Monthly public transport pass: AUD 200 – 250
- Car ownership (fuel, insurance, parking): AUD 400 – 600 per month
Average Monthly Cost for Expats in Sydney: AUD 3,500 – 5,000
Families need to account for larger housing, school fees, healthcare, and childcare expenses.
- 2-3 bedroom apartment: AUD 3,000 – 5,000 per month depending on location
- Family groceries: AUD 800 – 1,200 per month
- Public schools: Free (minimal costs for uniforms, books)
- Private schools: AUD 15,000 – 30,000 per year
- International schools: AUD 25,000 – 40,000 per year
- Private health insurance: AUD 300 – 600 per month
- Childcare: AUD 120 – 160 per day
Average Monthly Cost for Families in Sydney: AUD 6,000 – 9,000
When people compare the Cost of Living in Sydney with the Cost of Living in Melbourne, Melbourne often comes out as slightly cheaper.
- Rent: Sydney is 10–20% more expensive.
- Transport: Costs are fairly similar.
- Food: Groceries and dining out cost almost the same.
- Lifestyle: Melbourne has a lower overall living expense, but Sydney offers higher salaries on average.
So, while Sydney is more expensive, many expats choose it due to greater career opportunities and lifestyle perks.
Here’s a quick comparison of Sydney with other major Australian cities:
- Sydney: Most expensive, especially in housing.
- Melbourne: Slightly cheaper housing, with a thriving cultural scene.
- Brisbane: 20–30% cheaper than Sydney, popular among families.
- Adelaide & Perth: More affordable cities with lower rent and utilities.
This shows that while Sydney tops the list in terms of costs, it also provides unmatched opportunities and amenities, making it worth considering.
- Share Accommodation – Renting with flatmates reduces costs significantly.
- Cook at Home – Eating out regularly can burn through your budget.
- Use Public Transport – Owning a car is expensive due to fuel and parking fees.
- Explore Free Activities – Sydney offers plenty of free attractions like beaches, parks, and museums.
- Set a Budget – Tracking expenses helps in avoiding overspending.
The Cost of Living in Sydney can be high, but it depends on your lifestyle, family size, and spending habits. Students should expect AUD 1,500 – 2,000 monthly, expats around AUD 3,500 – 5,000, and families AUD 6,000 – 9,000. Compared to the Cost of Living in Melbourne and other cities, Sydney is more expensive, especially for housing. However, the career opportunities, quality education, and unmatched lifestyle often justify the expense.
If you’re considering moving to Australia, weigh the Cost of Living in Australia carefully and plan your finances accordingly. With smart budgeting and the right choices, living in Sydney can be both affordable and rewarding.