Introduction

Many international students often plan for tuition fees in Australia but overlook living expenses. The irony is that living expenses in Australia require a good understanding so that you can budget your finances better. The cost of living in Australia comprises various expenses such as rent, food, utilities, transportation, entertainment, etc.

Now, if you are asking yourself, "Is Australia expensive to live in?" The answer is both yes and no. Yes, because a superior quality education does not come at an economical cost, and no as you can take advantage of various money-saving tips mentioned in this blog.

Why Study in Australia?

World-ranked universities that provide high-quality education along with real-world skills and a relaxed lifestyle are some of the reasons for the popularity of Australia among international students. Let's see the benefit of studying in the land down under:

1. Top-Ranked Universities: Six Australian Universities are ranked in the top 50 in QS World University Rankings 2025. Australian universities provide globally recognized qualifications and real-world skills to international students.

2. Work-Integrated Learning: Rather than just remembering concepts, you will get the opportunity to apply what you have learned through internships, fieldwork, and clinical placements.

3. Friendly Environment: Australia is known for its friendly and welcoming environment where you can enjoy the same rights as natives.

4. Cultural Diversity: With students from over 190 countries, Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world where you will expand your horizons.

Cost of Living in Australia

After tuition fees, the biggest expense an international student has to incur is living costs. The living expenses in Australia for international students include various expenses as mentioned below:

1. Accommodation Costs

The major part of your living expenses in Australia will go into accommodation. The accommodation cost depends on whether you opt for on-campus or off-campus accommodation. On-campus is simply living within the university's campus, while off-campus accommodations are of different types, such as homestay, shared accommodation, apartment, and private rental. The average cost of on-campus living can range from AUD 400 to 2500 per month, while off-campus accommodation can be between AUD 640 and 2800 per month.

2. Food and Grocery Expenses

The next living expense in Australia is food. It is to be noted that cooking at home is much more affordable than eating at a restaurant. The best thing in the country is that you can easily find all the required groceries in the nearby market. The average cost of groceries in Australia can range from AUD 350 to 450 per month.

3. Transportation Costs

While studying in Australia, you will experience that it's very easy to travel from one place to another with the help of public transportation. You can use bicycles and can even borrow bikes for a short distance. You'll travel more if you live off-campus than on campus. The public transportation costs in Australia can be between AUD 120 and 200 per month, while a one-way ticket can cost AUD 5.

4. Utilities

Utilities include expenses like water, electricity, heating, internet, and mobile plan. If you are living on campus, the utility bill will be included in your rent. On the other hand, if you are living off-campus, you will have to pay for utilities separately. You are likely to spend an average of AUD 80 to 350 per month on utilities while living off-campus.

5. Healthcare and Insurance

To study in Australia, you must have health insurance known as OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). An OSHC covers medical services such as doctor's visits, hospitalization, surgery, and prescription medication. A simple OSHC policy can cost you AUD 450 to 600 per year.

6. Entertainment and Miscellaneous Expenses

Apart from the above-mentioned expenses, many other expenditures will take place while you are studying in Australia. These expenditures include movies, night-out, and other social activities. Australia has over 10000 beaches, abundant wildlife, and many tourist places to visit, and when you are there to study, it's the best time to explore this beautiful country. Overall, you would be spending an average of AUD 100 – 130 per month.

Total Cost of living in Australia

Now it's time to add all the expenses and see what are the living expenses in Australia for one person. The total cost of living in Australia for a single international student comes to AUD 2500 per month or AUD 30000 per year. This is not a fixed amount and can change depending on where you live and your spending habits.

Budgeting Tips for International Students in Australia

Now don't be scared by looking at such big numbers. There are many tips that you can use to reduce your living expenses in Australia. Here are some of the best budgeting tips in Australia:

1. Choose affordable accommodation: Rent is one of the biggest living expenses in Australia. Try to find the most economical place to live. It can be on-campus or off-campus.

2. Use Public Transportation: Another best way to save money is by using public transportation such as bicycles and bikes.

3. Take Advantage of Student Discounts: By using a student ID card, you can take advantage of student discounts on entertainment, dining, travel, and shopping.

4. Work Part-Time: In Australia, you can work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during classes and full-time during holidays. You can pursue part-time jobs such as cashier, bartender, campus ambassador, and delivery driver and earn a good amount to pay for living expenses in Australia.

5. Shop Second hand: Rather than buying new books, you can ask seniors if they have old books. You can also read books online for free instead of purchasing hard copies.

Conclusion

After reading this blog, you must have gained good knowledge about the type of living expenses in Australia and cost-cutting tips. Now, you are all set to study your dream program in Australia without worrying about the huge cost of living. Still, planning all the finances on your own can be hectic and frustrating. The good thing is that you can get help from a study abroad expert for planning your cost of living in Australia. Connect now with a Canam expert to plan your finances in Australia.