- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Melbourne Guide (PDF)
Melbourne may be the second most expensive city in Australia after Sydney, but for expats who need to stick to a budget and a low cost of living, there are plenty of ways to save money in the city, particularly when it comes to life’s 'non-essentials'.
Melbourne is ranked as the world's 99th most expensive city out of the 209 cities surveyed for Mercer's 2020 Cost of Living Survey. Though ranked below Sydney, it's more expensive than Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane and Canberra.
Cost of accommodation in Melbourne
The biggest outlay for expats in Melbourne will be the cost of accommodation. Rental prices near the city centre can be particularly high. As with most cities, the further outside of the city one lives, the more money one can save – but there are nonetheless some hotspots with high prices even an hour or more outside of Melbourne's main centre of activity.
Cost of public transport in Melbourne
To get around, most people in Melbourne find public transport to be the cheapest and most convenient option. To avoid traffic jams, high parking fees and fluctuating fuel prices, it’s not uncommon for city-dwelling expats to avoid owning a car altogether.
Cost of food in Melbourne
While it's home to a plethora of fine-dining restaurants, Melbourne also has an assortment of great places to eat out without breaking the bank. In the city centre and the suburbs, diners will find restaurants where they can eat fantastic food for little more than the cost of a fast-food meal. Locals are proud of the city's 'cheap eats' and will probably be more than happy to provide recommendations.
Grocery prices in Melbourne are largely in line with Australia’s average pricing. For expats who want great fresh produce, a lively atmosphere and lower prices, visiting the markets will be the best option. Fresh food markets can be found in the city centre and suburbs all around Melbourne, and it's usually well worth taking the time to explore these bustling food centres.
Cost of living in Melbourne chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for August 2020.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
AUD 1,900 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
AUD 1,300 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
AUD 3,300 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
AUD 2,200 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
AUD 4.95 |
Milk (1 litre) |
AUD 1.50 |
Rice (1kg) |
AUD 2.90 |
Loaf of white bread |
AUD 3 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
AUD 11 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
AUD 30 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
AUD 12 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
AUD 3.10 |
Cappuccino |
AUD 4.50 |
Bottle of local beer |
AUD 10 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
AUD 80 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
AUD 0.20 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
AUD 70 |
Basic utilities (per month for small apartment) |
AUD 200 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
AUD 1.75 |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
AUD 4.50 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
AUD 1.50 |
Further reading
►Check out our answers to some of the most Frequently Asked Questions about Melbourne
Are you an expat living in Melbourne?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Melbourne. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
With 86 million customer relationships in over 200 countries, Cigna Global has unrivalled experience in dealing with varied and unique medical situations and delivering high standards of service wherever you live in the world.
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.