Cost of Living in Melbourne

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As one of Australia’s economic hubs, the cost of living in Melbourne can be high. It’s the country’s second most expensive city, outdone only by Sydney, the capital. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money while still experiencing all the city has to offer.

Cost of accommodation in Melbourne

The most considerable outlay for expats in Melbourne will be the cost of accommodation. Rental prices near the city centre can be exceptionally high. As with most cities, the further outside the city you live, the more money you can save – but there are still a few hotspots with high prices even an hour or more outside of Melbourne’s metropolitan area.

Best and Worst Areas and Suburbs in Melbourne
Renting Expat Accommodation in Melbourne

Cost of transport in Melbourne

To get around, expats 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-dwellers to avoid owning a car altogether. Budget for maintenance, fuel, and insurance if you do opt for a personal vehicle.

Getting Around in Melbourne

Cost of groceries in Melbourne

Grocery prices in Melbourne are generally in line with Australia’s average pricing. If you want great fresh produce, a lively atmosphere and lower prices, visiting the city’s 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 what the local merchants have on offer.

Cost of entertainment and eating out 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. Restaurants offering fantastic food for little more than the cost of a fast-food meal are common. Locals are proud of the city’s ‘cheap eats’ and are usually more than happy to provide recommendations.

As with eating out, Melbourne offers a diverse range of entertainment options to suit different budgets. For those who enjoy live entertainment, the city is well known for its vibrant arts scene, including music, theatre, and art exhibitions, some of which are free or can be enjoyed at a low cost. Many of the city’s famous parks, beaches, and gardens are free to explore and are popular for their stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

The cost of movie tickets, sporting events, and other forms of entertainment is typically in line with other major Australian cities. Melbourne is also known for its nightlife, with a wide range of pubs, bars, and clubs catering to all budgets.

Lifestyle in Melbourne

Cost of education in Melbourne

If you have children, the cost of education in Melbourne is a key consideration. Public schools in Melbourne are largely free for Australian citizens and permanent residents, although temporary residents may have to pay for tuition. The quality of public schools in Melbourne is generally high, making them an attractive option for many families.

There is also a range of private schools in Melbourne, including religious schools and international schools that offer various foreign curricula. Fees for these schools can vary, but tend to be high. Nevertheless, for those who value a particular style of education or wish for their children to follow a curriculum from their home country, these costs are usually worth it.

Education and Schools in Melbourne

Cost of healthcare in Melbourne

Healthcare in Melbourne, as with the rest of Australia, is primarily funded through Medicare, the public healthcare system. For those who are eligible – citizens and permanent residents – many healthcare services are free or heavily subsidised. This includes consultations with health professionals and hospital care.

However, expats not eligible for Medicare will need to rely on private health insurance, the cost of which can vary widely based on the level of coverage. It’s also worth noting that even with private insurance, there can be out-of-pocket costs for medical treatments.

In general, though, healthcare in Melbourne is of a high standard, and while it may be expensive, many expats consider it a good value for the quality of care received.

Healthcare in Melbourne