1. What is the average cost of living in Australia for international students in 2025?

International students spend between AUD 1,400 to 2,500 per month depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation.

2. Is it expensive to study and live in Australia?

Yes, Australia is relatively expensive, but with part-time jobs and smart budgeting, students can manage their living costs.

3. Which Australian city is the cheapest for international students?

Hobart and Adelaide are among the most affordable cities, with lower rents and overall living expenses than Sydney or Melbourne.

4. How much is monthly rent for international students in Australia?

Rent typically ranges from AUD 700 to 1,600 per month depending on city and whether you share or live solo.

5. What are food costs like for students in Australia?

Groceries cost around AUD 300 to 600 monthly, but this varies based on whether students cook or eat out frequently.

6. Are public transport costs high in Australia for students?

Not really. With student discounts, public transport can cost around AUD 80 to 160 monthly.

7. Can international students work while studying in Australia?

Yes, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and full-time during holidays as per 2025 visa rules.

8. How much can I earn through part-time jobs in Australia as a student?

You can earn approximately AUD 1,200 to 1,500 per month working part-time, depending on the job and hours.

9. How does the cost of living in Australia compare to the US or UK?

Australia is often cheaper than the US but slightly higher than Canada or Germany in monthly living expenses.

10. Is internet and mobile service costly for international students in Australia?

Mobile plans cost AUD 30–60, while WiFi (shared) is around AUD 70–100 monthly.

11. Are scholarships available to cover living expenses in Australia?

Yes, many universities offer scholarships that may include living stipends. Students should check with their institutions directly.

12. Can I reduce my cost of living in Australia as a student?

Absolutely. Sharing accommodation, cooking meals, using student discounts, and budgeting apps can all help cut costs.

13. What’s included in student accommodation in Australia?

University housing often includes utilities and internet, but private rentals might not, so costs can vary.

14. Why are living costs rising in Australia in 2025?

Inflation and rising demand in the rental market are the key drivers of cost increases across major student cities.

Cost of Living in Australia for Students (2025 Guide)

Living in Australia in 2025 will cost you about AUD 1,400 to 2,500 a month. Rent’s the biggest chunk. Sydney’s pricey, but places like Adelaide and Hobart are way more manageable. Get a part-time job, use student discounts, and you’ll be just fine.

Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

Thinking about studying in Australia? You are not just choosing a university, you are picking a whole new lifestyle. Honestly, it can get a bit overwhelming when you are dealing with new cities, new people, and yeah, new bills. Rent, groceries, transport—it all adds up quickly if you are not careful. But don’t stress. This guide breaks it all down in a way that makes sense, with real numbers and straight-up advice based on how students actually live.

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How much does it cost to live in Australia as an international student?

Let’s not sugarcoat it. Australia ain’t cheap, especially if you’re coming from a country where the Australian dollar feels heavy. On average, international students in Australia are spending around AUD 1,400 to 2,500 every month in 2025. That covers rent, food, your phone, and even the occasional Friday night out.

Here’s what most students are spending each month:

Rent: AUD 600 to 1,600 depending on where you stay and if you’ve got housemates
Groceries and food: AUD 300 to 600 cheaper if you cook, way higher if you eat out all the time
Transport: AUD 100 to 200, public transport is solid in most cities
Utilities and WiFi: AUD 150 to 250, split it with housemates, and it’s not bad
Phone plan: Around AUD 30 to 60
Fun stuff and other costs: AUD 100 to 300, think streaming, gym, takeaway, etc.

So yeah, your yearly spend? Somewhere between AUD 18,000 to 30,000. It’s a lot, but it’s manageable if you plan right.

Read about: Cost of Living in Sydney vs. Brisbane: Which is Cheaper?

Cost Breakdown Table for International Students (Monthly Estimate)

Expense Category	Cost Range (AUD/month)
Rent	600 – 1,600
Food & Groceries	300 – 600
Transport	100 – 200
Utilities & WiFi	150 – 250
Phone Plan	30 – 60
Entertainment/Others	100 – 300
Total	1,400 – 2,500

Which Australian city is the most affordable for international students?

Each city’s got its own vibe and price tag. Sydney? Amazing but crazy expensive. Hobart? Way more chill and way cheaper. You gotta pick a city that fits your lifestyle and budget. Here’s what you’re looking at monthly:

City	Average Monthly Spend (AUD)
Sydney	2,000 to 2,500
Melbourne	1,800 to 2,400
Brisbane	1,500 to 2,000
Adelaide	1,300 to 1,800
Perth	1,400 to 1,900
Hobart	1,200 to 1,700

Let’s be honest, if you’re trying to save, go with Adelaide or Hobart. They’re way more affordable and still have solid unis.

How much is rent in Australia for international students?

Yep, rent eats up a huge chunk of your budget. But you’ve got options. If you’re cool with sharing, you can save a ton. Living close to campus is super convenient, but you’ll pay for it. Head a little farther out, and your wallet will thank you.

Monthly rent ideas:

Sharing in the city: AUD 700 to 1,200
Solo studio: AUD 1,200 to 1,800 (if you’re feeling fancy)
On-campus dorms: AUD 900 to 2,000
Homestay with meals: AUD 1,000 to 1,400 (also comes with a side of home-cooked love)

How much do international students spend on food in Australia?

Look, cooking your meals is the real money-saver here. Sure, ordering in is tempting after a long day of classes, but it adds up. Quick grocery runs and some basic recipes will stretch your dollars.

Food costs:

Groceries weekly: AUD 70 to 150
Eating out (lunch): AUD 10 to 20
Restaurant dinner: AUD 25 to 50
Uber Eats or takeaway: AUD 10 to 15

Keep it balanced. Treat yourself now and then, but try not to make Macca’s your second home.

What are the transportation costs for students in Australia?

Most big cities have decent public transport and student discounts. Get yourself a student card and you’ll save a chunk. If you’re close enough, walking or biking is not just free, it’s good for your mental health too.

Transport cost ballpark:

Student transport pass: AUD 80 to 160
Biking or walking: Free. And no traffic!

How much do international students spend on utilities and the internet?

Correct. But if you split it with your flatmates, it’s doable. Most universities also have free WiFi across campus.

Average monthly costs:

Internet (split): AUD 70 to 100
Mobile plan with data: AUD 30 to 60

Shop around, there are plenty of deals from providers like Optus, Vodafone, and Telstra.

Can international students work part-time in Australia?

Totally. As of 2025, student visa rules let you work 48 hours per fortnight during the semester and full-time on holidays. That means you can earn a decent side income while keeping your grades up.

Minimum wage: AUD 23.23/hour
Weekly income at 15 hours: AUD 1,200 to 1,500/month (give or take)

Popular student jobs:

Barista or waiter
Retail assistant
Uni library or admin gigs
Food delivery

Is Australia more expensive than other countries for students?

It’s up there, but you get what you pay for. Clean cities, great healthcare, beaches, and chill vibes. Compared to the US or UK, Australia offers more work rights and easier access to permanent residency.

Why is the cost of living rising in Australia?

Two words: inflation and demand. Post-pandemic, rental markets are tighter, grocery prices are higher, and everyone’s just trying to keep up. It’s rough, but with good planning, you can still make it work.

What’s going up:

Rent (some suburbs saw a 10%+ hike)
Utility bills
Grocery prices

It sucks, but you’re not alone. Most students are adjusting their budgets too.

How can international students reduce their living expenses in Australia?

If you’re smart about it, yes. Pick the right city, find roommates, meal prep, work a part-time gig, and make use of every student discount you can. You’ll make it through and still have fun.

Quick budget tips:

Track your spending in the first 3 months
Use apps to split bills with housemates
Don’t impulse spend during grocery runs
Say yes to uni freebies — events, food, workshops

Conclusion

At the end of the day, yes—studying in Australia comes with a price tag, but what you get in return is way more than just a degree. You’re investing in a lifestyle, in new friendships, in real-world experience that employers care about. Whether you’re living in a bustling city like Sydney or a quieter place like Hobart, how you manage your money will shape your whole experience.

So don’t let the numbers scare you. Thousands of international students make it work every year. Budget smartly, explore scholarship options, take on part-time jobs, and embrace every part of the journey. Australia isn’t just a place to study—it’s a place to grow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average cost of living in Australia for international students in 2025?
International students spend between AUD 1,400 to 2,500 per month depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation.
2. Is it expensive to study and live in Australia?
Yes, Australia is relatively expensive, but with part-time jobs and smart budgeting, students can manage their living costs.
3. Which Australian city is the cheapest for international students?
Hobart and Adelaide are among the most affordable cities, with lower rents and overall living expenses than Sydney or Melbourne.
4. How much is monthly rent for international students in Australia?
Rent typically ranges from AUD 700 to 1,600 per month depending on city and whether you share or live solo.
5. What are food costs like for students in Australia?
Groceries cost around AUD 300 to 600 monthly, but this varies based on whether students cook or eat out frequently.
6. Are public transport costs high in Australia for students?
Not really. With student discounts, public transport can cost around AUD 80 to 160 monthly.
7. Can international students work while studying in Australia?
Yes, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and full-time during holidays as per 2025 visa rules.
8. How much can I earn through part-time jobs in Australia as a student?
You can earn approximately AUD 1,200 to 1,500 per month working part-time, depending on the job and hours.
9. How does the cost of living in Australia compare to the US or UK?
Australia is often cheaper than the US but slightly higher than Canada or Germany in monthly living expenses.
10. Is internet and mobile service costly for international students in Australia?
Mobile plans cost AUD 30–60, while WiFi (shared) is around AUD 70–100 monthly.
11. Are scholarships available to cover living expenses in Australia?
Yes, many universities offer scholarships that may include living stipends. Students should check with their institutions directly.
12. Can I reduce my cost of living in Australia as a student?
Absolutely. Sharing accommodation, cooking meals, using student discounts, and budgeting apps can all help cut costs.
13. What’s included in student accommodation in Australia?
University housing often includes utilities and internet, but private rentals might not, so costs can vary.
14. Why are living costs rising in Australia in 2025?
Inflation and rising demand in the rental market are the key drivers of cost increases across major student cities.

Cost of Living in Australia for International Students (2025 Guide)