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Wollongong, a coastal city in New South Wales, Australia, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant community, and strong educational institutions like the University of Wollongong. But, before relocating to Wollongong, as an expat student, you should be aware of the average cost of living in Wollongong to ensure they can budget appropriately and live comfortably there.
Budgeting effectively is essential for a comfortable stay for students planning to live in Wollongong. Curious about the average expenses in this vibrant coastal city? Read on for key insights and detailed information on the cost of living in Wollongong. Let’s dive in!
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Cost of Living in Wollongong
The average cost of living in Wollongong for international students is AUD 2195 per month with rent, according to living cost data. Although the cost of living in Wollongong may be lower than in some other cities in Australia, you can still enjoy a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and access to various cultural and recreational opportunities.
Below, we have provided a general overview of the typical cost of living in Wollongong for international expats across different categories. Which includes utility bills, house rent, travel passes, personal expenses, food and grocery expenses. Below, we provide an overview of the average cost of living in Wollongong across various categories for those considering living in this vibrant city. Please have a look:
Cost of Housing in Wollongong
The cost of housing in Wollongong for a single person is around AUD 1,546 per month. Various accommodation options are available for expats according to their budget and lifestyle. Before relocating to Wollongong, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and comparison of apartment rental prices across different areas to ensure they align with your requirements and financial plan.
For your convenience, we have gathered average housing cost information for various apartments located both within and outside the city center. Please review this data to determine the most suitable option for your needs.
| Apartment Location | Monthly Rent |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | AUD 1546 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | AUD 1036 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | AUD 2207 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | AUD 1400 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Australia: A 2023 Guide
Cost of Grocery in Wollongong
Grocery expenses are a daily necessity for students who choose to cook at home, and their food choices will determine these expenses in Wollongong. These expenses play a significant role in the overall cost of living in the Wollongong city.
It is advisable to compare prices among various stores or vendors to ensure optimal value when purchasing groceries in Wollongong. Below is a list of grocery items along with their respective costs.
| Grocery Item | Approx. Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | AUD 1.58 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | AUD 2.27 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | AUD 2.23 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | AUD 6.37 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | AUD 13.4 |
| Apples (1kg) | AUD 3.87 |
| Banana (1kg) | AUD 3.42 |
| Oranges (1kg) | AUD 1.01 |
| Tomato (1kg) | AUD 5.36 |
| Potato (1kg) | AUD 3.12 |
| Onion (1kg) | AUD 2.33 |
| Water (1 liter bottle) | AUD 0.68 |
Cost of Utilities in Wollongong
For a single person in Wollongong, the basic utility costs are around AUD 127 per month. This is a relatively modest expense, especially considering the overall cost of living in Wollongong city. These utility bills typically cover heating, electricity, gas, a mobile phone plan, and internet service. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the typical utility costs for international students living in Wollongong:
| Utility Type | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| Basic Utility for 40m2 Apartment (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | AUD 127 |
| Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data) | AUD 55 |
Cost of Transportation in Wollongong
Wollongong boasts a highly convenient and affordable transportation system, making it easy for residents to travel around the city. The city offers a variety of local transport options, including trains, buses, and ferries.
The monthly cost for a transportation pass is approximately AUD 76.9, which is a significant component of the overall cost of living in Wollongong. Here is an overview of the various modes of transportation and their monthly costs:
| Mode of Transport | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| One-way Ticket(Local Transport) | AUD 3.80 |
| Monthly Pass(Regular Price) | AUD 72.15 |
| Taxi Start(Normal Tariff) | AUD 6.00 |
| Taxi 1km(Normal Tariff) | AUD 2.60 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting(Normal Tariff) | AUD 62.50 |
| 1-litre Gasoline | AUD 1.80 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Taiwan: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Average Tuition Fees in Wollongong
When considering the cost of living in Wollongong, international students must also factor in their university tuition fees. Before relocating, it’s crucial for students to evaluate whether they can afford the average tuition fees of universities in Wollongong.
To aid in this assessment, we’ve provided a table below outlining the average tuition fees at some of Wollongong’s universities:
| University Name | Average Tuition Fees (per year) |
| University of Wollongong | AUD 19,230 – AUD 92,870 |
| Sydney Business School, University of Wollongong | AUD 15,300 – AUD 44,900 |
| Illawarra Institute | AUD 7,990 – AUD 11,940 |
| University of Wollongong College | AUD 28,260 – AUD 35,090 |
Cost of Living Comparison: Wollongong vs Other Cities
When comparing the cost of living in Wollongong to other Australian cities, several factors should be considered. Wollongong is well-known for its affordable housing and transportation costs, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Understanding how the cost of living in Wollongong measures up against other cities is essential for making informed decisions about moving or long-term stays. To provide a clear picture of how living expenses in Wollongong compare to major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Canada, Alberta, and Regina we have gathered relevant data. Here’s a detailed comparison for better clarity:
| Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living | Comparison with Cost of Living in Wollongong |
| Cost of Living in Sydney | AUD 4206 (including rent) | Higher than Wollongong |
| Cost of Living in Newcastle | AUD 2242 (including rent) | Higher than Wollongong |
| Cost of Living in Australia | AUD 3519 (including rent) | Higher than Wollongong |
Things to Consider Before Moving to Wollongong
Now that you have understood the cost of living in Wollongong in various categories in detail. Besides finalizing the budget for the cost of living in Wollongong, there are plenty of options for expats to know. Here are some essential things expat students should consider before moving to Wollongong for their higher studies:
Low Crime Rate in Wollongong
Wollongong, Australia, boasts the highest average income at approximately AUD 6,072 per month and enjoys a low unemployment rate, contributing to its reputation as a city with low crime rates and high livability, recognized globally.
Amazing Weather in Wollongong
Wollongong experiences a climate characterized by dry summers and wet winters, showcasing distinct seasonal contrasts. The city’s hottest month is February, with temperatures reaching around 31.6°C, while July marks the coldest month with temperatures averaging about 7.9°C. Rainfall in Wollongong predominantly occurs between May and September, adding a refreshing touch to its seasonal diversity.
Health Insurance is Required
Living in Wollongong means you’ll need to plan for healthcare costs, which can be high if you have to pay out of pocket. Many people here get private health insurance to cover these expenses, ensuring they’re fully protected medically as part of their living expenses in Wollongong.
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FAQs
Answer: The average cost of living in Wollongong is around AUD 2195 a month including rental costs. This means the cost of living for a student is decent compared to other cities in Australia.
Answer: The cost of living in Wollongong is around AUD 2195 with rent, while the cost of living in Melbourne is around AUD 3615 with rent. This shows that Wollongong is cheaper than Melbourne, because
Answer: Wollongong is more affordable than Canberra due to its lower cost of living, approximately AUD 2,195 including rent, compared to the cost of living in Canberra which is around AUD 3,996 including rent.
Answer: Yes, Wollongong is cheaper than Sydney, because the cost of living in Wollongong is around AUD 2195 with rent, while the cost of living in Sydney is around AUD 4206 with rent.
So, this was all about the cost of living in Wollongong. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.
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