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Planning to study in Australia? Finding the right place to live is key to a great experience. As an international student, you’ll find a mix of vibrant cities and more relaxed regional areas, each with a different cost of living. Annually, living expenses can range from AUD USD 20,000 to USD 30,000. Top cities like Melbourne and Sydney offer dynamic, multicultural experiences but come with a higher price tag. For a more affordable lifestyle, consider Adelaide or Perth, which provide an excellent quality of life without the hefty costs. Researching these top locations will help you find the perfect fit for your academic and personal journey in 2025-26.
This Blog Includes:
Sydney
Sydney, renowned for its iconic harbor and vibrant urban life, is a premier destination for international students. Its key benefits include a robust job market, offering exceptional professional opportunities as Australia’s business capital, and a rich, multicultural environment with endless cultural and entertainment options. However, students must be prepared for a higher cost of living. Annual expenses can range from AUD 25,000 to over 40,000, with accommodation being the largest single cost. To manage this, students should prioritize finding affordable housing in suburbs well-connected by Sydney’s extensive public transport network and take advantage of student discounts. Despite the financial challenge, Sydney’s world-class universities and unmatched lifestyle provide an enriching and rewarding study experience.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 25,000 – 40,000+ (higher end of the Australian range) |
| Benefits | Strong job market, world-class universities, diverse culture, iconic landmarks, vibrant entertainment and food scene. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is the highest cost (e.g., shared rental from AUD 1,900/month). Groceries, transport, and utilities are also significant. |
| Part-time Work | Allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study and unlimited during breaks. Common jobs are in retail and hospitality, with a high minimum wage. |
| Important Tips | Use public transport with an Opal card, seek out student discounts, and budget carefully to manage high costs. |
Brisbane
Brisbane is a highly attractive destination for international students, offering a compelling blend of affordability and a high-quality lifestyle. The city’s main benefit is its more relaxed and budget-friendly atmosphere compared to Sydney and Melbourne, allowing students to enjoy a vibrant city experience without the high costs. The annual living cost for a student in Brisbane typically ranges from AUD 20,000 to 30,000, with cheaper accommodation and public transport thanks to student concessions. Another major draw is its subtropical climate, which supports a fantastic outdoor lifestyle, from exploring the City Botanic Gardens to visiting nearby world-famous beaches like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
Brisbane is also a hub for a diverse range of industries, providing ample part-time job opportunities and a promising graduate job market. Important points for students include using a Go Card for discounted travel on buses, trains, and ferries, and taking advantage of the city’s numerous free or low-cost activities to save money while still experiencing everything Brisbane has to offer.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 20,000 – 30,000 (more affordable than Sydney/Melbourne) |
| Benefits | Relaxed, outdoor lifestyle, subtropical climate, strong job market, and proximity to natural attractions. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is cheaper than other major cities (e.g., a shared room in a private rental from AUD 200/week). |
| Important Tips | Get a student ‘Go Card’ for discounted public transport and explore free city activities like South Bank Parklands and the CityHopper ferry. |
Also Read: Top 7 MOI Accepted Universities in Australia
Melbourne
Melbourne, consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities, is a cultural and academic powerhouse for international students. Its core benefits lie in its multicultural environment and reputation as Australia’s “cultural capital,” offering a vibrant mix of arts, music, and food scenes that enrich the student experience. The city is also home to several of Australia’s top-tier universities, providing a diverse range of high-quality educational programs. However, the cost of living in Melbourne is relatively high, though generally slightly more affordable than Sydney. The annual living cost for an international student can range from AUD 20,000 to 35,000, with accommodation being a major factor. Rent for a shared room can be as low as AUD 800 a month in some suburbs but can go much higher closer to the city center.
To manage expenses, students rely on the city’s extensive tram, train, and bus network, often using a Myki card, although international students are typically not eligible for concession fares. Despite the cost, the city’s dynamic atmosphere, excellent universities, and a plethora of part-time job opportunities in hospitality and retail make it a highly desirable place to study and live.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 20,000 – 35,000 (more affordable than Sydney) |
| Benefits | World-class universities, vibrant arts and culture scene, diverse food, and a strong sense of community. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is the highest cost (shared room from AUD 800/month). |
| Important Tips | Utilize the extensive public transport system with a Myki card and take advantage of the CBD’s Free Tram Zone. |
Adelaide
Adelaide is a fantastic choice for international students seeking a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle without compromising on quality education. The city’s primary benefit is its low cost of living, with annual expenses for a student ranging from AUD 18,000 to 30,000, significantly less than in Sydney or Melbourne. Rent is particularly manageable, with shared accommodation options available for as little as USD 150 per week. This affordability allows students to better manage their finances and focus on their studies.
Adelaide also offers a high quality of life with a safe, welcoming, and friendly community. Its compact, well-planned layout makes it easy to get around, and full-time international students are eligible for a concession metroCARD, providing discounted travel on buses, trains, and trams. There are even free public transport options like the City Connector bus and a free tram zone within the CBD. For those looking for a part-time job, Adelaide has a growing economy, particularly in health, technology, and renewable energy, providing opportunities to gain valuable work experience. Overall, Adelaide provides an excellent balance of academic excellence, career opportunities, and a relaxed, budget-friendly lifestyle.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 18,000 – 30,000 (one of Australia’s most affordable capitals) |
| Benefits | Affordable living, high quality of life, friendly community, excellent public transport, and a Mediterranean climate. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is the most affordable among major cities. Groceries and utilities are also comparatively cheaper. |
| Important Tips | Take advantage of the student concession metroCARD for travel and explore the city’s free transport zones. The city’s universities are recognized as a top 2% global ranking. |
Also Read: Requirements for Student Visa Australia
Perth
Perth is an increasingly popular destination for international students, offering a vibrant lifestyle and strong job prospects with a more relaxed pace than the eastern states. Its key benefit is the combination of a sunny climate and a high standard of living at a lower cost than Sydney or Melbourne. The annual living cost for a student is estimated to be between AUD 19,000 and 30,000. Rent is particularly affordable, with options like shared rooms starting from as low as AUD 200 per week.
Perth is a major hub for the resources and energy sectors, providing excellent opportunities for students in engineering, science, and technology. Moreover, international students are eligible for a Tertiary SmartRider card, which provides a 40% discount on public transport, making it an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. The Central Area Transit (CAT) buses also offer free services within key city zones. With a growing economy and a welcoming community, Perth offers a unique and rewarding study experience, combining professional opportunities with an exceptional outdoor lifestyle.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 19,000 – 30,000 (more affordable than east coast capitals) |
| Benefits | Sunny climate, high quality of life, strong job market in engineering and resources, and a lower cost of living. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is more affordable compared to other major cities (shared rooms from AUD 200/week). |
| Important Tips | Take advantage of the Tertiary SmartRider for discounted transport and the free CAT bus services within the city. The city offers a unique lifestyle with beautiful beaches and parks. |
Lismore
Lismore, located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, offers international students a unique and affordable study experience away from the bustling major cities. The primary benefit of choosing Lismore is its significantly lower cost of living. Annual expenses for a student can be as low as AUD 18,000, with a major saving on accommodation, where shared rentals can start from as little as USD 150 per week. This affordability allows students to immerse themselves in a high-quality education without the financial stress often associated with larger cities.
Lismore is home to Southern Cross University, which has a strong focus on community, research, and hands-on learning, particularly in areas like health, environmental sciences, and creative arts. The city’s smaller size and friendly community provide a supportive environment for students to thrive. Part-time job opportunities are available, particularly in the healthcare, retail, and hospitality sectors. Additionally, the region’s beautiful natural environment, including rainforests and nearby beaches, offers a fantastic lifestyle balance.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 18,000 – 30,000 (one of the most affordable options in Australia) |
| Benefits | Very low cost of living, close-knit community, focus on sustainability and research, and a fantastic outdoor lifestyle. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is very affordable. Other costs like groceries and transport are also lower than in major cities. |
| Important Tips | Take advantage of the student community and local support networks, and explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes to save on entertainment costs. |
Also Read: Looking for Private Universities in Australia?
Canberra
Canberra, Australia’s capital, offers a unique and high-quality study experience with a distinct blend of academic rigor and a relaxed, secure environment. A key benefit is its concentration of world-class educational and research institutions, including The Australian National University (ANU), which is consistently ranked among the world’s best. The city boasts Australia’s lowest unemployment rate and highest median income, providing excellent part-time work and graduate job opportunities, particularly in government, technology, and research sectors.
While living costs are generally higher than in regional areas, Canberra is more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne. Annual expenses for a student typically range from AUD 20,000 to 35,000, with a wide range of accommodation options. Students can find shared rooms for as little as USD 150 per week or opt for on-campus accommodation. All full-time students are eligible for a student concession on the public transport network, which is a major benefit for managing costs. The city’s extensive bike paths and the free CAT bus services also provide low-cost travel options. Canberra’s safe, clean, and well-planned environment, combined with its vibrant cultural scene and easy access to national parks and museums, makes it a rewarding choice for international students.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 20,000 – 35,000 (more affordable than Sydney/Melbourne) |
| Benefits | High-quality education and research, excellent job prospects, low unemployment rate, safe and clean environment. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is a key cost, with a wide range of on-campus and private rental options available. |
| Important Tips | Utilize the student concession on public transport, explore job opportunities in government and research sectors, and enjoy the city’s numerous cultural institutions and outdoor activities. |
Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand’s “coolest little capital,” offers a vibrant and unique experience for international students. A major draw is its exceptional quality of life and a strong sense of safety, consistently ranking high on global indexes for personal security and livability. The city is a hub for government, creative arts, and technology, providing excellent career opportunities and a dynamic cultural scene. While living costs are higher than in smaller New Zealand cities, Wellington is generally more affordable than major Australian counterparts like Sydney.
The annual living cost for a student can range from NZD 20,000 to 27,000, with accommodation being the largest expense. Students can save by using the efficient and discounted public transport system and exploring the city’s many free attractions, from museums and art galleries to its stunning waterfront and outdoor spaces. The combination of world-class universities, a welcoming community, and a lively urban environment makes Wellington a highly appealing study destination.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | NZD 20,000 – 27,000 (more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne) |
| Benefits | High quality of life, safe and secure, vibrant arts and culture scene, strong job market in government and tech sectors. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is the main cost, with shared flats and university dorms being popular choices. |
| Important Tips | Utilize the city’s robust public transport network for discounted travel and explore the numerous free or low-cost cultural and outdoor activities. |
Gold Coast
The Gold Coast, famous for its stunning beaches and sunny climate, offers international students a unique study environment that blends a high-quality education with a relaxed, outdoor-focused lifestyle. A significant benefit is the city’s burgeoning economy, particularly in tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and a growing tech sector, providing abundant part-time work opportunities. While generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, the Gold Coast is a popular tourist destination, which can influence costs. Annual living expenses for a student can range from AUD 19,000 to 30,000, with shared accommodation being the most budget-friendly option.
Students can save on transportation by using the integrated public transport system, including buses, trains, and the G:link light rail. The availability of student concession fares on a Translink Go Card makes getting around more manageable. The city’s focus on a healthy, active lifestyle and its proximity to both the beach and lush hinterland offer an unparalleled work-life balance for students.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 19,000 – 30,000 (more affordable than Sydney/Melbourne) |
| Benefits | Vibrant outdoor lifestyle, robust job market in tourism and hospitality, world-class beaches, and a friendly community. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is the main cost, but shared housing is a cost-effective choice. |
| Important Tips | Utilize the Translink public transport system with a Go Card for discounts, and take advantage of free outdoor activities to save on entertainment. |
Also Read: What Are the Different Types of Australian Universities
Hobart
Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, is a hidden gem for international students, offering a serene and exceptionally safe environment that’s perfect for focused study. Its main benefit is the very low cost of living, making it one of the most affordable capital cities in Australia. The annual living expenses for a student are estimated to be between AUD 18,000 and 30,000, with a significant saving on rent and other day-to-day costs compared to major mainland cities.
Hobart’s compact size and efficient public transport system, including student discounts, make getting around easy and economical. The city is known for its strong sense of community, and its stunning natural beauty—from the foothills of kunanyi/Mount Wellington to the vibrant waterfront—offers a unique balance of academic and outdoor pursuits. While the job market may not be as large as Sydney’s or Melbourne’s, opportunities exist, particularly in tourism, hospitality, and research. This combination of a high-quality, relaxed lifestyle with manageable costs makes Hobart a highly appealing and stress-free study destination.
| Category | Description |
| Annual Living Cost | AUD 18,000 – 30,000 (one of the most affordable capitals) |
| Benefits | Very safe and secure, high quality of life, accessible and scenic environment, and a supportive community. |
| Major Expenses | Accommodation is significantly cheaper than in other major cities. |
| Important Tips | Utilize public transport with a student concession card and embrace the outdoor lifestyle for low-cost entertainment. |
Also Read: How to Settle in Australia from India: A Step-by-Step Guide
FAQs
The best Australian state to live in depends on your priorities. Victoria and New South Wales offer the most job opportunities and cultural diversity in their major cities, Melbourne and Sydney. However, if affordability and a relaxed lifestyle are key, states like South Australia and Tasmania provide a fantastic quality of life at a much lower cost.
When seeking permanent residency (PR) in Australia, many people look to “regional” cities as they often have more accessible visa pathways and less competition. Adelaide and Perth are frequently cited as top choices for this, as they offer state nomination programs and a high quality of life with lower costs than Sydney or Melbourne. Other regional hubs like Canberra and Hobart also have dedicated programs to attract skilled migrants.
Sydney has the largest and most established IT job market in Australia, often referred to as “Silicon Harbour.” It is home to a high concentration of tech companies, from multinational giants like Google and Microsoft to successful Australian unicorns like Atlassian and Canva. Melbourne also has a strong and growing tech scene, particularly in fintech and health tech.
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