Cost of Living in Cairns
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£1,881
Average cost per month
Distribution of Expenses
Cost of living breakdown for Cairns
You can expect to spend around £1,881 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.
Housing
Standard of Living
Food & Drink
Cairns average costs for food and drink.
Salary & Services
Cairns average salaries and services.
Average living costs in Australia
| Item | Average price | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | £1,056.60 | £928.39 - £1,167.12 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | £929.45 | £785.15 - £1,076.93 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | £1,725.92 | £1,326.28 - £2,122.04 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | £1,485.42 | £1,326.28 - £1,591.52 |
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of living in Cairns depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs £825 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £2,907. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £1,057 on average.
Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Cairns costs £3. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £12.
The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Cairns is currently £3,350.
Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Cairns costs approximately £12, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £64.
The estimated monthly cost of living in Cairns for a single person is £825, excluding rent.
For a family of four living in Cairns, the estimated monthly costs are £2,907, not including rent.
Rent prices in Cairns depend on the area. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is £1,057, compared to £929 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £1,726 in the centre and £1,485 in suburban areas.
Basic utilities in Cairns (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £124 per month. Internet access typically adds another £41.