Cost of Living in Canberra

Planned "Bush Capital" with high incomes, zero traffic, and great schools; ideal for families seeking quiet stability.
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£2,264

Average cost per month

1

Distribution of Expenses

Property
64%
Groceries
13%
Eating Out
8%
Transportation
3%
Utilities
8%
Leisure
4%
Property
64%
Groceries
13%
Eating Out
8%
Transportation
3%
Utilities
8%
Leisure
4%

National museums & galleries

Planned city hidden in the bush

High income; peaceful suburban style

Cost of living breakdown for Canberra

You can expect to spend around £2,264 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.

Housing

£1,346Average rent per month
£8,002Price per m² (city centre)
£5,093Price per m² (outside centre)
Housing

Standard of Living

Cost of living index57
Quality of life index89
Safety index78
Standard of Living

Food & Drink

Canberra average costs for food and drink.

£280Weekly groceries/person
£171Dining out average cost/person
£3Regular coffee
Food & Drink

Salary & Services

Canberra average salaries and services.

£3,097Average Monthly Net Salary
£70Transport
Healthcare69
Salary & Services

Average living costs in Australia

ItemAverage pricePrice range
1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£1,345.72£1,061.02 - £1,909.83
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£1,111.21£901.86 - £1,591.52
3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£2,305.82£1,708.24 - £5,198.98
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£1,483.01£1,379.32 - £1,591.52

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Frequently asked questions

The cost of living in Canberra depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs £918 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £3,254. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £1,346 on average.

Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Canberra costs £2. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £70.

The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Canberra is currently £3,097.

Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Canberra costs approximately £13, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £68.

The estimated monthly cost of living in Canberra for a single person is £918, excluding rent.

For a family of four living in Canberra, the estimated monthly costs are £3,254, not including rent.

Rent prices in Canberra depend on the area. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is £1,346, compared to £1,111 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £2,306 in the centre and £1,483 in suburban areas.

Basic utilities in Canberra (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £140 per month. Internet access typically adds another £42.