Cost of Living in Sydney

Iconic harbour city; offers an unmatched beach-and-city lifestyle, but is one of the world's most expensive places.
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£2,838

Average cost per month

1

Distribution of Expenses

Property
70%
Groceries
10%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
4%
Utilities
6%
Leisure
3%
Property
70%
Groceries
10%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
4%
Utilities
6%
Leisure
3%

Iconic harbor sights & upscale dining

Sun-soaked surfer paradise

Premium real estate; global business hub

Cost of living breakdown for Sydney

You can expect to spend around £2,838 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.

Housing

£1,877Average rent per month
£9,081Price per m² (city centre)
£5,759Price per m² (outside centre)
Housing

Standard of Living

Cost of living index58
Quality of life index85
Safety index72
Standard of Living

Food & Drink

Sydney average costs for food and drink.

£274Monthly groceries/person
£175Dining out average cost/person
£3Regular coffee
Food & Drink

Salary & Services

Sydney average salaries and services.

£3,182Average Monthly Net Salary
£115Transport
Healthcare74
Salary & Services

Average living costs in Australia

ItemAverage pricePrice range
1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£1,877.40£1,379.32 - £2,652.54
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£1,272.69£1,061.02 - £1,591.52
3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£3,681.73£2,970.85 - £5,305.09
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£2,202.67£1,697.63 - £2,917.80

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Frequently asked questions

The cost of living in Sydney depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs £960 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £3,403. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £1,877 on average.

Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Sydney costs £3. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £115.

The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Sydney is currently £3,182.

Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Sydney costs approximately £16, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £69.

The estimated monthly cost of living in Sydney for a single person is £960, excluding rent.

For a family of four living in Sydney, the estimated monthly costs are £3,403, not including rent.

Rent prices in Sydney depend on the area. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is £1,877, compared to £1,273 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £3,682 in the centre and £2,203 in suburban areas.

Basic utilities in Sydney (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £164 per month. Internet access typically adds another £40.