Cost of Living in Cairns
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$2,548
Average cost per month
Distribution of Expenses
Cost of living breakdown for Cairns
Living costs in Cairns can vary. You can expect to spend around $2,548 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 Cairns
| Item | Average price | Price range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | $1,431.00 | $1,257.36 - $1,580.69 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | $1,258.80 | $1,063.37 - $1,458.54 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month | $2,337.50 | $1,796.24 - $2,873.98 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month | $2,011.78 | $1,796.24 - $2,155.48 |
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of living in Cairns depends on your lifestyle. On average, a single person needs $1,117 per month without rent, while a family of four requires $3,936. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional $1,431 on average.
Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Cairns costs $4. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at $16.
The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Cairns is currently $4,537.
Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Cairns costs approximately $16, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around $86.
The estimated monthly cost of living in Cairns for a single person is $1,117, excluding rent.
For a family of four living in Cairns, the estimated monthly costs are $3,936, 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 $1,431, compared to $1,259 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is $2,338 in the centre and $2,012 in suburban areas.
Basic utilities in Cairns (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of $168 per month. Internet access typically adds another $56.