University precincts, including those near the University of Sydney and UTS, have seen rent increases of over 20% in the past year. Student accommodation costs have also risen by 3.8% to 8%.
Sydney is one of the most vibrant and multicultural cities in Australia, but it’s also among the most expensive. Whether you're a student, working professional, or expat, understanding the cost of living is crucial for budgeting.
On average, a single person spends around AUD 1,752.6 (INR 1.02L) monthly, excluding rent, while a family of four may need AUD 6,335.9 (INR 3.68L). From groceries and transport to entertainment and utilities, every expense adds quickly to this bustling city.
In this guide, you'll read more about:
Average monthly expenses for different lifestyles
Accommodation costs across suburbs and housing types
Food and grocery budgets
Transport options and costs for students and professionals
Utilities, entertainment, healthcare, and education expenses
Tips for Indian students and smart budgeting strategies
Sydney ranks among the top 7% of the most expensive cities globally, making budgeting essential for anyone planning to live here. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a family of four, understanding the average cost of living in Sydney helps you prepare financially. The monthly cost of living in Sydney varies based on lifestyle, housing choices, and spending habits.
Below is a breakdown of the cost of living in Sydney, Australia for international students, professionals, and families:
Category
Average Cost (AUD)
Average Cost (INR)
Single Person
1,142.1 AUD
INR 66 K
Family of 4
4,122.9 AUD
INR 2.39L
Overall City Average
2,640 AUD
INR 1.53L
Public Transport Pass
217.39 AUD
INR 12.6 K
Utilities (915 sq ft)
300.60 AUD
INR 17.4 K
Internet (Unlimited)
79.78 AUD
INR 4.6 K
Mobile Plan (10GB+)
37.28 AUD
INR 2.1 K
Gym Membership
101.65 AUD
INR 5.9 K
Grocery Basket (Basic)
300–500 AUD
INR 17.4K–29K
Hence, this makes Sydney one of the most expensive cities in Australia for families and international students alike.
Accommodation is one of the biggest contributors to the cost of living in Sydney, especially for international students and families. Whether you're renting or buying, prices vary significantly depending on location and property type. The monthly cost of living in Sydney can spike if you choose to live in the city center, where rent is notably higher.
Below is a consolidated table showing the average cost of living in Sydney Australia for international students, professionals, and families based on rental and property purchase data:
Type of Housing / Metric
Avg Cost (AUD)
INR Equivalent
1 BHK – City Centre
3,337.61
INR 1.94L
1 BHK – Outside City Centre
2,314.43
INR 1.34L
3 BHK – City Centre
6,740.40
INR 3.91L
3 BHK – Outside City Centre
4,222.60
INR 2.45L
Price/sq.m – Buy in City Centre
19,417.98
INR 11.28L
Price/sq.m – Buy Outside City Centre
11,075.08
INR 6.43L
Avg Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
6,094.77
INR 3.54L
Annual Mortgage Interest Rate (20-Year Fixed)
6.21%
—
Source: Numbeo
Hence, the most expensive accommodation option is a 3-bedroom apartment in the city center, which can cost upto AUD 10,000 (INR 5.81L) per month.
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Food and Grocery Expenses
Food is a major component of the cost of living in Sydney, and your monthly spend depends on whether you cook at home or eat out frequently. The average cost of living in Sydney for food ranges from AUD 300 to 800 (INR 17.4K–46.5K) per month.
Below is a consolidated table showing the monthly cost of living in Sydney for food and groceries:
Item / Category
Avg Cost (AUD)
Avg Cost (INR)
Meal at Inexpensive Restaurant
25.83
INR 1.5 K
Meal for Two at Mid-Range Restaurant (3 Courses)
130.75
INR 7.6K
Fast-Food Combo (McDonald's)
15.00
INR 871
Cappuccino
5.40
INR 314
Soft Drink (0.33L)
3.99
INR 232
Bottled Water (0.33L)
3.11
INR 181
Milk (1L)
2.71
INR 157
Bread (500g)
3.98
INR 231
Rice (1kg)
3.38
INR 196
Eggs (12)
8.30
INR 482
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
13.21
INR 768
Beef (1kg)
21.04
INR 1.2 K
Apples (1kg)
4.87
INR 283
Bananas (1kg)
4.28
INR 249
Tomatoes (1kg)
7.07
INR 411
Potatoes (1kg)
3.74
INR 217
Onions (1kg)
3.61
INR 210
Lettuce (1 head)
3.29
INR 191
Source: Numbeo
The most expensive grocery item is beef, costing AUD 21.04 (INR 1,223) per kg, while dining out at mid-range restaurants can cost up to AUD 180 (INR 10.4K) for two people.
Transportation Costs in Sydney
Transportation in Sydney is reliable but can be costly depending on your mode of travel. For international students, public transport is the most affordable option. The monthly cost of living in Sydney includes commuting expenses that vary for students, professionals, and families.
Here’s a snapshot of the average cost of living in Sydney for transport:
Item
Avg. Cost (AUD)
Avg. Cost INR
Monthly Public Transport Pass
217.39
INR 12.5 K
One-Way Ticket (Bus/Train)
5.00
INR 291
Taxi Start Fare
6.00
INR 349
Gasoline (1 Liter)
1.89
INR 110
Source: Numbeo
For those wondering “what is the cost of living in Sydney Australia”, transport is a key factor. Families and professionals who own vehicles may spend significantly more, especially on fuel and parking. The cost of living in Sydney for family of 4 can rise sharply if multiple members commute daily by car.
Utilities and internet are essential monthly expenses that contribute to the cost of living in Sydney. For international students and families, these costs can vary depending on apartment size, usage, and service providers
Here’s an overview of the average cost of living in Sydney for basic utilities and internet:
Item
Avg Cost (AUD)
Avg Cost (INR)
Basic Utilities (915 sq ft apt)
300.60
INR 17.4 K
Broadband Internet (Unlimited)
79.78
INR 4.6 K
Mobile Plan (Calls + 10GB Data)
37.28
INR 2.1 K
Source: Numbeo
Entertainment and Lifestyle Expenses
Sydney offers a vibrant lifestyle, and students can enjoy plenty of activities without overspending. While some entertainment options are paid, many are free or low-cost, helping manage the monthly cost of living in Sydney.
Here’s an overview of student-friendly lifestyle costs:
Item
Avg Cost (AUD)
Avg Cost (INR)
Gym Membership (Monthly)
101.65
INR 5.9K
Tennis Court (1 Hour Weekend)
32.73
INR 1.9K
Movie Ticket (Standard)
22.00
INR 1.3K
Cappuccino
5.40
INR 300
Bottled Water (0.33L)
3.11
INR 200
Source: Numbeo
Free & Budget-Friendly Activities for Students in Sydney
Bondi to Coogee coastal walk
Visit free museums and art galleries (e.g., Art Gallery of NSW)
Attend university-hosted events and clubs
Explore public parks and gardens like the Royal Botanic Garden
Enjoy beach days at Bondi, Manly, or Bronte
Join free fitness or yoga sessions in community spaces
Use student discounts for movies, transport, and memberships
These options help reduce the cost of living in Sydney Australia for international students, while still enjoying the city’s culture and lifestyle.
Healthcare and Insurance Costs
Healthcare in Sydney is high-quality, with both public and private systems available. For international students, having Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory. It helps cover basic medical services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and emergency treatment.
Here are the average healthcare and insurance costs in Sydney:
Item
Avg Cost (AUD)
Avg Cost (INR)
OSHC (Annual)
500–600
INR 29K–35K
Doctor Visit (General)
70–100
INR 4K–5.8K
Prescription Medicines
20–50
INR 1.2K–2.9K
Sydney’s public healthcare system is rated highly for equipment, staff competency, and accessibility. Most universities also offer free or subsidized counselling and health services, helping reduce the cost of living in Sydney Australia for international students.
Budgeting Tips to Manage Living Costs in Sydney
Managing your expenses wisely is key to surviving the cost of living in Sydney, especially for international students. With smart planning, you can enjoy the city without overspending.
To overcome overspending, try these:
Use budgeting apps like Splitwise, Mint, or Frollo to track daily expenses.
Set monthly limits for rent, food, and entertainment.
Take advantage of student discounts on transport, gym memberships, and events.
Cook at home instead of eating out frequently.
Share accommodation to split rent and utility bills.
Buy second-hand items for furniture, books, and electronics.
Use public transport instead of owning a vehicle.
Plan for emergencies by saving at least AUD 500–1,000 (INR 29K–58K).
Conclusion
Sydney is a world-class city with a high standard of living, and a price tag to match. For international students, understanding the cost of living in Sydney is essential for planning a comfortable and financially sustainable stay. From rent and groceries to transport and entertainment, every expense adds up.
By budgeting smartly and using student-friendly resources, you can manage the monthly cost of living in Sydney without compromising experience. Now that you know what is the cost of living in Sydney Australia, you're better prepared to make informed decisions and thrive in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.
What’s a realistic weekly student budget in Sydney?
A realistic weekly student budget in Sydney ranges from AUD 600 (INR 34.9K) to AUD 750 (INR 43.6K), covering rent, groceries, transport, mobile data, and occasional dining. Shared accommodation and student discounts help reduce costs. Budgeting apps like MoneySmart can help manage expenses effectively.
How does Sydney compare to global student cities in cost?
Sydney ranks among the top 20 most expensive cities globally for students, with higher rent and transport costs than cities like Berlin or Tokyo. However, it offers world-class education, safety, and lifestyle perks. Compared to London or New York, Sydney is slightly more affordable in dining and healthcare.
Are there any student grants or subsidies in Sydney?
Students in Sydney can access grants like the RTP Stipend (AUD 37,207/year (INR 21.6L)), university bursaries, and emergency vouchers. International students may qualify for Australia Awards or Destination Australia scholarships. Some universities also offer interest-free loans and fee waivers.
What financial mistakes do students often make in Sydney?
Common financial mistakes include underestimating hidden costs like utilities, overspending on food delivery, ignoring student discounts, and relying heavily on credit cards. Many students skip budgeting or fail to track expenses, leading to debt. Planning and avoiding impulse buys can prevent these pitfalls.
What’s the setup cost for a new apartment in Sydney?
Setting up a new apartment in Sydney can cost AUD 3,000–5,000 (INR 1.74L–2.91L), including bond, furniture, kitchenware, and utility connections. Shared housing reduces costs. Students should budget for essentials and consider second-hand options to save money.
Which apps help students find cheap housing in Sydney?
Apps like Flatmates.com.au, Student.com, UniLodge, and Iglu offer listings tailored to student budgets. Erasmus Play and University Living also compare verified accommodations. These platforms allow filtering by rent, location, and amenities, helping students find affordable housing near universities.
What’s the average cost of mobile data for students?
Students in Sydney spend AUD 25–40 (INR 1.5K–2.3K) per month on mobile data. Prepaid SIM plans offer 20–50GB at competitive rates. Providers like Amaysim, Belong, and Felix offer student-friendly deals. Using Wi-Fi on campus helps reduce mobile data usage.
Do seasons affect utility bills in Sydney?
Winter heating and summer cooling increase electricity usage, raising quarterly bills to AUD 600–700 (INR 34.9K–40.7K). Time-of-use plans can help reduce costs. Energy-efficient appliances and shared housing also help manage seasonal spikes.
Can students open free bank accounts in Sydney?
Major banks like Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, NAB, and Westpac offer fee-free student accounts. These include debit cards, online banking, and access to wide ATM networks. Students must provide ID, proof of enrolment, and visa details. Some banks offer budgeting tools and cashback perks.
How pricey is Indian food at restaurants in Sydney?
Indian food in Sydney ranges from AUD 15–25 (INR 872–1.5K) for a meal at budget eateries. Mid-range restaurants charge AUD 30–50 (INR 1.7K–2.9K) per person. Buffets and student deals at places like Darbar Wenty or The Colonial offer value-for-money dining.
Where can students find flexible part-time jobs?
Students can find flexible part-time jobs via platforms like Seek, Jora, and Indeed. University job boards and local cafes, retail stores, and tutoring services also hire students. International students on Subclass 500 visas can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.
Are student meal plans or food subscriptions available?
Services like Dinnerly and HelloFresh offer student-friendly meal kits starting at AUD 6–8 (INR 350–465) per meal. Some universities provide subsidized meal plans or campus cafes with student discounts. Cooking at home using budget groceries helps reduce food expenses.
What’s the cost of attending events or festivals?
Paid events range from AUD 20–100 (INR 1.2K–5.8K) depending on the venue and artist. Students can access discounts via UNiDAYS, Student Edge, or early bird ticketing platforms. Free festivals like Vivid Sydney or Newtown Festival offer budget-friendly entertainment.
How much does visa renewal cost for students?
Renewing a Student Visa (Subclass 500) costs AUD 2,000 (INR 1.16L) for the primary applicant. Additional applicants over 18 pay AUD 1,225 (INR 71K), and under 18 pay AUD 400 (INR 23K). Students should also budget for OSHC, medical checks, and English tests.
What’s the average laundry cost in Sydney?
Laundry services in Sydney cost around AUD 25–30 (INR 1.5K–1.7K) per 5kg load for wash, dry, and fold. Ironing is charged per item, typically AUD 3–7 (INR 175–400). Self-service laundromats charge AUD 6–10 (INR 350–580) per load.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...
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