Planning your monthly budget is important when moving to a new city, as the cost of living in Melbourne can vary depending on your lifestyle. A single person generally needs around AUD 3,400 (approximately INR 2.29L) per month, while a family of four may spend about AUD 8,000 (around INR 5.39L). Students can manage with AUD 1,500-2,000 (approximately INR 1.01L-1.35L) with careful budgeting.
Good education, career opportunities, and a high quality of life make Melbourne a popular choice for people moving from abroad. For students, understanding the cost of living in Melbourne for international students can make it easier to plan monthly expenses.
This article covers expenses by profile, including accommodation, food, transport, utilities, healthcare, and practical budgeting tips to help you manage the cost of living in Melbourne, Australia.
Cost of Living in Melbourne by Profile
The monthly budget required in Melbourne depends on the type of resident, city location, accommodation, and lifestyle. The cost of living in Melbourne for international students can vary depending on housing arrangements, food choices, transportation and personal spending.
The following table presents the estimated monthly budgets for different profiles, including students, professionals, couples, and families planning to study in Australia:
Profile
Estimated Monthly Budget (AUD / Approximately in INR)
International Student
AUD 1,800-2,800 (INR 1.21L-1.89L)
Student in Shared Housing
Around AUD 1,400-2,200 (INR 94,360-1.48L)
Working Professional
Around AUD 3,000-4,500+ (INR 2.02L-3.03L+), depending on city location and housing
Couple
Around AUD 4,000-6,000+ (INR 2.70L-4.04L+), depending on housing and lifestyle
Family
Around AUD 5,500-8,000+ (INR 3.71L-5.39L+), especially with private housing and childcare
These are planning estimates rather than fixed spending limits. Students who share accommodation, cook regularly and use public transportation can often keep their monthly expenses lower. Those renting private apartments closer to central Melbourne may need a significantly larger budget.
Cost of Living in Melbourne by Cities
Living expenses vary across Melbourne's suburbs, making the cost of living in Melbourne, Australia dependent largely on location and accommodation. Central areas generally have higher rents, while outer suburbs can offer comparatively affordable options.
Melbourne is a popular destination for international students, and rental costs vary between central and outer areas. Students living closer to universities, public transport and amenities may need larger accommodation budgets.
The following table compares estimated 1BHK rental costs in the city centre and outside the city centre across selected Melbourne areas:
Area
1BHK City Centre (AUD / Approximately in INR)
1BHK Outside City Centre (AUD / Approximately in INR)
Melbourne
AUD 2,100-3,000 (INR 1.42L-2.02L)
AUD 1,600-2,300 (INR 1.08L-1.55L)
Southbank
AUD 2,100-2,900 (INR 1.42L-1.96L)
AUD 1,700-2,300 (INR 1.15L-1.55L)
Carlton
AUD 2,000-2,800 (INR 1.35L-1.89L)
AUD 1,600-2,200 (INR 1.08L-1.48L)
Richmond
AUD 2,000-2,900 (INR 1.35L-1.96L)
AUD 1,600-2,300 (INR 1.08L-1.55L)
Footscray
AUD 1,700-2,400 (INR 1.15L-1.62L)
AUD 1,400-2,000 (INR 94,360-1.35L)
Clayton
AUD 1,600-2,300 (INR 1.08L-1.55L)
AUD 1,400-2,000 (INR 94,360-1.35L)
Source: Numbeo
Students should note that private one-bedroom apartments differ from student rooms and shared accommodation. For Indian students, choosing shared housing or properties farther from central Melbourne can reduce rent, although commuting costs should also be considered.
Accommodation Costs in Melbourne
Housing is one of the largest expenses contributing to the cost of living in Melbourne. Most students choose shared accommodation in Australia which is generally more affordable than renting an entire apartment.
The rental costs vary depending on apartment size and location. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around AUD 2,456 (approximately INR 1.65L), while properties outside the city centre cost approximately AUD 1,980 (around INR 1.33L) per month.
The table outlines typical monthly housing costs by apartment size and location, highlighting the difference between central and non-central areas:
Accommodation Type
Approximate Monthly Cost (AUD / Approximately in INR)
1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre
AUD 2,167-2,800 (INR 1.46L-1.89L)
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside City Centre
AUD 1,800-2,200 (INR 1.21L-1.48L)
3 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre
AUD 4,000-5,600 (INR 2.70L-3.77L)
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside City Centre
AUD 2,600-4,500 (INR 1.75L-3.03L)
Source: Numbeo
Students should not compare rent alone when planning the cost of living in Melbourne for Indian students. An affordable apartment farther from campus may increase transportation costs and daily travel time, while shared housing can reduce individual rental expenses.
Monthly Food and Grocery Expenses in Melbourne
Food expenses in Melbourne depend on whether students cook at home, eat at university facilities, or regularly visit restaurants. Cooking at home can help manage the cost of living in Melbourne, while frequent dining out can increase monthly spending.
Eating out regularly can increase the monthly budget considerably, particularly in central Melbourne and popular student areas. Here are some common dining-out expenses to consider when estimating the average cost of living in Melbourne:
At the city level, an inexpensive restaurant meal at around AUD 25 (approximately INR 1,685) per person, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around AUD 115 (approximately INR 7,750).
Common Grocery Items in Melbourne
Grocery shopping forms a significant part of the cost of living in Melbourne, Australia. The following list highlights the estimated prices of everyday essentials, helping students plan their monthly food budget more effectively.
The given table gives an overview of typical grocery prices in Melbourne, covering essential dairy, meat, fruits, vegetables, rice, eggs, and bottled water:
Grocery Item
Approximate Cost (AUD / Approximately in INR)
Milk (1 litre)
AUD 1.65-4 (INR 111-270)
Bread (500g)
AUD 3-7 (INR 202-472)
Rice (1 kg)
AUD 2-6 (INR 135-404)
Eggs (12)
AUD 5-12 (INR 337-809)
Local Cheese (1 kg)
AUD 9-40 (INR 607-2,696)
Chicken Fillets (1 kg)
AUD 8-18 (INR 539-1,213)
Beef (1 kg)
AUD 18-30 (INR 1,213-2,022)
Apples (1 kg)
AUD 4-10 (INR 270-674)
Bananas (1 kg)
AUD 4-7 (INR 270-472)
Oranges (1 kg)
AUD 3-8.90 (INR 202-600)
Tomatoes (1 kg)
AUD 3.90-9.90 (INR 263-667)
Potatoes (1 kg)
AUD 3-6 (INR 202-404)
Onions (1 kg)
AUD 2.50-6 (INR 169-404)
Lettuce (1 head)
AUD 3-5 (INR 202-337)
Bottled Water (1.5 litre)
AUD 0.84-6 (INR 57-404)
Source: Numbeo
Note: Prices of the listed items may vary by supermarket, brand and location.
Transportation Costs in Melbourne
Public transportation in Melbourne includes trains, trams and buses. Cycling and walking can also help students reduce daily travel expenses and manage their monthly budget.
The table highlights key transportation expenses contributing to the cost of living in Melbourne, including public transport, taxi fares, and fuel costs:
Transport Type
Approximate Cost (AUD / Approximately in INR)
One-Way Local Transport
AUD 5-10 (INR 337-674)
Monthly Public Transport Pass
AUD 120-239.13 (INR 8,088-16,111)
Taxi Start Fare
AUD 5-10 (INR 337-674)
Taxi per km
AUD 1.88-2.20 (INR 127-148)
Taxi Waiting, 1 hour
AUD 41.64-46.26 (INR 2,807-3,118)
Gasoline, 1 litre
AUD 1.63-2.50 (INR 110-169)
Source: Numbeo
Students should check transport products and concessions available for their travel patterns. For cost of living in Melbourne for international students, choosing accommodation close to campus can also reduce regular commuting expenses.
Utilities and Internet Costs in Melbourne
Monthly expenses also include electricity, heating, cooling, water, waste collection, internet, and mobile services, all of which can influence the average cost of living in Melbourne. Some student accommodations include utilities within rent.
The table highlights the estimated monthly expenses for essential household utilities, mobile connectivity, and broadband internet in Melbourne:
Utility
Approximate Monthly Cost (AUD / Approximately in INR)
Basic Utilities - 85 m² Apartment
AUD 212.50-500 (INR 14,323-33,700)
Mobile Phone Plan
AUD 20-55 (INR 1,348-3,707)
Broadband Internet
AUD 65-95 (INR 4,381-6,403)
Source: Numbeo
Utility costs can vary significantly depending on property size, energy usage, heating requirements and rental arrangements. Students sharing accommodation can usually divide internet and utility bills among residents.
Healthcare and Health Insurance Costs in Melbourne
International students in Australia must generally maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) throughout their stay. The cost of living in Melbourne, Australia should therefore include insurance premiums, while actual healthcare expenses depend on treatment and policy coverage.
The table summarizes key healthcare and insurance expenses in Melbourne, including required student insurance and healthcare costs that can vary according to individual treatment and coverage:
Healthcare / Insurance Expense
Approximate Cost
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Varies by provider, policy and duration
GP / Hospital Costs
Depends on treatment and insurance coverage
Prescription Medicines
Depends on medicine and coverage
Insurance Excess / Co-payment
Varies by policy and treatment
Specialist Healthcare
Depends on treatment and coverage
Insurance requirements and healthcare costs vary according to individual circumstances. For cost of living in Melbourne for Indian students, students should compare OSHC policies carefully and check inclusions, exclusions, excesses and co-payments before purchasing cover.
Leisure and Miscellaneous Costs in Melbourne
International students may spend money on fitness, cinema, sports, social activities, clothing, personal care and hobbies. These expenses are discretionary and can be adjusted according to the student's budget.
The following table outlines typical leisure, fitness, and clothing expenses that contribute to monthly living expenses in Melbourne:
Activity / Item
Approximate Cost (AUD / Approximately in INR)
Fitness Club Membership
AUD 50-120 (INR 3,370-8,088)
Cinema Ticket
AUD 19-30 (INR 1,281-2,022)
Tennis Court Rental
AUD 20-35 (INR 1,348-2,359)
Jeans
AUD 70-150 (INR 4,717-10,110)
Summer Dress
AUD 40-120 (INR 2,695-8,087)
Running Shoes
AUD 100-250 (INR 6,740-16,850)
Source: Numbeo
Students can manage leisure expenses by using university facilities, taking advantage of student discounts, attending free campus events, and setting a monthly entertainment budget.
Education Costs for International Students in Melbourne
The cost of education is also an important part of the cost of living in Melbourne, with tuition fees for international students varying by education provider, level of study, course and location. Australian Government guidance does not prescribe one fixed tuition fee for all international students.
The table details indicative annual tuition costs in Melbourne across undergraduate and postgraduate study categories. Actual fees can vary considerably between programs and institutions:
Program / Student Category
Approximate Annual Tuition (AUD / Approximately in INR)
Undergraduate Programs
Approximately AUD 30,000-60,000 (INR 20.22L-40.44L)
Postgraduate Programs
Approximately AUD 30,000-70,000 (INR 20.22L-47.18L)
Research Programs
Varies by university and program
Application / Handling Fee, where applicable
Varies by institution
These figures are indicative planning ranges rather than fixed fees. The official Australian course search lists individual program costs, with examples including undergraduate courses exceeding AUD 50,000 per year (approximately INR 33.70L) and postgraduate programs with substantially different total course costs.
Beyond tuition fees, students attending universities in Australia should also budget for additional study-related expenses, such as:
Note: Students should verify the tuition fee for their exact program on the university's official website or the Australian Government's official course search before applying. Student visa application charge is AUD 2,500 (approximately INR 1.69L) from 1 July 2026, unless an exemption applies.
Living expenses in Melbourne are generally higher than in India, particularly for accommodation, dining, transportation, and utilities. Indian students should compare local prices and plan their budget rather than relying only on currency conversion.
The table compares major food, transport, accommodation, and utility expenses in cost of living in Melbourne, Australia with typical costs in India:
Expense Category
Melbourne Cost (AUD / Approximately in INR)
India Cost (INR)
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal
AUD 15-50 (INR 1,011-3,370)
INR 100-500
Meal for Two
AUD 80-195 (INR 5,392-13,143)
INR 699-3,000
Fast-Food Meal
AUD 15-20 (INR 1,011-1,348)
INR 300-500
Monthly Transport
AUD 120-239.13 (INR 8,088-16,111)
INR 300-2,000
Milk (1 litre)
AUD 1.60-4 (INR 108-270)
INR 42-76
Eggs (12)
AUD 5-13.20 (INR 337-890)
INR 60-120
1BHK City Centre
AUD 2,167-2,800 (INR 1.46L-1.89L)
INR 7,000-61,846
Basic Utilities
AUD 212.50-500 (INR 14,323-33,700)
INR 2,000-8,000
Source: Numbeo
The comparison should be used only as a broad planning guide. An Indian student's actual cost of living in Melbourne for international students will depend heavily on accommodation, food preferences, transportation choices, location and lifestyle.
Budgeting Tips for Students and Expats in Melbourne
Planning expenses in advance can make the cost of living in Melbourne easier to manage, particularly for students and newcomers adjusting to Australian prices. Housing, groceries and daily travel are the main areas where careful budgeting can make a noticeable difference.
How to Save on Accommodation in Melbourne?
Choosing the right housing arrangement can substantially lower monthly expenses. For students, shared rentals and university-linked accommodation may be more economical than living alone in a private apartment.
Compare shared rooms, student accommodation and private rentals.
Look beyond Melbourne's most expensive central neighbourhoods.
Check whether utilities and internet are included in the rent.
Inspect the property and verify the rental agreement before paying.
Consider sharing a larger apartment with classmates or friends.
Factor commuting costs into the total housing budget.
Start searching early, particularly before major university intakes.
Avoid making payments to unverified rental listings.
For cost of living in Melbourne for Indian students, accommodation should be assessed alongside transport and other recurring expenses. A slightly higher rent may sometimes be worthwhile if the property is close to campus and reduces daily commuting costs.
How to Save on Food?
Food spending can vary considerably depending on how often students cook, order takeaway or eat at restaurants. Planning meals and comparing supermarket prices can help keep grocery bills under control.
Prepare most meals at home instead of relying on takeaway.
Compare prices across major supermarkets and local stores.
Purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables where possible.
Plan weekly meals before shopping.
Carry homemade food to university or work.
Look for supermarket specials and loyalty offers.
Buy frequently used products in larger quantities when practical.
Set a separate monthly limit for dining out and coffee.
How to Save on Transportation?
Transport costs can be reduced by combining public transport with walking or cycling where practical. Choosing accommodation near regular routes can also make everyday travel more affordable.
Use public transport for regular university or workplace journeys.
Walk for short-distance trips whenever practical.
Consider cycling for suitable local routes.
Check available concession or student travel options.
Choose housing with convenient access to public transport.
Compare commuting costs before finalising a rental.
Plan multiple errands within a single journey.
Avoid unnecessary taxi or rideshare trips.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Melbourne varies based on accommodation, lifestyle, food choices and transportation. A 1-bedroom apartment can cost around AUD 2,167-2,800 (INR 1.46L-1.89L) in the city centre and AUD 1,400-2,200 (INR 94,360-1.48L) outside the centre.
For cost of living in Melbourne for Indian students, shared accommodation and careful spending can make monthly budgeting easier. Basic utilities for an 85 m² apartment may cost around AUD 226.67-500 (INR 15,277-33,700), while a monthly transport pass can range from AUD 126-239.13 (INR 8,492-16,118).
Overall, Melbourne is a relatively expensive Australian city, but students and professionals can manage expenses effectively by choosing affordable housing, cooking at home, using public transport and maintaining a realistic monthly budget.
A single professional can generally aim for around AUD 70,000-90,000 (approximately INR 47.18L-60.66L) annually for a comfortable lifestyle in Melbourne, depending on housing, location, and spending habits.
Is it cheaper to live in Melbourne or Sydney?
Melbourne is generally cheaper than Sydney, particularly for housing, although costs vary by suburb and lifestyle. Comparing rent, transport, groceries, and utilities can help you estimate the cost of living in Melbourne, Australia.
Is Australia costly for Indians?
Yes, Australia can be expensive for Indians, especially for accommodation, groceries, transportation, and education. The cost of living in Melbourne for Indian students can be managed through shared housing, budgeting, and careful spending.
What's the cheapest city to live in Australia?
Cities such as Adelaide, Hobart, and Darwin are often considered more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne. However, costs vary by lifestyle, so compare rent, groceries, transport, and other expenses before choosing where to live.
What are the top 3 cities in Australia?
Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are among Australia’s leading cities for employment, education, business, and lifestyle. Melbourne is particularly attractive for international students, while Sydney offers a major financial and business ecosystem.
Which city in Australia is best for job opportunities?
Melbourne is one of Australia’s strongest cities for job opportunities, with major employment across healthcare, technology, finance, education, manufacturing, professional services, and construction. Your ideal city ultimately depends on your occupation and experience.
What are the main industries in Melbourne?
Major industries in Melbourne include healthcare, technology, finance, education, manufacturing, professional services, construction, and logistics. Its diverse economy creates opportunities for international students and skilled professionals across different sectors and career levels.
Where do most Indians live in Australia?
Melbourne has one of Australia’s largest Indian communities. The 2021 Census recorded 242,635 people born in India across Greater Melbourne, making Melbourne a major destination for Indian migrants, families, and students.
Which is the safest city in Australia?
There is no single officially designated safest city in Australia, as safety varies by neighbourhood and crime category. Adelaide, Canberra, Melbourne, and Perth are often considered relatively safe, though conditions can change.
Is moving to Melbourne a good idea?
Moving to Melbourne can be a good idea for students and professionals seeking education, employment opportunities, and multicultural communities. However, the cost of living in Melbourne should be carefully considered alongside your expected income.
Do Indians get PR in Australia?
Yes, Indians can obtain Australian permanent residency if they qualify for an eligible permanent visa. Skilled migration is one pathway, with applicants required to meet specific occupation, skills, health, character, and other requirements.
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