Question 1

What is the cost of living in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

For a single person in Sydney, the estimated monthly cost of living is approximately $4,000 (2025-26 estimates). This includes around $2,600 for rent (median 1-bedroom), $450 for groceries, $180 for transport, $200 for utilities, $120 for internet and phone, $150 for insurance, and $300 for other expenses. Couples should expect around $6,000/month, and families of four around $8,400/month. Sydney remains the most expensive capital city in Australia, primarily due to high rental costs.

Question 2

What is the most expensive city to live in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Sydney is consistently the most expensive city to live in Australia, with estimated monthly costs of around $4,000 for a single person. This is mainly driven by high rental costs (median around $2,600/month for a one-bedroom apartment). Perth and Canberra follow at approximately $3,640/month, then Brisbane at $3,510/month. Adelaide and Hobart are the most affordable capital cities at around $3,100-$3,130/month for a single person.

Question 3

Is $100,000 enough to live in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

On a $100,000 salary in Sydney, your estimated take-home pay after tax and Medicare levy is roughly $6,117 per month. With estimated single-person living costs of about $4,000/month, you'd have a surplus of around $2,117/month. So yes, $100,000 is enough for a single person to live in Sydney with money left for savings. However, for a couple or family, $100,000 becomes tighter — monthly costs rise to $6,000-$8,400, potentially leaving little or no surplus.

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