What is the cost of living in Sydney?

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.

What is the most expensive city to live in Australia?

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.

Is $100,000 enough to live in Sydney?

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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Last verified: 1 July 2025

What is the cost of living in Australia in 2026?

A single person in Australia needs roughly $3,100 to $4,000 per month to cover rent, food, transport, utilities, insurance and essentials. Sydney is the most expensive capital (~$4,000), followed by Perth and Canberra (~$3,640), Brisbane (~$3,510), and Melbourne (~$3,400). Hobart and Adelaide are cheapest at around $3,100. Source: ABS Consumer Price Index and CoreLogic rental data.

Worked example. A single person earning $90,000 in Sydney takes home about $5,594/month after tax and Medicare levy. Against $4,000 in estimated living costs (rent $2,600, groceries $450, transport $180, utilities $200, other $570), that leaves roughly $1,594/month for savings or extras.

General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.

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What is the cost of living in Australia in 2026?

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