Cost of Living in Adelaide 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Adelaide, SA — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$2,823
Annual cost
$33,880
Salary needed
$58,000
Cost index
79 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Adelaide 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $420 | $1,820 | $21,840 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $540 | $2,340 | $28,080 |
| Groceries (single) | $115 | $498 | $5,980 |
| Utilities | $55 | $240 | $2,880 |
| Transport | $37 | $160 | $1,920 |
| Internet & Phone | $24 | $105 | $1,260 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $652 | $2,823 | $33,880 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Adelaide
Based on a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment. Assumes ~30% effective tax rate at this income level. Use our take-home pay calculator for an exact after-tax breakdown.
Adelaide vs National Average
| Category | Adelaide | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $420 | $490 | -14.3% |
| Groceries/week | $115 | $123 | -6.5% |
| Utilities/month | $240 | $255 | -5.9% |
| Transport/month | $160 | $182 | -12.1% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.90 | $1.98 | -4.0% |
| Median house | $780,000 | $880,000 | -11.4% |
Property Prices in Adelaide 2026
Median House Price
$780,000
Median Unit Price
$450,000
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Compare Adelaide With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Adelaide in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Adelaide for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,823.33/month or $33,880/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Adelaide?
To live comfortably in Adelaide in 2026, you need a gross salary of approximately $58,000 per year. This covers essential expenses plus a 20% buffer for discretionary spending and accounts for income tax.
Is Adelaide expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Adelaide has a cost of living index of 79 (Sydney = 100). It is one of the more affordable major cities in Australia.
How much is rent in Adelaide in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Adelaide is $420 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $540 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Adelaide?
The median house price in Adelaide is approximately $780,000, while the median unit price is $450,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.