Cost of Living in Brisbane 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Brisbane, QLD — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$3,342
Annual cost
$40,100
Salary needed
$69,000
Cost index
86 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Brisbane 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $530 | $2,297 | $27,560 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $680 | $2,947 | $35,360 |
| Groceries (single) | $120 | $520 | $6,240 |
| Utilities | $55 | $240 | $2,880 |
| Transport | $42 | $180 | $2,160 |
| Internet & Phone | $24 | $105 | $1,260 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $771 | $3,342 | $40,100 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Brisbane
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.
Brisbane vs National Average
| Category | Brisbane | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $530 | $490 | +8.2% |
| Groceries/week | $120 | $123 | -2.4% |
| Utilities/month | $240 | $255 | -5.9% |
| Transport/month | $180 | $182 | -1.1% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.95 | $1.98 | -1.5% |
| Median house | $920,000 | $880,000 | +4.5% |
Property Prices in Brisbane 2026
Median House Price
$920,000
Median Unit Price
$560,000
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Compare Brisbane With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Brisbane in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Brisbane for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,341.67/month or $40,100/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Brisbane?
To live comfortably in Brisbane in 2026, you need a gross salary of approximately $69,000 per year. This covers essential expenses plus a 20% buffer for discretionary spending and accounts for income tax.
Is Brisbane expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Brisbane has a cost of living index of 86 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Brisbane in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Brisbane is $530 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $680 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Brisbane?
The median house price in Brisbane is approximately $920,000, while the median unit price is $560,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.