Cost of Living in Canberra 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Canberra, ACT — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$3,410
Annual cost
$40,920
Salary needed
$70,000
Cost index
88 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Canberra 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $530 | $2,297 | $27,560 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $680 | $2,947 | $35,360 |
| Groceries (single) | $130 | $563 | $6,760 |
| Utilities | $62 | $270 | $3,240 |
| Transport | $39 | $170 | $2,040 |
| Internet & Phone | $25 | $110 | $1,320 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $787 | $3,410 | $40,920 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Canberra
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.
Canberra vs National Average
| Category | Canberra | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $530 | $490 | +8.2% |
| Groceries/week | $130 | $123 | +5.7% |
| Utilities/month | $270 | $255 | +5.9% |
| Transport/month | $170 | $182 | -6.6% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.95 | $1.98 | -1.5% |
| Median house | $1,000,000 | $880,000 | +13.6% |
Property Prices in Canberra 2026
Median House Price
$1,000,000
Median Unit Price
$580,000
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Compare Canberra With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Canberra in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Canberra for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,410/month or $40,920/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Canberra?
To live comfortably in Canberra in 2026, you need a gross salary of approximately $70,000 per year. This covers essential expenses plus a 20% buffer for discretionary spending and accounts for income tax.
Is Canberra expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Canberra has a cost of living index of 88 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Canberra in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Canberra is $530 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $680 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Canberra?
The median house price in Canberra is approximately $1,000,000, while the median unit price is $580,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.