Cost of Living in Darwin 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Darwin, NT — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$3,293
Annual cost
$39,520
Salary needed
$68,000
Cost index
87 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Darwin 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $480 | $2,080 | $24,960 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $620 | $2,687 | $32,240 |
| Groceries (single) | $145 | $628 | $7,540 |
| Utilities | $69 | $300 | $3,600 |
| Transport | $39 | $170 | $2,040 |
| Internet & Phone | $27 | $115 | $1,380 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $760 | $3,293 | $39,520 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Darwin
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.
Darwin vs National Average
| Category | Darwin | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $480 | $490 | -2.0% |
| Groceries/week | $145 | $123 | +17.9% |
| Utilities/month | $300 | $255 | +17.6% |
| Transport/month | $170 | $182 | -6.6% |
| Petrol/litre | $2.10 | $1.98 | +6.1% |
| Median house | $580,000 | $880,000 | -34.1% |
Property Prices in Darwin 2026
Median House Price
$580,000
Median Unit Price
$350,000
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Compare Darwin With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Darwin in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Darwin for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,293.33/month or $39,520/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Darwin?
To live comfortably in Darwin in 2026, you need a gross salary of approximately $68,000 per year. This covers essential expenses plus a 20% buffer for discretionary spending and accounts for income tax.
Is Darwin expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Darwin has a cost of living index of 87 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Darwin in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Darwin is $480 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $620 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Darwin?
The median house price in Darwin is approximately $580,000, while the median unit price is $350,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.