Cost of Living in Melbourne 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Melbourne, VIC — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$3,360
Annual cost
$40,320
Salary needed
$69,000
Cost index
89 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Melbourne 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $520 | $2,253 | $27,040 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $680 | $2,947 | $35,360 |
| Groceries (single) | $125 | $542 | $6,500 |
| Utilities | $60 | $260 | $3,120 |
| Transport | $45 | $195 | $2,340 |
| Internet & Phone | $25 | $110 | $1,320 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $775 | $3,360 | $40,320 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Melbourne
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.
Melbourne vs National Average
| Category | Melbourne | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $520 | $490 | +6.1% |
| Groceries/week | $125 | $123 | +1.6% |
| Utilities/month | $260 | $255 | +2.0% |
| Transport/month | $195 | $182 | +7.1% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.98 | $1.98 | 0.0% |
| Median house | $1,050,000 | $880,000 | +19.3% |
Property Prices in Melbourne 2026
Median House Price
$1,050,000
Median Unit Price
$620,000
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Compare Melbourne With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Melbourne in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Melbourne for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,360/month or $40,320/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Melbourne?
To live comfortably in Melbourne 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 Melbourne expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Melbourne has a cost of living index of 89 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Melbourne in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Melbourne is $520 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $680 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Melbourne?
The median house price in Melbourne is approximately $1,050,000, while the median unit price is $620,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.