Cost of Living: Melbourne vs Hobart (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of living costs between Melbourne and Hobart, Australia.
The Verdict
Hobart is $5,964/year cheaper than Melbourne. You need to earn approximately $10,000 more per year to maintain the same lifestyle in Melbourne compared to Hobart.
Side-by-Side Cost Comparison
| Category | Melbourne | Hobart | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $520 | $420 | Hobart |
| Rent (2br/week) | $680 | $530 | Hobart |
| Groceries/week | $125 | $120 | Hobart |
| Utilities/month | $260 | $260 | Tie |
| Transport/month | $195 | $155 | Hobart |
| Internet & Phone/month | $110 | $108 | Hobart |
| Petrol/litre | $1.98 | $2.00 | Melbourne |
| Median house price | $1,050,000 | $700,000 | Hobart |
| Median unit price | $620,000 | $480,000 | Hobart |
| Cost of living index | 89 | 80 | Hobart |
How Much More Do You Need to Earn?
Check exactly what you take home with our take-home pay calculator.
Which City is Cheaper — Category by Category
Net Difference in Annual Costs
Living in Hobart saves you $5,964 per year compared to Melbourne. That is $497/month or $115/week.
Explore Each City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melbourne or Hobart cheaper to live in?
Hobart is cheaper to live in than Melbourne by approximately $5,964 per year. Hobart has a cost of living index of 80 compared to 89 for Melbourne (Sydney = 100).
How much more do you need to earn in Melbourne compared to Hobart?
You need to earn approximately $10,000 more per year (pre-tax) to maintain the same standard of living in Melbourne compared to Hobart.
Is rent cheaper in Melbourne or Hobart?
A 1-bedroom apartment costs $520/week in Melbourne and $420/week in Hobart. Hobart is cheaper for rent by $100/week.
Are groceries more expensive in Melbourne or Hobart?
Weekly groceries for a single person cost $125 in Melbourne and $120 in Hobart. Hobart is cheaper for groceries.
Which city has cheaper property — Melbourne or Hobart?
The median house price in Melbourne is $1,050,000 compared to $700,000 in Hobart. Hobart has cheaper property.
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.