Cost of Living in Perth 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Perth, WA — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$3,371
Annual cost
$40,456
Salary needed
$69,000
Cost index
85 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Perth 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $530 | $2,297 | $27,560 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $700 | $3,033 | $36,400 |
| Groceries (single) | $125 | $542 | $6,500 |
| Utilities | $58 | $250 | $3,000 |
| Transport | $40 | $175 | $2,100 |
| Internet & Phone | $25 | $108 | $1,296 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $778 | $3,371 | $40,456 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Perth
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.
Perth vs National Average
| Category | Perth | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $530 | $490 | +8.2% |
| Groceries/week | $125 | $123 | +1.6% |
| Utilities/month | $250 | $255 | -2.0% |
| Transport/month | $175 | $182 | -3.8% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.92 | $1.98 | -3.0% |
| Median house | $780,000 | $880,000 | -11.4% |
Property Prices in Perth 2026
Median House Price
$780,000
Median Unit Price
$470,000
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Compare Perth With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Perth in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Perth for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $3,371.33/month or $40,456/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Perth?
To live comfortably in Perth 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 Perth expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Perth has a cost of living index of 85 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Perth in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Perth is $530 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $700 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Perth?
The median house price in Perth is approximately $780,000, while the median unit price is $470,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.