Cost of Living in Wollongong 2026
Full breakdown of living costs in Wollongong, NSW — rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and property prices.
Quick Summary
Monthly cost (single, 1br)
$2,915
Annual cost
$34,976
Salary needed
$60,000
Cost index
81 (Syd = 100)
Full Cost Breakdown — Wollongong 2026
| Expense | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br apartment) | $430 | $1,863 | $22,360 |
| Rent (2br apartment) | $560 | $2,427 | $29,120 |
| Groceries (single) | $118 | $511 | $6,136 |
| Utilities | $57 | $245 | $2,940 |
| Transport | $44 | $190 | $2,280 |
| Internet & Phone | $24 | $105 | $1,260 |
| Total (with 1br rent) | $673 | $2,915 | $34,976 |
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Wollongong
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.
Wollongong vs National Average
| Category | Wollongong | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1br/week) | $430 | $490 | -12.2% |
| Groceries/week | $118 | $123 | -4.1% |
| Utilities/month | $245 | $255 | -3.9% |
| Transport/month | $190 | $182 | +4.4% |
| Petrol/litre | $1.99 | $1.98 | +0.5% |
| Median house | $920,000 | $880,000 | +4.5% |
Property Prices in Wollongong 2026
Median House Price
$920,000
Median Unit Price
$610,000
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Compare Wollongong With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Wollongong in 2026?
The estimated cost of living in Wollongong for a single person renting a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,914.67/month or $34,976/year, covering rent, groceries, utilities, transport, and internet/phone.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Wollongong?
To live comfortably in Wollongong in 2026, you need a gross salary of approximately $60,000 per year. This covers essential expenses plus a 20% buffer for discretionary spending and accounts for income tax.
Is Wollongong expensive compared to other Australian cities?
Wollongong has a cost of living index of 81 (Sydney = 100). It is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities.
How much is rent in Wollongong in 2026?
Average weekly rent in Wollongong is $430 for a 1-bedroom apartment and $560 for a 2-bedroom apartment (2026 estimates).
What is the median house price in Wollongong?
The median house price in Wollongong is approximately $920,000, while the median unit price is $610,000 (2026 estimates).
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.