Melbourne, Australia
Cost of living · 2023 · Oceania · Rent +6.8% vs 2022
Rent trend in Melbourne (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Melbourne (2023)
Estimated monthly budget in Melbourne
Based on 2023 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in Australia (2023)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Melbourne |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | AUD 2,256 | AUD 541 | AUD 155 | AUD 216 | — |
| Adelaide | AUD 1,598 | AUD 512 | AUD 108 | AUD 197 | -29.2% |
| Brisbane | AUD 1,974 | AUD 526 | AUD 174 | AUD 207 | -12.5% |
| Canberra | AUD 1,880 | AUD 526 | AUD 71 | AUD 207 | -16.7% |
| Gold Coast | AUD 1,786 | AUD 522 | AUD 66 | AUD 202 | -20.8% |
| Perth | AUD 1,833 | AUD 517 | AUD 150 | AUD 202 | -18.8% |
| Sydney | AUD 2,726 | AUD 583 | AUD 197 | AUD 244 | +20.8% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Melbourne in 2023?
In 2023, a single person living in Melbourne needs approximately AUD 3,333/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around AUD 6,139/month. Melbourne is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Melbourne in 2023?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Melbourne costs approximately AUD 2,256/month in 2023. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around AUD 3,948/month. Rent has changed +6.8% vs 2022.
How much do groceries cost in Melbourne?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Melbourne are approximately AUD 541 in 2023. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Melbourne?
A monthly public transport pass in Melbourne costs AUD 155 in 2023, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Melbourne?
Monthly utility costs in Melbourne average AUD 216 in 2023, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Melbourne expensive to live in?
Melbourne is located in Australia (Oceania). With a 1-bed rent of AUD 2,256/month and total single-person expenses around AUD 3,333/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Melbourne?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Melbourne costs approximately AUD 21 in 2023. Budget around AUD 165/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Melbourne changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Melbourne from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 21.5% over this period (from AUD 2,112 in 2022 to AUD 2,566 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Melbourne?
To live comfortably in Melbourne in 2023, a single person needs approximately AUD 3,333/month. This covers rent (AUD 2,256), groceries (AUD 541), transport (AUD 155), utilities (AUD 216) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around AUD 6,139/month.