Brisbane, the sunny capital of Queensland, offers a perfect mix of urban living and natural beauty. But before moving here, it’s important to understand the cost of living in Brisbane—from rent and groceries to transport and moving costs.
This guide breaks down average expenses in 2025, compares Brisbane to other cities, and even helps you find affordable removalists for a smooth move.
Living in Brisbane is cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne, but costs still add up. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Major expenses include:
✔ Housing (rent/mortgage)
✔ Utilities (electricity, water, internet)
✔ Groceries & dining out
✔ Transport (public or car)
✔ Healthcare & education
Looking for ways to save on moving costs? Check out our guide on affordable and transparent pricing for budget-friendly removalists.
Housing is the biggest expense. Here’s what rent looks like in 2025:
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Some cheaper suburbs for renters:
✅ Chermside – Good for families
✅ Mount Gravatt – Near universities
✅ Ipswich – Budget-friendly
If you're moving last-minute, consider same-day removalists in Brisbane for quick and efficient service.
Expense | Brisbane | Sydney | Melbourne |
---|---|---|---|
1-Bedroom Rent (City) | 2,000–2,000–2,500 | 2,800–2,800–3,500 | 2,300–2,300–2,800 |
Monthly Transport Pass | $160 | $200 | $180 |
Meal at a Mid-Range Restaurant | 25–25–40 | 30–30–50 | 25–25–45 |
Verdict: Brisbane is 20–30% cheaper than Sydney and slightly more affordable than Melbourne.
Planning an interstate move? Compare interstate moving costs (Brisbane to Melbourne) for a smooth transition.
Best websites for rentals:
🔍 Domain
🔍 Realestate.com.au
🔍 Local real estate agents
Pro Tip: The rental market is competitive, so apply quickly!
Hiring professional removalists in Brisbane saves time and stress. Here’s what to expect:
Want to avoid hidden fees? Read our guide on hidden moving costs in Brisbane before booking.
✔ Saves time & effort
✔ Professional packing & handling
✔ Insurance for safety
Check out our list of cheap furniture removalists in Brisbane for budget-friendly options.
Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Brisbane ranges from $1,600 to $2,500 per month, depending on the location.
The average monthly living expenses for a single person in Brisbane are approximately $2,500 to $3,000.
Yes, Brisbane is more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne, particularly in terms of rent and daily living expenses.
For more tips, see our moving mistakes to avoid guide.
Brisbane offers a great lifestyle at a lower cost than Sydney or Melbourne. By budgeting wisely and using affordable removalists, you can enjoy a smooth move without overspending.
Need a reliable mover? Explore our Brisbane removalist services today!
View pricing, read reviews and book professional interstate and local removalists online.