Cost of Living in Melbourne 2025: A Complete Guide to Rent, Expenses & Tips

Lively Melbourne city, Australia's capital of arts and home of various cultures is a hot spot with creative people bringing a good deal to the streets. Renting an apartment or house and living in a place with a low cost of living will increase your quality of life.

Average Rent in Melbourne: What to Expect

When talking about the rent in Melbourne, the price will be determined by the situation of the zone of the city and the type of property. As a general rule, renting is a very costly business in the central parts of Melbourne and it is difficult to find any type of one-room apartment at a reasonable price.

• - 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: In the city center, 1-BR apartments may be rented from $1,800 to $2,400 per month. Further from the city center, due to the lower demand for the property, rents start from $1,400 and may go up to $1,800.
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• - Studio Apartment Melbourne: Among the most compact living spaces is a studio apartment in Melbourne, with prices ranging between $1,500 and $2,000 a month. The final price depends on the location.
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• - Cheapest Rent in Melbourne: Also, you can look for alternatives in the less affluent areas of Melbourne, for example, Footscray or St. Kilda, where you could rent a flat for about $1,200 to $1,500 per month. There are lots of apartments available at the same price.

Read also:  Interstate Moving from Brisbane to Melbourne? Ozwide Movers Makes It Easy!

Living Expenses in Melbourne: A Breakdown

In addition to accommodation, one must also consider the costs associated with living expenses in Melbourne. Typically, a single person in Melbourne would spend between $2,500 and $3,200 per month on their expenses. This may consist of food, public transportation, utilities, and leisure activities. A detailed account of the recurring expenses is as follows:

• - Utilities: Electricity, gas, and water will be the typical cost of living expenses. You can expect to pay between $150 and $300 a month.
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• - Groceries: To feed a family, plan to spend about $300-$500 on groceries. This price also depends on how much one eats.
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• - Transportation: If you stay in Melbourne, you will be able to make use of convenient busing, trams, and trains. Monthly transport fees are between $150 and $200, on average.

• - Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $20 to $50 per person.

Cost of Living Comparison: Melbourne vs Other Australian Cities

In comparison to the regional areas, the cost of living in Melbourne, Australia is quite high. Nevertheless, the city also provides a variety of advantages, such as cultural events, job opportunities, and essential facilities that attract foreigners as well as natives.

Finding Places to Rent in Melbourne

When you are exploring the availability of long-term rentals or places close to me in Melbourne, one of the best ways to start is by looking at local property managers. Moreover, suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, and Richmond are the most popular, rich in both cheap and middle price rents.

Hiring Melbourne Removalists for a Smooth Move

If you're planning to relocate to Melbourne and concerned about the overall cost, it’s worth factoring in the moving process itself. Understanding your options upfront can help you budget better. Take a look at our guide to cheap packers and movers in Melbourne for affordable solutions that won’t compromise on service.
 

• - Average Costs for Hiring Removalists: On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $150 per hour depending on the size of your move and the distance.
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• - Additional Services: Some removalist companies offer packing, unpacking, and furniture assembly/disassembly for an additional fee. Be sure to inquire about these services when getting a quote.

FAQs about Living in Melbourne

1. How much does it cost to live in Melbourne for a single person?
On average, a single person in Melbourne spends between $2,500 and $3,200 per month on rent, utilities, food, and transport.

2. What is the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Melbourne?
Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 per month, while it’s cheaper in the suburbs, from $1,400 to $1,800.

3. How much are utilities in Melbourne?
Utilities such as electricity, gas, and water typically cost between $150 and $300 per month.

In summary, the average rent in Melbourne can be on the higher side, but the city offers a wide range of rental options to suit different budgets. From affordable studio apartments to more luxurious living spaces, Melbourne has something for everyone. Understanding the average living expenses in Melbourne and hiring professional Melbourne removalists for your move can help you transition smoothly while enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer.