Cost of Living in Melbourne for Students: 2026

Melbourne is considered one of the favourite locations of international students because many of them come here every year. If you study in one of Melbourne’s universities and enjoy the local multicultural lifestyle, the city will become an excellent option for you. Students usually combine high-quality studies with career opportunities in the future here. 

In general, studying in Melbourne is rather expensive. On average, the cost of living in Melbourne is around AUD 1,500 to 2,800 per month. However, compared to Sydney’s cost of living, it can be cheaper for those who live in shared flats and eat out regularly.  

Melbourne provides a favorable atmosphere for young people as it is quite safe, multicultural, and offers part-time work opportunities to students. Anyway, you should try to spend your money rationally. 

In this guide, you will find all relevant information about the cost of living in Melbourne for students: from rental prices to transport costs and other necessary expenses. In addition, we provide several budget tables and tips that will be helpful for every future student. 

Average Monthly Student Expenses in Melbourne 

On average, the cost of living in Melbourne for students can range between AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,800, based on whether they opt for shared accommodation or private studio apartments and how they live their lives. Rent constitutes the largest portion of their expenditure, accounting for approximately 40-60%. The expenses of living in shared accommodation are considerably lower than those of living in private studio or apartment accommodations. The cost of living in terms of food outside, rideshare services, and entertainment can affect the expenditure of students. 

In the following table, there is an estimate of monthly student expenditures: 

Note: Students must remember these are estimated costs and may carry depending upon the individual’s lifestyle and type of accommodation. You can use the Cost of Calculator by University Living for better calculations. 

Student Accommodation Costs in Melbourne 

Accommodation is typically the biggest expense for international students in Melbourne. The type of housing you choose directly impacts your overall student budget. 

Melbourne offers a wide range of student accommodation options, from purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and shared apartments to private studio apartments. Popular student neighbourhoods such as Carlton, Parkville, Melbourne CBD, Brunswick, and Footscray provide accommodation choices for different budgets and lifestyles. 

Choosing the right room type is important because it affects not only your finances but also your comfort, privacy, and overall student experience. Students can generally choose between PBSA properties and private rental accommodation, each offering unique advantages. 

Types of Student Accommodation in Melbourne 

The types of student accommodation in Melbourne vary based on budget, lifestyle, location preferences, and privacy needs for international students moving to Australia. International students choose options ranging from managed student housing to private rentals, each offering different costs, amenities, safety levels, and independence.  

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation: PBSAs are student-only modern high-rise residences managed by providers like Scape or Yugo, offering furnished rooms, 24/7 security, all-inclusive bills, and social facilities. The average rent here costs between AUD350 to AUD650 per week. 

• Studio Rooms: These rooms are self-contained units with private bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, ideal for privacy, postgraduates or couples seeking independence; however, higher rent applies at AUD450 to AUD750 per week. 

• En-suite Rooms: These types of rooms provide a private bedroom with attached bathroom while kitchen and living areas are shared, offering balanced affordability and privacy. On average, the cost ranges from AUD300 to AUD480 per week. 

• Shared Apartments: These apartments involve renting a room in a house or multi-room flat, offering lowest costs and strong social lifestyle, ideal for budget students. The rent in these apartment cost between AUD180 and AUD320 weekly. 

Private Apartments: Such student apartment Melbourne provides full independence through leasing entire units via real estate agencies, but require managing utilities, internet, and maintenance. These are also available for working professionals and the cost ranges from AUD460 to AUD800 per week. 

Accommodation Cost Comparison 

Best Student Areas to Live in Melbourne 

Melbourne offers a variety of student-friendly neighbourhoods catering to different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for affordable housing, a balanced student experience, or premium city living, there are plenty of options close to major universities and public transport networks. 

Budget-friendly areas  

Footscray 

• Average Rent: AUD 250–380 per week 

• Nearby Universities: Victoria University, easy access to campuses across Melbourne 

• Transport Convenience: Excellent train, tram, and bus connections to the city centre and surrounding suburbs 

• Student Vibe: Diverse, multicultural, and affordable, with plenty of international food options, markets, and budget-friendly amenities. 

Bundoora 

• Average Rent: AUD 220–350 per week 

• Nearby Universities: La Trobe University, RMIT University 

• Transport Convenience: Well-connected by tram and bus services, with direct routes to university campuses 

• Student Vibe: Quiet, green, and highly student-oriented, making it popular among those seeking a more relaxed environment. 

Mid-range student areas  

Brunswick 

• Average Rent: AUD 300–450 per week 

• Nearby Universities: University of Melbourne, RMIT University 

• Transport Convenience: Frequent tram and train services provide quick access to the city and major campuses 

• Student Vibe: Trendy and creative, known for its cafés, music venues, and vibrant student community. 

Clayton 

• Average Rent: AUD 280–450 per week 

• Nearby Universities: Monash University 

• Transport Convenience: Strong bus network and easy access to train stations connecting students to central Melbourne 

• Student Vibe: Highly student-focused, with numerous study spaces, restaurants, and social activities centred around the university. 

Premium student neighbourhoods  

Cartlon 

• Average Rent: AUD 400–650 per week 

• Nearby Universities: University of Melbourne, RMIT University 

• Transport Convenience: Walking distance to many campuses and excellent tram connectivity throughout Melbourne 

• Student Vibe: Academic and lively, offering a mix of cultural attractions, cafés, libraries, and student-friendly amenities. 

Melbourne CBD 

• Average Rent: AUD 450–750+ per week 

• Nearby Universities: RMIT University, University of Melbourne, Victoria University 

• Transport Convenience: Melbourne’s best-connected area, with extensive tram, train, and bus services 

• Student Vibe: Fast-paced and cosmopolitan, offering unmatched access to shopping, entertainment, dining, and university facilities, ideal for students seeking a premium urban lifestyle. 

Popular Student Accommodation Options in Melbourne 

Melbourne is one of Australia’s most popular student cities, offering a wide range of accommodation options close to leading universities. From modern studios to shared apartments, students can find housing that matches their lifestyle, budget, and academic needs. 

Ozivillage Cardigan 

• Starting from: AUD 399/week 

• Room Types: Studio and shared apartments 

• Best For: Students seeking a balance of privacy and community living 

• Nearby University: The University of Melbourne 

• Key Amenities: Fully furnished rooms, study spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, communal lounge, laundry facilities, and secure access. 

Student Village The University of Melbourne Campus 

• Starting from: AUD 389/week 

• Room Types: Shared apartments and single rooms 

• Best For: Students who want to live on or near campus 

• Nearby University: The University of Melbourne 

• Key Amenities: Student events, study areas, communal kitchens, outdoor spaces, laundry facilities, and 24/7 support. 

Ozivillage Swanston 

• Starting from: AUD 419/week 

• Room Types: Studios and shared accommodation 

• Best For: Students looking for a central city location 

• Nearby University: RMIT University and The University of Melbourne 

• Key Amenities: Modern furnishings, social spaces, Wi-Fi, secure entry, study rooms, and easy access to public transport. 

Scape Melbourne Central 

• Starting from: AUD 459/week 

• Room Types: Studio, twin-share, and ensuite rooms 

• Best For: Students seeking premium accommodation with extensive facilities 

• Nearby University: RMIT University 

• Key Amenities: Gym, cinema room, rooftop terrace, study zones, social events, and 24/7 security. 

Unilodge Victoria University 

• Starting from: AUD 299/week 

• Room Types: Studio and multi-share apartments 

• Best For: Budget-conscious students 

• Nearby University: Victoria University 

• Key Amenities: Furnished rooms, study areas, Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, laundry facilities, and student support services. 

Compare verified student properties in Melbourne with University Living today! 

Food & Grocery Costs in Melbourne 

Food is one of the most controllable expenditure items when it comes to the budgets of students in Melbourne. The amount you spend each month on food will depend on how often you either cook at home or go out to eat. Most students prefer having a balance between both activities. 

Some of the stores that provide students with affordable food options include Aldi, Woolworths, and Coles. By cooking at home, you could easily cut down your cost of living in Melbourne, while going out for meals could lead to increased expenditure. Some students order meals using different food delivery services but pay additional delivery charges. 

Some of the websites where students can save on meals include Student Beans and Hungry Hub for meal discounts at different restaurants. Buying in bulk and meal prepping are some of the methods used by students to make ends meet. 

Save more with student discounts and budget-friendly food options to keep your monthly expenses under control. 

Transportation Costs in Melbourne 

Melbourne has one of the best transport systems in all of Australia, thus ensuring that it is convenient for students to move around the city. The use of trams, trains, and buses is widespread in Melbourne, linking to different campuses and areas where students live. 

It is common for those who reside near their universities to use either walking or cycling as a means of moving around. Taxis are available within the city together with ridesharing services like Uber, although they are relatively expensive compared to other means. 

Residing near your university ensures lower transport costs and greater convenience. In addition to that, Melbourne Airport has shuttle and rideshare services connecting the city to the airport. 

Book airport pickup and stay connected from day one with ULInfinity. 

Utility, Internet & Mobile Expenses in Melbourne 

Utility bills in Melbourne may differ depending on the type of accommodation. Students who live in privately rented accommodations have individual payments for electricity, heating, water, internet, and phone. The winter season is likely to see a rise in heating bills since Melbourne has a relatively cold climate.  

The vast majority of PBSA properties offer all-inclusive student housing in Melbourne that include utility payments such as electricity, water, heating, and the internet. As far as students pay a rent fee to their landlords, they do not need to worry about other expenses, which is quite convenient for international students. 

Regarding mobile payments, international students can easily get ready for studies by obtaining an International SIM card with ULInfinity prior to their departure to Australia. 

Part-Time Jobs & Student Income in Melbourne 

One way that international students in Melbourne utilize to manage their expenses is by working part-time. According to student visa guidelines, eligible international students may work while pursuing education. Thus, the income from work will assist them in covering their accommodation and transport expenses. 

International students who work 15-24 hours a week are capable of earning around AUD1,400-AUD3,000 per month. Some popular part-time jobs for students include retail assistant, hospitality worker, campus job, tutor, call center customer service representative, delivery driver, and freelance writer. 

Hidden Costs Students Often Miss 

While students concentrate on paying tuition fees and rent, many forget about other expenses, such as buying bedding, kitchen supplies, and study materials. All these expenses will mount soon after arrival. That is why the ULInfinity Room Essentials Kit will make the transition easier for students. 

The cost associated with visa applications, OSCH cover, accommodation deposit, and money exchange charges are some additional costs that you must factor into your budget. The services by ULInfinity like Forex, International Money Transfer, and Student Bank Account assistance programs will make managing expenses easier. 

It is essential for students to consider other expenses such as laundry services, textbooks, subscriptions, transportation, and emergency funds. Additional support through ULInfinity Health Insurance, Travel Insurance, and Guarantor Services for Students can provide greater financial security and peace of mind throughout their studies in Melbourne. 

Smart Ways to Reduce Living Costs in Melbourne 

Managing expenses in Melbourne becomes easier with smart planning and budgeting. Here are some tips and strategies to manage your finances effectively in Melbourne as a student:  

• Shared Accommodation: Sharing student accommodation in Australia cuts down your monthly rent and utility bills. 

• Book in Advance: Book your accommodation before the date of your intake to get better rates and a larger selection of apartments. 

• Student Discounts: Make use of all available discounts offered by Melbourne transport companies, entertainment, groceries, gadgets, and retail services. 

• Eat In: Cooking your own food instead of dining out every day helps cut costs considerably. 

• Campus Location: Opt for a property that is near the university and save up on transportation costs. 

• Public Transport: With an excellent public transport system, having your own vehicle is not necessary at all. 

• All-inclusive Rent: Accommodations that offer rent inclusive of utility and Internet bills are convenient. 

Is Melbourne Affordable for International Students? 

Melbourne city is known to be moderately affordable among other leading international student destinations. The city caters to all kinds of students; from budget-conscious students to those who have enough finances and prefer luxurious living. Expenses could be controlled by selecting appropriate accommodation, planning for everyday expenses and taking advantage of student discounts.   

Melbourne is relatively less expensive compared to other cities such as Sydney and London. In some cases, expenses might be high in some parts of the city, but with effective budgeting, many students can afford the expenses in Melbourne. 

Conclusion 

Cost of living in Melbourne is quite affordable, provided that students adopt effective financial planning and make informed decisions while budgeting. Apart from being an ideal study destination, Melbourne offers a good student atmosphere as well. Accommodation and other related expenses make up much of the budget of each student in the city. However, cost could be minimized by making wise choices.   

Selecting proper accommodation forms an integral part in reducing expenses in the city. With careful research and comparison of available options, students can choose an appropriate place to live in accordance with their budget plans.   

University Living provides assistance to students in finding appropriate accommodation at an affordable amount. Start planning early and secure the right student accommodation for a smoother study abroad journey. 

Frequently Asked Questions