Cost of Living in Brisbane for Students

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Australia is home to six of the world’s 100 universities and has more than 40 universities.

Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, is one of the cheapest major cities to live in the country.

It is the 25th best student city to live in the world. Every year, the city welcomes a lot of international students who seek to study and work here.

Brisbane is an affordable city for students to live and study. On average, the cost of living in Brisbane for a single person is A$1,800 to A$3,500 per month, excluding tuition fees. This is an estimated cost, and prices will vary depending on your needs and requirements.

For more personalized information, use our cost of living calculator to estimate your desired area’s average cost of living.

Before we list the details of the cost of living in Brisbane, this table will give a brief overview:

Expenses	Cost (Average)
Average Tuition Fees	A$30,000 – A$40,000 / Year
Accommodation	A$850 – A$2,550 / Month
Local transport	A$250 / Month

Costs of Tuition Fees

The cost of tuition for studying in Brisbane will vary. It will depend on your university, course, and degree. Below are the undergraduate and postgraduate annual tuition fees for international students in Brisbane:

Undergraduate Tuition Fee	Post-Graduate Tuition Fee
A$30,000 – A$35,000 / Year	A$35,000 – A$40,000 / Year

Student Accommodation Costs

There are three types of places to stay in Brisbane. They are listed below, and their pricing varies depending on location and type.

Student Housing

It is a type of accommodation built for students only. If you choose student housing, you enjoy the benefits of a fully furnished house. And best of all, your utility bills are also included. It also comes with modern amenities.

Most of the accommodations are at a distance of under 3 miles. While the ones outside of the city center are upto 20 miles.

The cost of your accommodation will vary and depend upon your location, type of housing, and facilities.

Student Housing	Price
Ensuite/Studio	A$850 – A$1,350 / Month

Private Apartment

It is run and owned by a private company. This type of accommodation provides better and more modern facilities to students. They are located near the centre and provide easy access to transportation.

Apartment	Price
Private	A$2,100 – A$2,550 / Month

University Hall

It is a type of accommodation where students live together on a university campus. It has a shared kitchen, common room, bedroom, etc. It is located within the university.

University Hall	Price
Room	A$500 – A$1,200 / Month

Food

If you eat outside, it will cost a lot. An average meal will cost A$20, and in places outside the city center, a meal will cost A$10–12 in one day. Grocery shopping in local markets or supermarkets can significantly reduce expenses, especially when buying fresh produce in bulk. Many students also opt to share cooking duties with housemates, splitting the cost of ingredients and making meal prep fun and social. Additionally, frequenting campus cafés for student meal deals can help keep daily food budgets under control.

Utility Bills

The cost of PBSA housing is inclusive of all utility bills. If you choose this type of accommodation, you can save a lot of money on your cost of living. However, for students living in private apartments, utilities like electricity, water, and internet can add an extra A$50–A$150 per month to their budget. Make sure to compare different internet providers and consider energy-efficient appliances to keep bills manageable. Many students also save by sharing utility costs among multiple roommates, spreading out expenses evenly.

Transportation

Brisbane is linked through trams, buses, and trains in the city. If you get a card, it will cost you A$20 to A$40 per week and be available at 7-Elevens and most train stations. If you want to travel far distances, there are can service too! Students can also benefit from concession fares when they register their student ID with TransLink, significantly reducing weekly travel costs. If you prefer cycling, Brisbane’s network of bike paths and rental stations can turn your commute into a pleasant ride through riverfront trails.

Entertainment

Brisbane has several options for entertainment on a budget. A movie ticket will cost around A$18 on average. And a night out would cost around A$55. The Brisbane Student Club organizes many events now and then. From free festivals in South Bank to vibrant street markets in the West End, the city offers plenty of wallet-friendly experiences. Look out for discounted student nights at local bars and clubs, as well as cultural events at QAGOMA, where free exhibitions and student entry deals are common. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy city-sponsored events, including outdoor cinemas and live music at riverside parks, especially during warmer months.

Part-Time Jobs & Earning Potential in Brisbane

In addition to living expenses, many students look for ways to supplement their income. Some students opt for on-campus roles, such as library assistants or research helpers, which allow them to work flexible hours around their class schedule. Volunteering at community events is another way to gain valuable experience and connections, potentially leading to paid positions in the future. International students can typically work up to 48 hours per fortnight (check the latest government regulations, as these may change). Students often find jobs in retail, hospitality, or tutoring. Wages can range from A$23.23/hour (minimum wage) to higher rates, depending on experience and role. Universities and local career fairs offer ample opportunities to connect with potential employers, helping you balance work and studies.

Tips on how to save money living in Brisbane

Brisbane is an attractive destination for students. It is because of its affordability and its hospitality. Apart from providing quality education, the quality of life and sustainable living are big here.

Brisbane is an average place, and there are many ways that you can save money. If you want to save money while living in this place, here are a few tips you can follow that will help you in the long run:

Discounts

Student discounts are big in Brisbane; whether it’s buses, trains, or flights, make use of them! You can also get discounts in shops and outlets. Also Check online forums and social media groups for exclusive student discount codes. Many local cafés and entertainment venues offer reduced prices on specific days of the week, so keep an eye out for “Student Nights” and promotional flyers around campus.

Find cheap accommodation

risbane has many affordable accommodations in the city. University halls can be quite difficult to get and it comes at a fixed price. But, you can find budget friend student accommodation in Brisbane. Sharing a flat with fellow students can further cut costs, as rent and utilities are split multiple ways. Some property managers also offer seasonal promotions or waive application fees for students—don’t hesitate to negotiate or ask about ongoing deals.

Meal

Meals are expensive outside at restaurants, cafes, etc. But you can save half your money if you cook and eat meals at home. Planning your meals in advance can help reduce impulse buys and food waste. Consider forming a cooking club with friends, rotating who prepares each meal, so everyone benefits from home-cooked food without spending hours in the kitchen daily.

Transportation

For close distance, walk or cycle. Otherwise, get monthly bus passes with student discounts and avail of the facilities. If you’re traveling outside the city, compare flight and train options in advance to find budget-friendly deals. Group travel can often yield discounted fares, so team up with classmates for day trips or weekend getaways.

We hope you enjoyed reading and found it helpful to understand the cost of living in Brisbane.

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