{"id":1867,"date":"2020-04-11T10:31:45","date_gmt":"2020-04-11T05:01:45","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/67.205.158.89\/?p=1867"},"modified":"2026-03-10T18:08:52","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T12:38:52","slug":"cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/","title":{"rendered":"Cost of Living in Melbourne for Students"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#Costs_of_Tuition_Fees_in_Melbourne\" >Costs of Tuition Fees in Melbourne<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#Student_Accommodation_Costs_in_Melbourne\" >Student Accommodation Costs in Melbourne<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#Student_Housing\" >Student Housing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#Private_Apartment\" >Private Apartment<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#University_Halls\" >University Halls<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#Cost_of_Living_in_Melbourne_for_Students_Key_Categories\" >Cost of Living in Melbourne for Students: Key Categories<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne-as-a-student\/#How_to_live_on_a_budget_in_Melbourne\" >How to live on a budget in Melbourne?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Melbourne is a world-renowned student city, offering a vibrant and diverse learning environment. Home to top-ranked universities, including the University of Melbourne and Monash University, Melbourne provides students with access to cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and career opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With a range of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/australia\/city\/melbourne\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">student accommodation Melbourne<\/a><\/strong> options and a well-connected public transportation system, Melbourne is an ideal destination for students from around the world. Its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere makes it easy for students to feel at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, Melbourne can be quite expensive for students moving abroad on a tight budget. On average, the estimated <strong>cost of living in Melbourne<\/strong> can range from AUD 1,200\u20132,500 per month. The exact cost depends on various factors and varies from student to student. Factors such as accommodation, food choices, transport options, leisure and more can significantly impact a student\u2019s cost of living in Melbourne. To understand how much it can cost you as per your lifestyle, give our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/cost-of-living-calculator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cost-of-Living Calculator<\/a><\/strong> a chance to calculate your average living expense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, let\u2019s take a look at some of the <strong><em>living expenses in Melbourne for students<\/em><\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Expense Category<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Estimated Cost (AUD) per month<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Accommodation<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">500\u20131,800&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Shared Apartment\/House&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">500\u20131,200&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">1,200\u20131,800&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; University-Managed Housing&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">1,000\u20131,500&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Utilities<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">130\u2013260&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Electricity, Gas, and Water&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">100\u2013200&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Internet&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">30\u201360&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Food and Groceries<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">300\u2013500&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Transport<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">60\u2013120&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Public Transport (Student Concession)&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">60\u2013120&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Cycling (One-Time Bike Purchase)&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Free (AUD 100\u2013300 upfront)&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Study Materials<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">50\u2013150&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Entertainment and Socializing<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">100\u2013250&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Cinema\/Concerts&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">50\u2013100&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Socializing (cafes, events)&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">50\u2013150&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Fitness and Wellness<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">20\u201360&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Miscellaneous<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">70\u2013160&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Mobile Phone Plans&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">20\u201350&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Health Insurance (OSHC)&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">40\u201360&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>&#8211; Personal Care and Clothing&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">50\u2013100&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Total Estimated Cost<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>1,200\u20132,500<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Costs_of_Tuition_Fees_in_Melbourne\"><\/span><strong>Costs of Tuition Fees in Melbourne<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Melbourne, a vibrant hub for world-class education, is home to some of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/admission-guide\/top-10-universities-to-study-in-australia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Australia\u2019s top universities<\/a><\/strong>. Understanding the costs of tuition fees is essential for international students planning to study in this dynamic city. Here&#8217;s a breakdown of what you can expect, helping you plan your budget effectively.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Program<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Estimated Tuition Fees (AUD)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Undergraduate (UG)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">20,000\u201345,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Postgraduate (PG)<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">22,000\u201350,000<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>These estimates vary depending on the university, course, and field of study. Programs such as medicine and engineering may have higher fees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Student_Accommodation_Costs_in_Melbourne\"><\/span><strong>Student Accommodation Costs in Melbourne<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are countless <strong><em>accommodations in Melbourne for international students<\/em><\/strong>. Keeping in mind that students have different preferences for their stay, the city has all kinds of options available. Whether you wish to live in the city or in the suburbs, finding accommodation in Melbourne is a task of just a few clicks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Student_Housing\"><\/span><strong>Student Housing<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Student housing offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, providing you with a spacious home equipped with top-notch modern facilities. With a variety of options to suit your preferences, you can enjoy the vibrant experience of communal living alongside fellow students.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most student accommodations are conveniently located within 3 miles of the city center, ensuring easy access to universities and amenities. For those seeking quieter surroundings, options farther out, up to 20 miles from the city center, are also available.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Student Housing<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Price<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Ensuite \/ Studio&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">A$950 \u2013 A$1,450&nbsp;\/ Month&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Private_Apartment\"><\/span><strong>Private Apartment<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Opting for a private apartment in Melbourne offers students a self-contained living space, providing greater independence and privacy compared to shared accommodations. These apartments typically include essential amenities such as a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area, allowing students to create a personalized and comfortable environment conducive to their study and lifestyle needs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Apartment<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Price<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Private&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">A$1,825 \u2013 A$2,300 \/ Month&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"University_Halls\"><\/span><strong>University Halls<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>University halls are on-campus accommodations designed to provide students with convenient and supportive living spaces. They typically offer furnished single or shared rooms with access to communal areas like kitchens, study spaces, and lounges. Proximity to lectures and university facilities makes them a time-saving option, especially for first-year students.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>University Hall<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Price<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Ensuite \/ Studio&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">A$1,200 \u2013 A$1,800 \/ Month<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>[Read Also:&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/accommodation\/top-5-student-accommodations-in-melbourne\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Top 5 Student Accommodations in Melbourne<\/strong><\/a><strong>]<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cost_of_Living_in_Melbourne_for_Students_Key_Categories\"><\/span><strong>Cost of Living in Melbourne for Students: Key Categories<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Food<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost of food in Melbourne can vary depending on whether you cook at home or eat out:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Groceries:<\/strong> Shopping at supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, or Aldi costs around <strong>AUD 300\u2013500 per month<\/strong>, depending on your eating habits.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dining Out:<\/strong> A meal at an affordable restaurant cost about <strong>AUD 15\u201325<\/strong>, while a coffee or snack ranges from <strong>AUD 4\u20136<\/strong>. Opting for home-cooked meals is a more budget-friendly option for students.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Transport<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Melbourne\u2019s efficient public transport system makes getting around the city easy and affordable for students:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Myki Card (Student Concession):<\/strong> AUD <strong>60\u2013120 per month<\/strong> for unlimited travel within Zones 1 and 2.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cycling:<\/strong> Melbourne is bike-friendly, and purchasing a bike (AUD <strong>100\u2013300<\/strong> upfront) can eliminate daily transport costs.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Walking:<\/strong> For students living near campus, walking is free and convenient.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Utility Bills<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Utilities are typically included in the rent for purpose-built student accommodations, but private rentals may require additional budgeting:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Electricity and Gas:<\/strong> AUD <strong>100\u2013200 per month<\/strong>, depending on the season and usage.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Water:<\/strong> AUD <strong>20\u201340 per month<\/strong> (often included in rent).&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Internet:<\/strong> AUD <strong>30\u201360 per month<\/strong> for a broadband connection.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Melbourne offers a vibrant social scene with activities to fit various budgets:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cinema\/Events:<\/strong> Tickets for movies or concerts range from <strong>AUD 15\u201350<\/strong>, with student discounts available at many venues.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dining and Socializing:<\/strong> A night out with friends, including food and drinks, costs around <strong>AUD 30\u201360<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Free Activities:<\/strong> Enjoy free options like exploring the city\u2019s parks, art galleries, and cultural festivals to make the most of Melbourne without overspending.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By budgeting carefully for these categories, students can enjoy life in Melbourne while managing their expenses effectively.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_live_on_a_budget_in_Melbourne\"><\/span><strong>How to live on a budget in Melbourne?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Living in Melbourne as a student doesn\u2019t have to break the bank. With smart planning and a few lifestyle adjustments, you can make the most of your experience without overspending. Here are some practical tips to help you live comfortably on a budget while studying in this vibrant city.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shared Accommodation:<\/strong> Save on rent by sharing a house or apartment with other students. Popular areas like Brunswick and Carlton offer affordable options.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Student Discounts:<\/strong> Use your student ID for discounts on transport, entertainment, and dining. Many cafes and shops near campuses offer student deals.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Home-Cooked Meals:<\/strong> Cooking at home is cheaper and healthier than eating out. Shop smart at Aldi or local markets and meal prep to avoid unnecessary expenses.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Affordable Transport:<\/strong> Use a Myki Concession Card for discounted public transport, cycle on Melbourne\u2019s bike paths, or walk if you live near campus.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With these tips, you can enjoy Melbourne while staying within your budget!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<p>[faq id=&#8221;16634&#8243;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Melbourne is a world-renowned student city, offering a vibrant and diverse learning environment. Home to top-ranked universities, including the University of Melbourne and Monash University, Melbourne provides students with access to cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and career opportunities. With a range of student accommodation Melbourne options and a well-connected public transportation system, Melbourne is an [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16656,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[975],"tags":[5,226],"class_list":{"0":"post-1867","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-student-finances","8":"tag-australia","9":"tag-melbourne"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1867","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1867"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1867\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16656"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1867"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1867"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1867"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}