{"id":25158,"date":"2026-06-15T19:00:43","date_gmt":"2026-06-15T13:30:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/?p=25158"},"modified":"2026-06-15T19:00:46","modified_gmt":"2026-06-15T13:30:46","slug":"cost-of-living-in-melbourne","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/news\/cost-of-living-in-melbourne\/","title":{"rendered":"Cost of Living in Melbourne for Students: 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In general, studying in Melbourne is rather expensive. On average, the cost of living in Melbourne<\/strong> is around AUD 1,500 to 2,800 per month<\/strong>. However, compared to Sydney\u2019s cost of living<\/strong><\/a>, it can be cheaper for those who live in shared flats and eat out regularly.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this guide, you will find all relevant information about the cost of living in Melbourne for students<\/strong>: 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Average Monthly\u00a0Student Expenses\u00a0in Melbourne\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On average, the cost of living in Melbourne for students<\/strong> can range between AUD 1,500 to AUD 2,800<\/strong>, 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the following table, there is an estimate of monthly student expenditures: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expense Category<\/strong> <\/td>Average Monthly Cost (AUD)<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Rent <\/td>600 \u2013 1,200 <\/td><\/tr>
Food & Groceries <\/td>300 \u2013 400  <\/td><\/tr>
Transportation <\/td>60 \u2013 120  <\/td><\/tr>
Utilities <\/td>50 \u2013 100  <\/td><\/tr>
Internet & Mobile <\/td>45 \u2013 70  <\/td><\/tr>
Entertainment <\/td>80 \u2013 150  <\/td><\/tr>
Health & Insurance <\/td>50 \u2013 80  <\/td><\/tr>
Total Estimated Cost<\/strong> <\/td>1,500 \u2013 2,800<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Note: Students must remember these are estimated costs and may carry depending upon the individual\u2019s lifestyle and type of accommodation. You can use the <\/em>Cost of Calculator by University Living<\/em><\/strong><\/a> for better calculations.<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Student Accommodation Costs in Melbourne\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Student Accommodation in Melbourne\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The types of student accommodation in Melbourne<\/strong><\/a> 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.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation:<\/strong> 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n