Planning to move to Melbourne? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Melbourne, Australia as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Melbourne | Australia Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €1,475 | €1,704 | -13% below avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €2,503 | €2,697 | -7% below avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €4,800 | €5,000 | -4% below avg |
| Groceries | €626 | €674 | -7% below avg |
| Transport | €150 | €161 | -7% below avg |
Get Your Australia Emigration Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost estimates, and action plan for Australia.
Get Full Report — €10Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Melbourne in 2026?
A single expat living in central Melbourne should budget approximately €2,503 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €4,800/month.
How much is rent in Melbourne for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Melbourne city centre costs around €1,475/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €1,096/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €3,245/month.
Is Melbourne expensive compared to other cities in Australia?
Melbourne has a cost index of 80% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in Australia for comparison.
Related: Australia Guide · Australia Salaries · Australia Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare Australia · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.