City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Melbourne vs London — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Melbourne
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 61.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Melbourne.
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Melbourne | London | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $888 | $906 | $18 |
| Groceries | $216 | $171 | +$45 |
| Dining Out | $135 | $136 | $1 |
| Transportation | $51 | $46 | +$5 |
| Utilities | $77 | $105 | $28 |
| Other / Misc | $133 | $136 | $3 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Melbourne
$1,500
per month
London equivalent
$1,767
per month
You'd need $1,767/mo in London to match $1,500/mo in Melbourne.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Melbourne on $1,500/month?
Living in Melbourne on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$888 to rent, $216 to groceries, $135 to dining.
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
In London, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $906 rent, $171 groceries, $136 dining.
Is Melbourne or London cheaper?
Melbourne is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: Melbourne 61.9 vs London 72.9 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Melbourne worth in London?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Melbourne equals ~$1,767/mo in London using COL adjustment.