Australia
Cost of Living in Melbourne
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 61.9Rent: 46.6Groceries: 79.3Restaurant: 69.8
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$2,207/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$3,118/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$3,862/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $2,072 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $1,546 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $441 |
| Restaurant Meal | $23 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $104 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $156 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Melbourne?
Compare Melbourne with other cities at specific budget levels:
Other Cities in Australia
Explore More
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Melbourne?
A minimal monthly budget in Melbourne is approximately $2,207, a typical budget is $3,118, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $3,862 per month.
How much is rent in Melbourne?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Melbourne city center costs approximately $2,072/month. Outside the center, expect around $1,546/month.
Is Melbourne expensive compared to New York?
Melbourne's COL+Rent Index is 61.9 compared to New York's 100, meaning Melbourne is about 38% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Melbourne?
Monthly groceries in Melbourne cost approximately $441. The city's Groceries Index is 79.3 (NYC = 100).