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Is Melbourne more affordable than Sydney to live?

August 3, 2023 by MySydneyDetour Leave a Comment

By MySydneyDetour

Table of Contents

  • Is Melbourne more affordable than Sydney to live?
  • Cost of Housing
  • Cost of Food
  • Cost of Entertainment
  • Conclusion

Is Melbourne more affordable than Sydney to live?

Asian family eating
Chay_Tee / Shutterstock

If you’re planning to move to Australia, one of the first things you’ll be considering is which city to live in. Sydney and Melbourne are two of the most popular choices, but which one is more affordable? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cost of living in both cities and compare them to see which one comes out on top.

Cost of Housing

Beautiful suburban home
Jaaske M / Shutterstock

Housing is one of the biggest expenses for anyone, and it’s no different in Sydney and Melbourne. However, the cost of housing in Melbourne is significantly cheaper than in Sydney. According to Numbeo, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney is AUD 2,198, while in Melbourne, it’s AUD 1,731. That’s a difference of almost AUD 500 per month. If you’re looking to buy a house, the median property price in Sydney is AUD 1.1 million, while in Melbourne, it’s AUD 795,447.

Cost of Food

Instant food can that sale in a supermarket
icosha / Shutterstock

Food is another major expense, and once again, Melbourne comes out on top. According to Numbeo, the cost of groceries in Melbourne is 9.75% cheaper than in Sydney. Eating out is also cheaper, with the average cost of a meal in a mid-range restaurant in Melbourne being AUD 80, compared to AUD 100 in Sydney.

Cost of Entertainment

Entertainment is an important part of life, and it’s good to know how much it will cost you in each city. Once again, Melbourne is the more affordable option. The cost of cinema tickets, for example, is 20% cheaper in Melbourne than in Sydney. The same goes for other forms of entertainment, such as concerts and sporting events.

See Related: Is Melbourne already bigger than Sydney?

Conclusion

In conclusion, Melbourne is more affordable than Sydney to live in. Housing, food, and entertainment are all cheaper in Melbourne, making it a more attractive option for those looking to save money. Of course, there are other factors to consider when choosing where to live, such as job opportunities, climate, and lifestyle. However, if affordability is your main concern, Melbourne is the clear winner.

If you’re planning to move to Australia, it’s important to do your research and compare the cost of living in different cities. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and choose the city that best suits your needs and budget.

Related Resources:

  • What’s the best place to go for a cheap lunch in Sydney?
  • Where can I find the best yum cha restaurant in Sydney?
  • What are the cheapest areas to live in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs?

Filed Under: Sydney Life & Culture

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