On this page

  • What to include in the cost of living
  • Tips for searching for comparison

When you calculate the cost of living in Melbourne or regional Victoria you may find that the expenses are different to what you have to pay in your own country.

The Cost of Living Calculator is designed to help you think about how you spend money and to give you an estimate of how much it would cost to have the lifestyle you choose in Melbourne.

You can compare accommodation arrangements, transportation options, entertainment activities and much more.

You  can also use the Moneysmart Budget planner. This budget template enables you to: work out where your money is going; create your own custom items; change the currency.

What to include in the cost of living

Rent (or other accommodation), utilities, groceries, restaurants and transport are good places to start.

Rent and other accommodation

Tenants pay rent and also need to pay for electricity, gas, internet and cable services.

If you are sharing the rental of a property, you and the other tenants will probably split these expenses between you.

If you are living in a homestay, student accommodation or in a residential college on campus you may find that these expenses are included in your rental.

Utilities

In Australia you may hear people talking about 'utilities'. Utilities include electricity, gas, water, phone and internet.

Search tip

To check the cost of electricity and gas in Melbourne or other Victorian cities, search the internet for energy price comparison melbourne (or the name of another city in Victoria where you want to study)

For best results, view the organic search results. The sponsored results may not give an unbiased answer.

Transport and travel

Transport costs vary depending on where you live. If you travel regularly by public transport you can save money by buying monthly passes. Most universities offer easy bicycle parking. As an international student you may be eligible for a 50% discount on the price of Myki, with an iUsepass.

Read more on the iUsepass page on the PTV website.

Groceries and restaurants

If you plan to enjoy Melbourne's wonderful restaurants, include the cost of eating out in your calculations. You can keep costs low by cooking your own meals.