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Sydney, the vibrant capital of New South Wales, is a magnet for international students, offering a unique blend of stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, and world-class universities. However, beneath its picturesque facade, Sydney is also known for being one of Australia’s most expensive cities. For students, understanding the cost of living in Sydney requires careful planning, from securing affordable accommodation to managing daily living expenses in Sydney. Whether you’re drawn to its cosmopolitan lifestyle or academic excellence, Sydney promises an unforgettable experience for those prepared to make the most of it.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
Cost Of Living In Sydney: An Overview
Sydney offers a chirpy lifestyle with diverse cultural experiences, academic opportunities, and a wide range of accommodation options. Students can choose between on-campus and off-campus living, each with its own set of expenses and benefits that will considerably impact the cost of living in Sydney for students.
On-campus living provides convenience and security, while off-campus options offer more independence and flexibility. These living expenses in Sydney vary widely based on lifestyle choices and personal preferences.
| Expense Category (Monthly) | AUD Range | INR Range |
| On-Campus Accommodation | 383 – 685 | 21,142 – 37,675 |
| Off-Campus Accommodation (Shared) | 1,900 – 2,950 | 104,500 – 162,350 |
| Food (Eating Out) | 160 – 480 | 8,800 – 26,400 |
| Groceries | 220 – 800 | 12,100 – 44,000 |
| Transportation | 220 – 400 | 12,100 – 22,000 |
| Clothes | 50 – 100 | 2,750 – 5,500 |
| Entertainment | 75 – 600 | 4,125 – 33,000 |
| Total On-Campus Costs | 1,500 – 2,500 | 82,500 – 137,500 |
| Total Off-Campus Costs | 2,500 – 3,600 | 137,500 – 198,000 |
Cost Of Food In Sydney:
Sydney’s restaurants are renowned for their creativity and quality, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage. The cost of food in Sydney ranges from AUD 14 to 190, which converts to INR 770 to 10,450.
| Restaurant Type | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 15 – 50 | 825 – 2,750 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 80 – 190 | 4,400 – 10,450 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | 14 – 18 | 770 – 990 |
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite at a casual café or a luxurious dinner at a fine dining restaurant, Sydney has something for everyone. The city’s culinary landscape is dotted with iconic spots like the Sydney CBD, where you can find everything from seafood to Asian-inspired cuisine, impacting the living expenses in Sydney.
Cost Of Groceries In Sydney:
The cost of living in Sydney is highly impacted by the cost of groceries. Sydney markets offer a varied and exotic selection of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats and dairy. The city’s supermarkets are well-stocked with both local and international goods, catering to the diverse tastes of its multicultural community. Despite recent price increases in the living expenses in Sydney, the city remains a great place to explore different cuisines and cooking styles.
| Grocery Item | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Milk (1 liter) | 1 – 4 | 82 – 220 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 2 – 6 | 148 – 330 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 2 – 7 | 119 – 385 |
| Eggs (12) | 5 – 9 | 275 – 528 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 10 – 39 | 550 – 2,145 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 9 – 19 | 495 – 1,045 |
| Beef Round (1kg) | 14 – 30 | 770 – 1,650 |
| Apples (1kg) | 3 – 6 | 165 – 330 |
| Banana (1kg) | 3 – 7 | 165 – 385 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 2 – 9 | 110 – 544 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 4 – 9 | 220 – 495 |
| Potato (1kg) | 2 – 5 | 137 – 275 |
| Onion (1kg) | 2 – 5 | 137 – 275 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 3 – 5 | 165 – 247 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 0 – 4 | 44 – 220 |
Sydney: Find Your Perfect Student Home – Starts at AUD $197/week!
Cost Of Transportation In Sydney:
Sydney’s transportation network is well-organised and extensive, allowing easy access to all parts of the city. Students often rely on public transport, which includes affordable options like Opal cards for buses and trains. The cost of transportation in Sydney can range anywhere from AUD 3 to 233, which converts to INR 165 to 12,815. For those who prefer a more personalised experience, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, though they come at a higher cost. The city’s scenic ferry rides are also popular for commuting, offering a unique perspective on Sydney’s iconic landmarks.
| Transportation Type | AUD Range | INR Range |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 4 – 8 | 220 – 482 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 195 – 233 | 10,760 – 12,815 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 5 – 10 | 275 – 550 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | 3 – 8 | 165 – 440 |
Cost Of Utilities In Sydney:
The living expense in Sydney makes up for a portion of the utility costs that vary significantly based on factors like apartment size, usage patterns, and service providers. For students and residents alike, understanding these costs is crucial for budgeting. However, if you’re a student booking through UniAcco, you won’t have to worry about additional charges, as these costs come included in your student accommodation, making the cost of living in Sydney for students comparatively affordable.
| Utility Type | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 184 – 600 | 10,161 – 33,000 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 20 – 80 | 1,100 – 4,400 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 60 – 98 | 3,300 – 5,390 |
Cost Of Sports and Leisure In Sydney:
The cost of sports and leisure is a major factor that contributes to the living expenses in Sydney for international students. Sydney is known for its outdoor lifestyle, with numerous parks and beaches that invite residents to stay active. Fitness clubs are popular among those who prefer a more structured workout environment, while tennis courts are available for those who enjoy racquet sports. For entertainment, Sydney’s cinemas offer the latest international releases, providing a great way to unwind.
| Activity Type | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 40 – 150 | 2,200 – 8,250 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 20 – 50 | 1,100 – 2,750 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 20 – 30 | 1,100 – 1,650 |
Cost Of Education:
Sydney is home to several prestigious universities that attract students from around the globe. The city offers a diverse range of academic programmes, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, across various fields such as business, engineering, arts, and sciences. While the cost of education can be substantial, the quality of education and career opportunities make it a worthwhile investment for many students.
| University | Notable Programmes | Tuition Fees (AUD) |
| The University of Sydney | Business, Engineering, Law, Medicine | $45,000 – $61,000 |
| The University of New South Wales | Business, Engineering, Science, Arts & Design | $42,000 – $87,000 |
| The University of Technology Sydney | Business, Engineering, IT, Health Sciences | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Macquarie University | Business, Arts, Science, Engineering | $30,000 – $55,000 |
| Australian Catholic University | Education, Nursing, Business, Arts | $25,000 – $45,000 |
Minimum Wage In Sydney Vs Other Cities:
The minimum wage in Sydney, as in the rest of Australia, is set at AUD 24.10 per hour or AUD 915.90 per week as of July 1, 2024, and this rate applies uniformly across the country. This means that Sydney does not have a different minimum wage compared to other cities in Australia. However, the cost of living in Australia can vary significantly between cities, impacting how far the minimum wage stretches in terms of purchasing power.
Comparison with Other Cities
- Cost of Living: While the minimum wage is the same nationwide, the cost of living varies between cities. Sydney is one of the more premium cities in Australia, with higher costs for housing, transportation, and other living expenses compared to cities like Adelaide or Hobart.
- Regional Differences: Although the minimum wage is uniform, regional differences in the cost of living can affect the standard of living for workers. For instance, workers in Sydney might need to allocate a larger portion of their income to housing compared to those in Perth or Brisbane.
- Industry-specific Wages: Some industries may have higher wages due to specific awards or agreements, but these are not city-specific. Instead, they apply across the entire industry nationwide.
The cost of living in Sydney for students can be slightly on the higher end as compared to other cities in Australia. A breakdown of the living expenses in Sydney for international students will be useful to you, helping you navigate your student life successfully. Living in Sydney can be an experience and highly valuable in terms of receiving quality higher education and shaping you into the individual you need to be in the future.
Sydney life is definitely the one to beat, but with student accommodations available on UniAcco, your experience will be worthwhile. Our stays are situated at the top spots around the city, promising you a first-hand view of every happening event across the city. Don’t wait too long, book your stay now!
FAQs
1. What is the cost of living in Sydney for Indian students?
The cost of living in Sydney for Indian students typically ranges from AUD 2,500 to AUD 3,600 per month, covering expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities. This translates to approximately INR 137,500 to INR 198,000 per month. The Australian Government requires international students to demonstrate access to at least AUD 29,710 annually for living expenses.
2. How much is student rent in Sydney?
Student rent in Sydney varies significantly based on accommodation type. Living expenses in Sydney for international students in the way of shared apartments typically cost between AUD 1,900 and AUD 2,950 per month, while single rooms range from AUD 2,350 to AUD 3,300 per month.
3. How much money do I need to live comfortably in Sydney?
To live comfortably in Sydney, a student typically needs around AUD 85,000 annually, which translates to about AUD 7,083 per month. This amount covers living expenses in Sydney for international students such as accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment.
4. How much does it cost to live in Sydney for a month?
The monthly cost of living in Sydney for students is approximately AUD 5,209, excluding accommodation, which can add another AUD 1,350 to AUD 3,300 per month. This totals between AUD 6,559 and AUD 8,509 per month.
5. What is the most affordable way to live in Sydney?
The most affordable way to live in Sydney involves opting for shared accommodation in outer suburbs like Faulconbridge or Burwood, where rents can be as low as AUD 400 to AUD 450 per week for a one-bedroom apartment.
With this article, we hope we could answer most of your questions regarding the cost of living in Sydney. If you have any more questions regarding this stunning city, we recommend you check out the blogs below:
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