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Brisbane is one of the cheapest major cities in Australia for students to live in, and your money can go further with careful budgeting. Calculating the cost of living in Brisbane Australia, whether you are a domestic or foreign student, will help you make the most of your university experience in the capital of Queensland. You will need to pay for all sorts of expenses in your budget, from essentials such as food and rent to less important expenses such as dining out. This guide for international students on the cost of living in Brisbane Australia will help you crunch the numbers.
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 |
What Is The Cost of Living In Brisbane For Students?
Brisbane is an inexpensive city, but you still need to prepare to make sure you have enough money to spend on studying and living. The monthly cost of living in Brisbane for students ranges between AU$1,728 and AU$2,448 approximately. Depending on your student accommodation in Brisbane, your requirements, your lifestyle, and how much you spend, your overall living expenses can vary. This list will give you a clearer understanding of the cost of living in Brisbane for international students:
Cost Of Food And Groceries
A single person can estimate their monthly costs for groceries range from AU$400 to $450. This covers basic items and pantry staples from supermarkets like Woolworths and Coles. Brisbane offers a range of food options with a wide selection of international cuisines, with meals at Asian or Indian restaurants.
| Particulars | (Prices AU$) |
| Milk (regular, 1 litre) | 2 – 3 |
| Fresh White Bread Loaf (500g) | 2 – 4 |
| White Rice (1kg) | 2 – 3 |
| Eggs (regular, pack of 12) | 4 – 7 |
| Chicken Breast Fillets (1kg) | 12 – 13 |
| Apples (1kg) | 3 – 5 |
| Bananas (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Potatoes (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Onions (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 3 – 4 |
| Bottled Water (1.5 litres) | 1 -2 |
| Meal at a Budget-Friendly Restaurant | 20 – 25 |
| Three-Course Meal for Two at a Mid-Range Restaurant | 100 – 120 |
| Combo Meal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent) | 15 – 18 |
Brisbane: Find Your Perfect Student Home – Starts at AUD $209!
Cost Of Transportation
Brisbane offers a well-connected and efficient transportation network, making it convenient for residents, students, and visitors to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Brisbane’s extensive network of bike paths and pedestrian-friendly areas also encourages sustainable commuting options. Whether travelling to work, university, or exploring the city’s beautiful neighbourhoods, Brisbane’s varied transportation choices cater to diverse needs while offering a reliable and accessible way to get around.
| Particulars | ( Prices AU$) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 3 – 4 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 150 – 180 |
Cost Of Utilities
When planning your budget as a student in Brisbane, utilities are a key part of your monthly expenses. These typically include electricity, water, gas, and internet services, with costs varying based on your living arrangement. Student accommodations, such as those offered by UniAcco, may include these in the rent, but if you are renting privately, it’s important to account for these additional charges. Below is a breakdown of the possible utility bill costs to help you better manage your budget.
| Particulars | ( Prices AU$) |
| Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, and Garbage) for an 85m² Apartment | 200 – 300 |
| Monthly Mobile Phone Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 30 – 35 |
| High-Speed Internet (60 Mbps or higher, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 75 – 80 |
Cost Of Leisure and Entertainment
Brisbane offers plenty of options for leisure and entertainment, making it easy for students to balance their academic life with fun and relaxation. Students can also take advantage of discounts at cinemas, gyms, and local events. Whether you are exploring the bustling South Bank or attending music festivals, Brisbane provides diverse and affordable entertainment options to fit any student budget.
| Particulars | (Prices AU$) |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 75 – 80 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 25 – 30 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 15- 20 |
Top Universities In Brisbane For International Students
Brisbane is home to some of Australia’s top universities, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking high-quality education in this city. Known for its world-class academic programmes, research facilities, and strong industry connections, Brisbane’s universities offer a wide range of courses across various fields. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies, Brisbane provides an ideal environment for both academic success and personal growth.
| University Name | QS Ranking | Average Tuition Fees (AU$) |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | Ranked 40th | $35,000 |
| Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | Ranked 213th | $30,000 |
| Griffith University | Ranked 251-300 | $30,000 |
| Federation University Australia | Ranked 601-800 | $25,000 |
Top Jobs Post-Graduation in Brisbane
Brisbane offers a diverse range of job opportunities across various sectors, making it an attractive destination for international students. Here’s an overview of the job landscape.
| Job Title | Average Salary (AU$) |
| Mining Engineer | 140,000 |
| Lawyer | 91,900 |
| Consultant | 95,000 |
| Project Manager | 95,000 |
| Engineering Graduate | 70,000 |
| Healthcare Professional | 65,200 |
| IT Specialist | 66,700 |
How To Save Money As A Student In Brisbane?
Saving money as a student in Brisbane can seem to be challenging due to the higher living costs and several associated expenses. However, with some careful planning and mindful spending habits, there can certainly be scope for savings. Here are some helpful and practical tips:
- Go for purpose-built student accommodations as they are inclusive of the utility bills in the property pricing which makes them cost-effective and convenient.
- Travel through public transportation to reach your university campus and explore areas within and around the city.
- Leverage your university library resources such as textbooks and online study materials.
- Always ask for student discounts and deals at restaurants, retail outlets and gym memberships.
- Avoid eating out frequently and opt for home-cooked meals to adapt to a healthy lifestyle along with maximising savings.
Brisbane offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major Australian cities, making it an attractive option for students. With reasonable accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses, students can comfortably manage their budgets depending on their lifestyle choices. Whether you are looking to save or enjoy what the city has to offer, Brisbane provides a balanced, student-friendly environment. Make sure to plan your finances wisely, and you will find that living and studying in Brisbane can be a great experience!
FAQs
Is Brisbane good for international students?
Brisbane is ideal for international students looking for a low-cost study location. Brisbane is also a safe and welcoming city with an easy-to-use public transportation system, which makes it easier for students to travel around the city and to their university.
Is it expensive to live in Brisbane?
Brisbane’s cost of living is generally lower than that of other major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. However, expenses can vary depending on factors like location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices.
What’s a good salary in Brisbane?
A good salary in Brisbane is typically around AUD 74,000 per year, which is enough to comfortably support a sustainable lifestyle in the city.
Is Brisbane or Sydney more expensive?
Brisbane is about 10% cheaper than Sydney, with average monthly expenses around AU$ 2,363 in Brisbane compared to AU$ 2,623 in Sydney.
What is a liveable wage in Brisbane?
A liveable wage in Brisbane typically ranges from $400 to $750 per week, depending on individual living circumstances and lifestyle.
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