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Melbourne continues to be a dream destination for international students with its world-class universities, diverse culture and thriving job market. It is the 5th most student-friendly city in the world according to the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2025. Indeed, the city has a lot to offer in terms of academic and career opportunities, but the living expenses can be quite daunting for students looking to relocate here. Understanding the total cost of living in Melbourne for students is critical for budgeting. If you want to know what it takes to live as a student in this fabulous city and how to best manage your expenses, this guide is for you.
Overview Of Living Expenses In Melbourne
Various expenses, including accommodation, food, groceries and miscellaneous costs, define the cost of living in Melbourne. Students can estimate their monthly living expenses in Melbourne to be around AU$3,000- AU$3,200. However, these expenses can vary depending on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Here is a tabular representation of the same:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (AU$) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 1400 – 1500 |
| On Campus Accommodation | 1500 – 1600 |
| Transportation | 100 – 200 |
| Food | 900 – 1000 |
| Groceries | 200 – 300 |
| Entertainment | 90 – 100 |
| Clothes | 200 – 300 |
Note: The costs mentioned above may fluctuate and are subject to change.
Cost Of Tuition Fees
Tuition fees comprise a significant portion of the living expenses in Melbourne for international students pursuing higher education, as they often represent the largest expense in their academic journey. This section provides insights into the factors influencing tuition fees and tips for managing this critical aspect of education expenses.
| Level of Study | Estimated Tuition Fees (AUD) |
| Bachelor’s Degree | AUD 20,000 – AUD 50,000 |
| Master’s Degree | AUD 20,000 – AUD 60,000 |
| MBA | AUD 50,000 – AUD 130,000 |
| Doctorate | AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 |
Cost Of Student Accommodation In Melbourne
Melbourne, known for its vibrant culture and top-ranking universities, is a popular destination for students worldwide. Finding the right accommodation is critical to the student experience, with various factors influencing the overall cost.
| Type of Accommodation | Average Monthly Cost (AU$) |
| Shared Room | AU$800 – AU$2,800 |
| Private Room | AU$1,000 – AU$2,400 |
| Entire Apartment (1 Bedroom) | AU$1,700 – AU$1,800 |
| Shared Flat | AU$1,000 – AU$2,000 |
The location will have a huge impact on your accommodation costs. Before making your decision, find out about the best neighbourhoods to live in Melbourne.
Cost of Transport
Melbourne offers easy connectivity to major university campuses along with convenient transportation alternatives to travel within and around the city, including:
| Particulars | Fare (AUD) |
| Single-ride ticket (local transport) | 5 – 6 |
| Standard monthly pass | 180 – 200 |
| Taxi waiting time for 1 hour (regular rate) | 40 – 45 |
Cost of Food and Groceries
Food and groceries form a fundamental part of your monthly expenses, impacting both household budgets and lifestyle choices. Understanding the cost of living in Melbourne associated with everyday essentials like fresh produce, dairy, meats, and pantry staples is crucial for effective financial planning. A student can expect to spend around AU$280 to AU$350 monthly on basic groceries from supermarkets like Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi. Below, we have given a breakdown of the grocery costs one can expect to spend in Melbourne.
| Particulars | Costs (AUD) |
| Oranges (1kg) | 4 – 5 |
| Tomatoes (1kg) | 5 – 6 |
| Potatoes (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Onions (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 3 – 4 |
| Bottled water (1.5 litres) | 2 – 3 |
| Regular milk (1 litre) | 2 – 3 |
| Fresh white bread loaf (500g) | 2 – 3 |
| White rice (1kg) | 3 – 4 |
| Regular eggs (12) | 5 – 6 |
| Local cheese (1kg) | 10 – 12 |
| Chicken fillets (1kg) | 13 – 14 |
| Apples (1kg) | 4 – 5 |
| Bananas (1kg) | 4 – 5 |
Cost Of Fitness And Leisure
Engaging in fitness and leisure activities is essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. From gym memberships to recreational sports and entertainment, these activities enhance physical well-being, mental relaxation, and social interaction.
| Particulars | Prices (AUD) |
| Monthly Membership Fee for an Adult at a Fitness Club | 70 – 80 |
| Weekend Tennis Court Rental (1 Hour) | 20 – 25 |
| Ticket Price for an International Movie Release (1 Seat) | 24 – 26 |
How to Save Money as an International Student in Melbourne?
Saving money as a student in Melbourne requires smart financial choices and a bit of planning. Being mindful of your expenses helps you enjoy your student life without constantly worrying about your budget. Here are some key ways to cut down on the living cost in Melbourne for international students:
1. Choose Affordable Accommodation
Accommodation is the biggest Melbourne living cost for international students, so opting for shared housing can significantly reduce costs. Suburbs slightly away from the city centre often offer lower rent while still being well-connected by public transport. On-campus housing can be convenient, but comparing different options can help you find the most budget-friendly choice. Many students use online platforms to find affordable house shares or rooms for rent.
2. Use Public Transport Wisely
Public transport in Melbourne can be expensive, but students are eligible for concession cards that offer discounted fares. Monthly passes can also be a cost-effective option for those who commute frequently. Walking or cycling can further help save money, especially for short distances. The Free Tram Zone in the city centre is useful for students who live or study nearby.
3. Save on Food and Groceries
Cooking at home is always more affordable than eating out, so planning meals in advance can help cut unnecessary expenses. Shopping at budget supermarkets or local markets can provide fresh produce at lower prices. Buying in bulk, sharing groceries with housemates, and taking advantage of discounts can greatly reduce monthly food costs.
4. Find Free or Low-Cost Entertainment
Melbourne has plenty of free attractions, events, and cultural activities that students can enjoy. From exploring parks and museums to attending festivals, there are many ways to experience the city without spending much. Student discounts are also available at cinemas, concerts, and other entertainment venues, so always check before purchasing tickets.
5. Be Smart with Shopping
Shopping wisely can help save a lot of money. Opting for second-hand stores or student discounts on clothing, electronics, and textbooks can reduce costs. Many online platforms offer deals for students, so looking for discounts before making a purchase can be beneficial.
Melbourne: Find Your Perfect Student Home – Starts at AUD $230!
Working and Studying in Melbourne
Balancing work and studies can be an excellent way to manage the cost of living in Melbourne for Indian students while gaining valuable experience. In Australia, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (24 hours per week) during the semester and unlimited hours during semester breaks. This allows students to earn extra income without affecting their studies.
Best Part-Time Job Options for Students in Melbourne
Working part-time is one of the best ways for students in Melbourne to manage their average cost of living in Melbourne while gaining valuable experience. With flexible job opportunities available across various industries, students can find work that suits their schedules and skill sets.
1. Hospitality Jobs
Melbourne is known for its vibrant café and restaurant culture, making hospitality jobs widely available for students. Roles such as waiter, barista, bartender, or kitchen assistant are common and often offer flexible working hours. Many hospitality jobs allow students to earn additional income through tips and weekend penalty rates. Experience in customer service is beneficial, but many employers are willing to train new staff.
2. Retail Jobs
Working in retail is another popular option for students. Supermarkets, clothing stores, electronics retailers, and department stores frequently hire part-time employees for positions such as cashiers, sales assistants, and stock replenishers. Retail jobs help develop customer service and sales skills, which can be valuable for future careers.
3. Tutoring and Academic Support
Tutoring can be a well-paying job option if you have strong academic skills. Students can tutor school children and fellow university students or even offer online lessons. Subjects like mathematics, science, English, and foreign languages are in high demand. Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) is another option for students fluent in English.
4. Administrative and Office Jobs
Some students find part-time work in administrative roles such as receptionists, data entry clerks, or office assistants. Many universities and private companies hire students for office work, providing valuable professional experience. These jobs typically offer regular hours and involve tasks like answering phone calls, scheduling appointments, and handling documents. Strong communication and organisational skills are usually required.
5. Delivery and Ride-Share Services
With the growing popularity of food delivery apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog, many students work as delivery drivers or riders. These jobs offer flexible schedules, allowing students to work as much or as little as they want. A bicycle, motorbike, or car is usually required, and students must have the appropriate licenses and insurance.
6. Customer Service and Call Centre Jobs
Many businesses in Melbourne hire part-time customer service representatives for call centres and online support teams. These roles involve answering customer inquiries, resolving issues, and processing orders. Companies often offer training, making it a good option for students with little prior work experience. Good communication skills and a polite, professional attitude are essential for success in this field.
7. Event Staff and Promotional Work
Melbourne hosts a wide range of events, including sports matches, concerts, and festivals, which require temporary staff for roles such as ticket sales, ushering security, and food service. Promotional jobs, like handing out flyers or product sampling, are also common. These jobs are often casual, high-energy, and offer great pay for short shifts. Students can sign up with event staffing agencies or look for opportunities on job portals.
8. Internships and University Jobs
Some universities offer part-time jobs for students in roles such as library assistants, research assistants, or campus ambassadors. These jobs allow students to earn money while staying within the university environment. Internships, whether paid or unpaid, can also be a great way to gain relevant work experience in your field while completing your studies.
FAQs
1. Is Melbourne expensive to live in?
Over the years, Melbourne has become touted as among the world’s most expensive cities to live in. Only Sydney tops the list, and Melbourne comes second in the list of Australia’s most expensive cities.
2. Is Melbourne cheaper than Sydney?
Yes, Melbourne is cheaper than Sydney, which remains Australia’s most expensive city due to factors like lower housing supply in New South Wales compared to Victoria.
3. Is healthcare free in Australia?
Healthcare in Australia is partly free. Essential hospital treatments are free, but GP visits and prescriptions have charges. Some costs can be recovered through Medicare, Australia’s universal health insurance scheme.
4. Is Australia a good place to live?
Yes, Australia is a great place for students to live. It has world-class universities, a safe environment, and a high quality of life. Cities like Melbourne and Brisbane offer excellent student support services, diverse cultures, and plenty of job opportunities for part-time work.
5. What is the minimum wage in Australia?
The minimum wage in Australia is $24.10 per hour as of 1 July 2024.
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