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Wollongong, a coastal city in New South Wales, Australia, is a popular destination for students from around the world. The city is home to several universities, including the University of Wollongong, which is one of the top universities in Australia. Living in Wollongong can be an exciting and enriching experience for students. However, it’s important to be aware of the cost of living in Wollongong Australia.
In terms of cost of living, Wollongong is considered to be an affordable city compared to other major Australian cities. We will explore living costs in Wollongong for international students such as accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare, and top universities in this blog.
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 Wollongong – An Overview
The average cost of living for international students in Wollongong is approximately AUD 2,195, which includes rent and other essential expenses. This figure is significantly lower than in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, making Wollongong an attractive option for students.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (AUD) |
| On-Campus Accommodation | 808 |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | 680 |
| Utilities | 127 |
| Internet | 55 |
| Groceries | 300 |
| Transportation | 120 |
| Entertainment & Dining | 200 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | 100 |
| Total Living Expense | 2,195 |
Cost Of Groceries
When considering the cost of living in Wollongong, one of the key factors for international students is the price of groceries. Understanding the typical costs of essential food items can help students budget effectively and make informed choices about their dietary needs. Wollongong offers a range of grocery options, from local markets to larger supermarkets, ensuring that residents can find both affordable and quality products. Below is a table detailing the average prices of common grocery items in Wollongong:
| Grocery Item | Price Range (AUD) |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | 1.57 – 4 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 2 – 7 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 1.50 – 5 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 4 – 10 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 10 – 30 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 10 – 18 |
| Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 15 – 30 |
| Apples (1kg) | 3.50 – 6.50 |
| Banana (1kg) | 3 – 7 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 2.50 – 8.50 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 3 – 13 |
| Potato (1kg) | 2 – 5 |
| Onion (1kg) | 2 – 4.25 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 2 – 5 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 0.82 – 4.69 |
Cost Of Transportation In Wollongong, Australia
Transportation in Wollongong is both convenient and affordable, making it accessible for students and residents alike. The city offers a well-connected public transport system that includes buses and trains, as well as taxi services for more direct travel. This variety of transportation options allows students to navigate the city easily while keeping their commuting costs manageable.
| Transportation Item | Average Price (AUD) | Price Range (AUD) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 3.80 | |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 72.15 | |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | 2.60 | 2.50 – 5.00 |
Cost of Leisure and Transportation In Wollongong Australia
Engaging in sports and leisure activities is an essential part of student life in Wollongong, contributing to both physical health and social well-being. The city offers a variety of options for fitness enthusiasts, from gyms to recreational facilities, catering to different interests and budgets. These activities not only promote a healthy lifestyle but also provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers.
| Activity/Facility | Price Range (AUD) |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 72 – 200 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 18 – 26 |
Cost Of Utilities In Wollongong Australia
Utilities play a vital role in the overall cost of living for students in Wollongong. These essential services, which include electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage collection, mobile phone plans, and internet access, contribute significantly to monthly expenses. Understanding the typical costs associated with these utilities is crucial for effective budgeting and financial planning. With various options available, residents can choose services that best fit their needs and lifestyles, ensuring a comfortable living environment while pursuing their studies or careers in this vibrant coastal city.
| Utility/Service | Price Range (AUD) |
| Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 220 – 434 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 24 – 70 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data) | 70 – 114 |
Cost Of Studying In Wollongong
The cost of studying in Wollongong, Australia, is an important consideration for international students looking to pursue their postgraduate education. The University of Wollongong (UOW) is the primary institution in the area, offering a diverse range of master’s programmes across various disciplines. Tuition fees can vary significantly depending on the programme and its duration. Below is a table summarising the available master’s programmes at UOW along with their respective tuition fees.
| University | Master’s Programme | Tuition Fees (AUD) |
| University of Wollongong | Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 48,154 |
| Master of Science in Project Management | 31,050 | |
| Master of Information Technology | 31,584 | |
| Master of Applied Finance | 50,544 | |
| Master of Clinical Exercise Physiology | 52,704 | |
| Master of Earth & Environmental Sciences | 69,312 | |
| Master of Nursing International | 64,320 | |
| Master of Occupational Health and Safety | 52,920 |
Minimum Wage In Wollongong Vs Other Places
The minimum wage in Wollongong is an important factor for both residents and international students, particularly when comparing it to other locations in Australia. As of 2024, the minimum hourly wage in Wollongong is approximately AUD 11, which is reflective of the broader Australian minimum wage standards. This rate is crucial for individuals entering the workforce, especially students who may seek part-time employment to support their studies and living expenses.
Visa Costs For International Students
The cost of obtaining a student visa for international students wishing to study in Australia has recently undergone a significant increase. This more than double increase in the visa fee is expected to pose financial challenges for many prospective students, particularly those from countries like India, which contributes a substantial number of students to Australian universities.
| Visa Type | Previous Fee (AUD) | New Fee (AUD) | Effective Date |
| International Student Visa | 710 | 1,600 | July 1, 2024 |
FAQs
Is it expensive to live in Wollongong?
Living in Wollongong is relatively affordable compared to larger Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne, with an average monthly cost of around AUD 2,195, including rent. While it ranks among the top 38% of the most expensive cities globally, it offers a good quality of life and lower living expenses than many other urban areas in Australia.
What is the cost of living in Wollongong for international students?
The average cost of living in Wollongong for international students is approximately AUD 2,195 per month, which includes rent and other essential expenses. This cost is relatively lower compared to major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne, making Wollongong an attractive option for students seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
How much does it cost to live on-campus in Wollongong?
The cost of living on-campus in Wollongong is approximately AUD 2,061 per month for international students. This includes accommodation expenses and is slightly higher than off-campus living options, which average around AUD 1,933 per month. On-campus housing provides convenience and a supportive environment for students.
Is Wollongong cheaper than Sydney?
Yes, Wollongong is significantly cheaper than Sydney. The average cost of living in Wollongong is approximately AUD 2,195 per month, while in Sydney, it reaches about AUD 4,206 per month.
Is Wollongong an affordable city?
Wollongong is considered an affordable city compared to other major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. It ranks as the cheapest city in Australia, with lower overall living costs, making it an attractive option for students and residents seeking a balance between quality of life and affordability.
Thank you for reading about the “Cost of Living in Wollongong Australia.” If you’re interested in exploring more articles on related topics, we recommend checking out the below articles:
Top reasons to study in Australia
Wollongong: Student Housing, Close to Campus – From AUD $285/week
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