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Brisbane, the sun-kissed capital of Queensland, is Australia’s most popular tourist destination, and is the most biodiverse and greenest city. Specifically for students, Brisbane is a great choice for its warm climate, welcoming atmosphere and affordable cost of living. With a close proximity to the Gold Coast, and The Great Barrier Reef, this is a destination that no student can resist. The cost of living in Brisbane for international students can typically range from AUD 1,640 to AUD 3,000/INR 88,560 to 1,62,000. This number falls under the affordable category which is particularly attractive when compared to other major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Understanding these costs is essential for anyone considering a move to this dynamic city, as it allows for better financial planning and helps students and young individuals to enjoy all that Brisbane has to offer without stretching their budgets too thin.
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 Brisbane: An Overview
Brisbane is and will always be a suitable and cosy choice for every student. The cost of living in Brisbane for international students can vary significantly depending on whether they choose on-campus or off-campus housing, along with managing the utilities and living expenses that come along with it. On-campus accommodations often provide a convenient and social environment but may come at a higher price. In contrast, off-campus options can offer more privacy and flexibility, often at a lower cost. The table below will give students an overview on the living expenses in Brisbane for international students:
Cost Of Food In Brisbane
Being a country that surrounds various water bodies, the availability of seafood will be on the high. Restaurants, cafes and pubs in Brisbane cater to a wide variety of cuisines, ranging through different prices and experiences it offers to the student. The cost of food in Brisbane can be anywhere from AUD 15 to AUD 200 which is INR 800 to 10,600. These prices give the student an accurate picture of the expenses they should keep aside for dining experiences every month.
| Food Item | Cost (AUD) | Cost (INR) |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $15 – $30 | ₹800 – ₹1,600 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | $80 – $200 | ₹4,250 – ₹10,600 |
| McMeal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | $15 – $17 | ₹800 – ₹900 |
Cost of Groceries
The cost of groceries in Brisbane reflects the choices made by the students when it comes to creating their weekly meals. Budgeting and advance planning your day to day activities as per their lifestyle is crucial for your daily supermarket runs. The table below reflects a range of prices for essential items: Students can, however, save more by using coupons which they can collect over a period of time.
| Grocery Item | Price Range (AUD) | Price Range (INR) |
| Milk (1 liter) | 1 – 4 | 84 – 211 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 2 – 7 | 124 – 344 |
| Rice (1 kg) | 1 – 4 | 95 – 211 |
| Eggs (12) | 4 – 9 | 238 – 476 |
| Local Cheese (1 kg) | 8 – 22 | 475 – 1,168 |
| Chicken Fillets (1 kg) | 9 – 17 | 505 – 900 |
| Beef Round (1 kg) | 12 – 30 | 635 – 1,585 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 3 – 7 | 186 – 344 |
| Bananas (1 kg) | 3 – 6 | 159 – 316 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | 2 – 10 | 153 – 476 |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | 3 – 8 | 159 – 422 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | 2 – 5 | 106 – 265 |
| Onions (1 kg) | 2 – 4 | 106 – 211 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 2 – 4 | 132 – 211 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | 0 – 4 | 42 – 184 |
Brisbane: Find Your Perfect Student Home – Starts at AUD $209!
Cost of Transportation In Brisbane
Transportation in Brisbane is both accessible and affordable, offering various options for getting around the city. A one-way ticket for local transport typically costs around AUD 0 to AUD 5/INR 26 to 265, making it an economical choice for occasional travellers. For those who rely on public transport more regularly, a monthly pass is available at a standard price of AUD 30 to AUD 240/INR 1,590 to 12,600, providing significant savings for daily commuters.
| Transportation Item | Price Range (AUD) | Price Range (INR) |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 0 – 5 | 26 – 265 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 30 – 240 | 1,590 – 12,600 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | 3 – 6 | 164 – 316 |
| Taxi (1 km, Normal Tariff) | 2 – 3 | 121 – 159 |
Cost Of Utilities
Brisbane living cost comes with its own set of utility costs that are essential for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. From electricity and water to mobile phone plans and internet services, understanding these monthly expenses is crucial for effective budgeting. Being comfortable within the 4 walls of your house, is not just a roof on top, but the amenities that come with it that makes living worthwhile. Below is a breakdown of the average monthly utility expenses in Brisbane, providing insight into what students can expect.
| Utility Item | Price Range (AUD) | Price Range (INR) |
| Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | 130 – 391 | 6,900 – 20,800 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 19 – 70 | 1,050 – 3,700 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 69 – 100 | 3,650 – 5,300 |
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 |
Brisbane being an open city surrounded by beaches and spaces that make opting for a picnic and playing fun activities at minimal distance. The options for fitness include various gymnasiums, skating parks, tennis courts, swimming pools and more a thrilling experience. Similarly, hitting the theatres and catching the most recent blockbuster with your friends adds to the leisure aspect of living in this city. The pie-chart below provides the cost of leisure and fitness in Brisbane for students:
Cost Of Education
Education in Brisbane is 6-fold, meaning it houses top 6 universities that provide high-end quality education, leading students to attract high-paying jobs in any field of their choice. These universities are known for their academic excellence and research opportunities. Understanding the costs associated with these programmes is essential for prospective students as they plan their future. Below is a table highlighting the top universities in Brisbane, their offered master’s programmes, and the tuition fees associated with it.
| University Name | Top Master’s Programmes | Tuition Fees (AUD) |
| University of Queensland | Master of Business Administration | 41,770 |
| Master of Engineering | ||
| Queensland University of Technology | Master of Creative Industries | 30,000 |
| Master of Public Health | ||
| Griffith University | Master of International Business | 30,000 |
| Master of Social Work | ||
| Australian Catholic University | Master of Education | 14,500 |
| Master of Arts | ||
| Bond University | Master of Laws | 36,000 |
| Master of Psychology | ||
| Central Queensland University | Master of Information Technology | 25,000 |
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!
Minimum Wage In Brisbane Vs Other Places
As of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Brisbane, Australia, is set at AUD 24.10/INR 1,310 per hour, which translates to approximately AUD 915.90/INR 49,458 per week for a standard 38-hour workweek. This rate reflects a significant increase aimed at addressing cost-of-living pressures and ensuring fair compensation for workers nationwide. In comparison, other regions may have different minimum wage rates based on local laws and economic conditions. For instance, the minimum wage in Brisbane is higher than that of many other cities globally, reflecting Australia’s commitment to providing a living wage for its workforce.
FAQs
Is it expensive to live in Brisbane?
Living in Brisbane is generally considered more affordable compared to other major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. While the cost of living can vary based on lifestyle and accommodation choices, a single person typically faces monthly expenses ranging from AUD 2,500 to AUD 3,000.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Brisbane?
To live comfortably in Brisbane, a single person should aim for an annual salary of at least AUD 75,000. At the same time, a family of four would need around AUD 130,000 to cover living expenses adequately. This allows for a balanced lifestyle that includes housing, utilities, and leisure activities without financial strain.
How much money do I need to move to Brisbane?
To move to Brisbane, you should budget approximately AUD 5,500 to AUD 10,500 for a full household relocation, depending on the distance and volume of belongings. Additionally, consider costs for removalist services, which can range from AUD 300 to AUD 1,960 based on the size of your home and specific needs.
Is Brisbane less expensive than Sydney?
Yes, Brisbane is generally less expensive than Sydney, with living costs averaging about 10% lower. Monthly expenses in Brisbane are approximately AUD 2,363 compared to AUD 2,623 in Sydney, primarily due to significantly higher rent prices in Sydney, which are about 52% more expensive.
Is it worth living in Brisbane?
Living in Brisbane is often considered worthwhile due to its high quality of life, with 92% of residents reporting satisfaction compared to other major Australian cities. The city’s affordable living costs, vibrant community, and abundant outdoor activities make it an attractive option for both locals and newcomers.
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