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Perth, the vibrant capital of Western Australia, is a haven for students seeking a high-quality education amidst a stunning backdrop of beaches, parks, and a thriving cultural scene. Nestled within the vast natural beauty of Western Australia, Perth combines the tranquility of its serene white-sand beaches with the vibrancy of bustling art galleries, historic neighborhoods, and exciting events.
This blog explores the average cost of living in Perth for students covering key expenses, helping you understand why Perth offers an affordable yet enriching student experience.
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 Perth: An Overview
With a high standard of living and laid-back lifestyle, Perth offers just the right balance between studies and experiences to you. As compared to other Australian cities, it falls on the affordable side.
The average monthly cost of living in Perth is around AUD 3,000 to AUD 4,000, which translates to INR 163,938 to INR 218,584 including rent, food, transportation, and utilities. The further breakdown of expected costs can be understood in the table below:
| Expense Category | AUD Range | INR Range |
| On-Campus Accommodation | AUD 640 – 1,000 | INR 35,200 – 55,000 |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | AUD 352 – 1,200 | INR 19,360 – 66,000 |
| Groceries (Monthly) | AUD 250 – 350 | INR 13,750 – 19,250 |
| Public Transport (Monthly) | AUD 100 – 200 | INR 5,500 – 11,000 |
| Dining Out (Per Meal) | AUD 10 – 20 | INR 550 – 1,100 |
| Utilities (Monthly) | AUD 100 – 200 | INR 5,500 – 11,000 |
| Entertainment (Monthly) | AUD 50 – 200 | INR 2,750 – 11,000 |
| Total Cost (On-Campus) | AUD 1,240 – 2,200 | INR 68,200 –121,000 |
| Total Cost (Off-Campus) | AUD 1,152 – 2,250 | INR 63,360 – 123,750 |
We’ve covered the broader cost of living in Perth, but let’s break it down further, starting with a crucial component: the cost of food.
Cost Of Food In Perth:
From casual meals at inexpensive restaurants to more upscale experiences at mid-range eateries, Perth’s culinary landscape caters to all tastes and budgets. Living expenses in Perth when it comes to dining out can range from AUD 15 to 180, which in INR is 825 to 9,900.
Cooking at home is a great way to save money, with grocery costs being relatively affordable. Whether you’re enjoying a cappuccino at a beachside café or exploring the city’s best restaurants, Perth’s food scene has something for everyone.
| Food Item | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | AUD 18 – 40 | INR 990 – 2,216 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | AUD 80 – 180 | INR 4,400 – 9,900 |
| McMeal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | AUD 15 – 18 | INR 825 – 990 |
To further refine our understanding of food and living expenses in Perth, let’s shift our focus from prepared meals to the cost of groceries in Perth.
Cost Of Groceries In Perth:
Grocery shopping contributes tremendously when it comes to living expenses in Perth. This Australian city offers a wide range of options, from bustling markets to modern supermarkets, making it easy to find fresh produce and staples at affordable prices. Perth’s grocery stores offer a wide range of local specialties and international ingredients to suit diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Beyond food, another significant portion of your budget will be dedicated to getting around. Let’s now explore the cost of transportation in Perth.
Cost Of Transportation In Perth:
The public transport network includes buses, trains, and ferries, with options for one-way tickets or monthly passes. In general, the cost of living in Perth for international students can fare anywhere between AUD 2 to 217, translating to INR 137 to 11,970. Students and frequent commuters can benefit from using a SmartRider card, which automatically caps fares at a two-zone rate, ensuring cost-effectiveness. Additionally, initiatives like free public transport on Sundays and during certain periods enhance the affordability of getting around Perth.
Getting around is important, but so is keeping your home comfortable. Let’s now discuss the cost of utilities in Perth.
Cost Of Utilities:
Cost of Living in Perth involves managing various utility costs, which can vary based on lifestyle and accommodation choices. While these costs can add up, Perth’s overall cost of living remains relatively affordable compared to other major Australian cities.
Students and residents can manage their living expenses in Perth by choosing cost-effective plans and being mindful of energy consumption. However, if you book through UniAcco, you wouldn’t have to worry about extra costs, for our prices are all-inclusive of the utilities.
| Utility Type | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Basic Utilities (85m2 Apartment) | AUD 150 – 400 | INR 8,250 – 22,000 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan | AUD 20 – 70 | INR 1,100 – 3,850 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data) | AUD 70 – 115 | INR 3,850 – 6,325 |
From necessary utilities, we’ll now transition to the costs associated with enjoying your free time: the cost of leisure and fitness in Perth.
Perth: Find Your Perfect Student Home – Starts at AUD $240/week!
Cost Of Leisure and Fitness in Perth:
From fitness clubs to outdoor sports like tennis, there are plenty of options to stay active and engaged. The city’s beautiful parks and beaches also provide free or low-cost spaces for recreation. For those who enjoy cinema, Perth has a range of theaters showing international releases at affordable prices. The living expenses in Perth can range anywhere from AUD 15 to AUD 90, which converts to INR 825 to 4,950. Whether you’re into fitness, sports, or entertainment, Perth’s leisure activities are designed to enhance your lifestyle without breaking the bank.
| Activity | AUD Range | INR Range |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | AUD 35 – 90 | INR 1,925 – 4,950 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | AUD 15 – 35 | INR 825 – 1,925 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | AUD 20 – 28 | INR 1,100 – 1,540 |
Let’s further transition to the living expenses in Perth associated with academic pursuits: the cost of education.
Cost Of Education in Perth:
Perth, the vibrant capital of Western Australia, is renowned for its high-quality educational institutions, making it an attractive destination for international students. The city is home to several world-class universities, including the University of Western Australia, Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, and Murdoch University. These institutions offer a wide range of programmes across various disciplines, from engineering and business to arts and sciences.
| University | Popular Programmes | Approximate Tuition Fees (AUD) |
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | Agriculture, Dentistry, Geology, Psychology, Engineering, Law | 30,000 – 45,000 |
| Curtin University | Mineral and Mining Engineering, Hospitality, Nursing, Psychology, IT | 28,000 – 40,000 |
| Edith Cowan University (ECU) | Engineering, Medical Sciences, Occupational Therapy, Computing | 25,000 – 35,000 |
| Murdoch University | Allied Science, Business, Criminology, Engineering, Law | 24,000 – 34,000 |
| University of Notre Dame | Business, Medicine, Law, Physiotherapy, Nursing | 28,000 – 40,000 |
With education expenses in mind, let’s explore how wages compare, starting with the minimum wage in Perth vs. other cities.
Minimum Wage in Perth vs. Other Cities:
The minimum wage in Australia is uniform across all states, including Western Australia where Perth is located. As of July 1, 2024, the national minimum wage is AUD 24.10 per hour or AUD 915.90 per week for a full-time worker. This rate applies equally in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and other major cities.
Perth is an ideal destination for professionals seeking excellent job opportunities – and hence proves its an ideal place for students to settle and grow during their time here.
With exceptional student accommodations such as UniAcco, you can live an even more comfortable life, letting you explore your career options with ease. Don’t wait on snagging great deals, and book at your earliest.
FAQs
1. What salary do you need to live in Perth?
To live comfortably in Perth, a salary of around AUD 80,000 per year is typical for full-time workers, which is slightly below the national average but offset by the lower cost of living. This amount covers essential expenses such as housing, utilities, and transportation.
2. Is food expensive in Perth?
Food in Perth is moderately priced compared to other major Australian cities. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around AUD 15 to AUD 40, while groceries like milk (AUD 1.69 per liter) and bread (AUD 2.51 for 500g) are relatively affordable.
3. Is it expensive to live in Perth?
Living expenses in Perth for international students are considered expensive compared to many other Australian cities, primarily due to housing costs. However, it remains more affordable than cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The average monthly cost for a single person is around AUD 3,620, which includes accommodation.
4. Is Perth a good place for Indians?
Perth is a welcoming city for Indians, offering a high standard of living, affordable costs compared to other major Australian cities, and a growing Indian expat community. The city provides numerous cultural and social opportunities, making it easier for Indians to integrate and feel at home.
5. How much is the water bill in Perth?
In Perth, the average quarterly water bill is around AUD 204, which translates to about AUD 816 per year. Water charges are based on a tiered system, with prices ranging from AUD 2.002 per kiloliter for the first 150 kL to AUD 4.990 per kiloliter for usage over 500 kL.
With this detailed breakdown on the cost of living in Perth for students, we hope you got an understanding of where your expenses could go. If you need more such information on the cost of living in different cities of Australia, the links below will be of use to you:
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