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Cost of Living in Melbourne (2025) – Calculator Included
Monthly Melbourne Living Cost Calculator
Wondering about the Cost of Living Melbourne has in store for you in 2025? You're not alone. As the owner of North Removals, I've spent over two decades helping people relocate to this vibrant city, and I'm here to share what I've learned first-hand. Let’s face it – moving to a new city is a big step, especially when it comes to figuring out your finances.
In this guide, I'll break down all the key living expenses – from rent and utilities to grocery bills, nights out, and even gym memberships – so you can plan ahead with confidence. I'll also throw in some practical tips I've picked up to help you stretch your dollar further in Melbourne. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of what living in Melbourne really costs, and why I reckon it's worth every dollar.
Table of Content
» Melbourne Salaries by Sector 2025
» Melbourne Rent Costs by Profession
» Rental Costs and Crime Rates in Melbourne Suburbs
» How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Melbourne?
» Top Tips to Reduce Rent in Melbourne
» Melbourne’s Basic Product Prices : What to Expect
» Entertainment Costs in Melbourne : A Price Overview
» Gym Costs in Melbourne: Memberships and Options
» 2025 Cost of Living Comparison: Melbourne vs. Perth, Sydney, Brisbane
» Cost of Living in Melbourne FAQs
» Cost of Living in Melbourne CBD: Conclusion
Melbourne Monthly Living Cost Calculator
Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a major cultural and economic hub (finance, tech, education, healthcare, the arts – it’s all here). It generally has lower housing costs than Sydney – roughly 28% cheaper on average. While many everyday expenses in Melbourne are high, rent tends to be more affordable.
If you're planning your first apartment move, check out our essential first apartment checklist. Below, we’ll break down typical salaries and living expenses for a clear picture of Melbourne’s cost of living in 2025.
Melbourne Salaries by Sector
Melbourne’s job market offers pretty competitive wages across various industries. The average annual salary here is around $78,000 (roughly $6,500 per month), slightly lower than Sydney’s average. Actual pay varies by industry and experience. Here are typical monthly salary ranges for full-time jobs in Melbourne:
| Sector | Monthly Salary (approx.) | Example Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | $7,000 – $11,000 | Software Developers, IT Engineers |
| Healthcare | $6,000 – $9,000 | Nurses, General Practitioners |
| Finance | $6,500 – $11,000 | Accountants, Investment Managers |
| Education | $5,000 – $8,000 | Teachers, University Lecturers |
| Manufacturing | $5,000 – $8,000 | Factory Workers, Technicians |
| Services | $4,500 – $7,000 | Retail and Sales Staff, Admin Assistants |
| Construction | $6,000 – $9,500 | Tradespeople, Site Supervisors |
Melbourne Rent Costs by Profession
Housing is typically the biggest monthly expense in Melbourne. Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around $550 per week ($2,400 monthly), lower than Sydney’s ~$720 per week. Here’s how much of their salary some professions typically spend on rent:
| Profession | Monthly Salary | Monthly Rent | % of Salary on Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Worker | ~$5,600 (40 h/week @ $35/h) | $2,600 (approx. rent for a one-bedroom) | ~46% |
| Traffic Controller | ~$5,200 (40 h/week @ $32.5/h) | $2,600 | ~50% |
| Waiter/Barista | ~$4,800 (40 h/week @ $30/h) | $2,600 | ~54% |
| Registered Nurse | ~$6,400 (40 h/week @ $40/h) | $2,600 | ~41% |
| Software Engineer (Senior) | ~$10,000 (≈$120k/year ÷ 12) | $3,300 (larger apartment or house) | ~33% |
| Engineering Manager | ~$12,000 (≈$144k/year ÷ 12) | $3,300 | ~28% |
As you can see, in Melbourne lower-income workers like waitstaff may end up spending over half of their pay on rent if living alone in the city. Middle earners (e.g. nurses or tradespeople) might spend around 40–50% of income on rent, while high earners in tech or management can comfortably spend under one-third of their salary and often opt for more expensive housing (bigger apartments or houses). Choosing to live further from the CBD or with roommates can drastically reduce these percentages.
Rental Costs and Crime Rates in Melbourne Suburbs
Melbourne’s suburban areas offer budget-friendly housing, safe neighborhoods, and an inviting lifestyle. If you’re considering a move to Melbourne, be sure to check out our Interstate Moving Checklist for a smoother transition. In this guide, you’ll find the 10 most densely populated suburbs, along with their verified rental rates and crime data.
| Suburb | Rent (AUD/week) |
Approx. Crime Rate (Incidents/100k/year) | Common Offenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abbotsford | $400 – $600 | ~150–180 | Theft, Vandalism, Vehicle Break‐ins |
| Parkville | $400 – $550 | ~120–150 | Petty Theft, Occasional Break‐ins |
| Collingwood | $450 – $650 | ~210–230 | Drugs, Theft, Property Damage |
| Carlton | $450 – $650 | ~300–350 | Assaults, Vandalism, Drug‐related |
| St Kilda | $450 – $700 | ~200–220 | Theft, Drug Offenses, Assaults |
| Fitzroy | $450 – $700 | ~330–370 | Assaults, Theft, Vehicle Break‐ins |
| Melbourne CBD | $500 – $800 | ~400–450 | Theft (pickpocketing), Assault, Property |
| South Melbourne | $500 – $750 | ~200–220 | Vandalism, Vehicle Break‐ins, Theft |
| Docklands | $520 – $850 | ~180–200 | Theft, Vehicle Break‐ins, Property Damage |
| Southbank | $520 – $850 | ~130–160 | Petty Theft, Vandalism, Occasional Break‐ins |
Want to know which are the worst suburbs in Melbourne? Check out our article to find out!
How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Melbourne?
So, what does it cost per month to live in Melbourne in 2025? It really depends on your household type and lifestyle. Below we outline typical monthly living expenses for different household situations, assuming a moderate lifestyle (not ultra-frugal but not luxury either):
| Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 3 | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $1,700–$3,000 | $2,000–$4,400 | $3,300–$5,800 | $4,400–$8,000 |
| Groceries | $350–$500 | $650–$1,150 | $1,100–$1,700 | $1,400–$2,300 |
| Entertainment | $350–$700 | $650–$1,100 | $800–$1,300 | $1,200–$2,100 |
| Transportation | $100–$220 | $220–$340 | $320–$400 | $400–$600 |
| Utilities | $320–$450 | $400–$550 | $500–$650 | $630–$750 |
So, what does it cost per month to live in Melbourne in 2025? It really depends on your household type and lifestyle. Below we outline typical monthly living expenses for different household situations, assuming a moderate lifestyle (not ultra-frugal but not luxury either):
- Single person: A single person living alone in Melbourne needs roughly $4,500–$5,000 per month to cover all expenses comfortably. This includes renting a one-bedroom apartment, groceries, transport, utilities, and some entertainment. If you’re very budget-conscious, living in a shared apartment and cooking at home, it’s possible to get by on about $2,500–$3,000 per month.
- Couple: For a couple living together, the costs are easier to share. Many expenses (rent, utilities, etc.) are split, so the per-person cost is lower than for a single person. A pair can live decently on about $5,000 per month (total, not each) if they are renting a one-bedroom and keeping to a modest budget.
- Family of 3 (couple with one child): Living as a small family raises expenses significantly. A family of three will likely need a larger space (two or three bedrooms), which means higher rent. Monthly expenses for a family of this size can be around $6,000–$7,500 in Melbourne. Additional costs to consider are childcare and education.
- Family of 4 (couple with two children): A larger family will have higher costs for housing, food, transport, and everything else. It’s common for a family of four in Melbourne to spend around $7,000–$9,000 per month in total. This assumes renting a family-sized home, owning one car, and utilising some childcare.
Overall, Melbourne is one of the most expensive cities in Australia, second only to Sydney in living costs. You will likely need a budget of around $4,000–$5,000 per month for a single, and at least $8,000+ per month for a typical family to live comfortably. And remember, if you are living in an apartment and need extra space you also should consider the Melbourne storage costs!
Tips to Reduce Rent in Melbourne
It might be a bit more expensive to live close to the CBD, but there are ways to save on housing without sacrificing too much convenience. Strategic planning can help you maintain a good quality of life in Melbourne while keeping rent under control. Here are some practical tips:
- Consider neighbourhoods near (but not in) the CBD: If you don’t mind being slightly further out, areas like as Southbank or Carlton or Docklands are good options. They are adjacent to the city and well-connected by public transport, but often offer lower rents than living right in the central business district.
- Shared rental: If you’re single or a couple looking to save, consider sharing an apartment or house with roommates. By splitting the rent and utilities, each person might only pay a few hundred dollars a week. For instance, instead of paying $2,400 a month for a one-bedroom alone, you could share a larger flat and pay maybe $800–$1,000 per month for your room – a huge reduction. Plus, group living can be a great way to meet new friends in the city.
- Negotiate rent: Don’t be afraid to talk with real estate agents or landlords when lease renewal time comes. If you’re a good tenant (always pay on time, take care of the property), you might have leverage to negotiate a slightly lower rent or at least prevent a big increase. Discussing flexible lease terms or agreeing to a longer lease might open up the possibility of a discount, or other perks like an early break clause without penalty.
- Research before moving: Knowledge is power. Use online platforms like Domain or Realestate.com.au to compare rental prices across different suburbs. Read reviews or community forums to learn about the areas.
By applying these tips, you can significantly lower your monthly rent in Melbourne. Being flexible with location and living arrangements often yields the biggest savings, while research and negotiation help ensure you’re getting the best deal possible for your situation. If you are moving soon and want to save money we highly recommend book with our offer Way Cheaper Wednesdays where you can get a 15% discount!
Melbourne’s Basic Product Prices: What to Expect
Everyday costs in Melbourne – things like groceries and dining out – are pretty much on par with other big Aussie cities. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect to pay for the basics in 2025:
- Pint of beer: At your average pub or bar, a pint of local beer costs around $10. If you’re into craft or imported stuff, expect to pay closer to $15. Fancy rooftop joints might charge even more, but $10–$12 is the norm at a casual venue.
- Coca-Cola (330ml bottle): If you’re ordering at a bar or restaurant, a small bottle of Coke might cost $6–$8 (yep, soft drinks at venues aren’t cheap!). In the supermarket, the same bottle’s around $3–$4, and a 1.5L bottle is about $4.
- Loaf of bread: A fresh loaf from a bakery or the supermarket goes for around $3 to $5. White sandwich bread is usually cheaper (even under $3), while a fancy sourdough or gluten-free option might hit $5 or more.
- Meal at a restaurant: Eating out in Melbourne can range a lot. A main meal at a mid-range restaurant usually sets you back $25–$40. You might pay about $30 for a pasta or steak. Cheaper cafes offer good meals from $15–$25. High-end restaurants? You’re looking at $50+ per dish.
- Coffee (latte or cappuccino): Melbourne’s coffee scene is legendary. A regular coffee at a cafe will cost around $4–$5.50. A flat white or latte is usually $4.50, but if you add extras like oat milk or a double shot, it could go over $5. Still, most locals would agree – it’s money well spent.
- Bottled water: A 600ml bottle of water is about $2.50 to $3 at places like Coles or Woolies. If you grab one from a vending machine or convenience store in the city, it might cost $3–$4. Most locals just carry a reusable bottle since Melbourne’s tap water is top notch (and free!).
- Pizza: A good pizza from a local pizzeria will cost you between $18 and $30, depending on size and toppings. In trendy suburbs, a gourmet or wood-fired pizza can set you back $30–$40. You can get cheaper takeaway from big chains, but for a proper pizza, budget around $25.
- Sushi: Melbourne’s packed with sushi spots. A hand roll (great for a quick bite) usually goes for $3.50 to $4.50. If you’re dining in at a sushi train, plates are often $4 each. So lunch could be under $15, while a proper sushi dinner might be closer to $30 per person.
- Eggs: A dozen regular eggs cost about $5 to $7. Premium free-range or organic eggs will run closer to $8–$10. You’ll usually find solid free-range options in the $6–$8 range at the major supermarkets.
- Wine: Aussie wine is excellent and affordable. A decent bottle of Shiraz or Sauvignon Blanc will set you back around $15–$25 at a bottle shop. You can grab drinkable wines as low as $8–$10, and of course, there are premium drops going for $50 or more. But for the average person, $15–$20 gets you something nice.
- Sources: Woolworths and Coles.
All up, Melbourne’s grocery prices are similar to what you’d find in Sydney or Brisbane. Shopping at local markets (like Queen Vic Market) can save you a few bucks on produce, meat, and other fresh goods. If you cook at home and shop smart, a single person can spend around $400–$600 per month on groceries. But if you eat out a lot, your food budget will jump pretty quickly.
Entertainment Costs in Melbourne (2025): A Price Overview
Entertainment in Melbourne really depends on what you’re into and how often you go out. A night on the town can be affordable or add up fast — your call.
A typical night out — say, dinner and a movie — will usually cost somewhere between $100 and $200 per person. For example, dinner might be around $40, a movie ticket $25, and drinks or dessert after could add another $30 or so. Go low-key and you might spend $80. Go all out (fancy restaurant, 3D IMAX, cocktails after), and it could hit $150 or more.
Here’s a breakdown of common entertainment costs around Melbourne:
- Dining out: A main meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $25–$40. Add a drink and maybe an entrée to share, and dinner out is roughly $50 a head. Trendy or upmarket spots charge more. On the flip side, a cheap feed (like noodles or fish and chips) might only be $15–$20.
- Movie tickets: Standard movie tickets are around $20. If it’s a new release or you’re going on a weekend, expect to pay $22–$25. Premium sessions like Gold Class or IMAX can go for $30–$40 per ticket.
- Live shows and events: Melbourne’s packed with gigs, theatre, sport, and festivals. Local music or comedy gigs can be $20–$40. A bigger concert or show might cost $50–$150, and a ticket to the footy or tennis can vary from $30 to over $100 depending on the game and the seats.
- Drinks and nightlife: A cocktail in a standard bar costs around $12–$20. At a swanky rooftop or speakeasy, it could be $20+ each. Beers are usually $10 a pint, and a glass of wine is $10–$15. Some clubs charge a $20–$30 entry fee on busy nights, but plenty of places are free.
That said, Melbourne isn’t just about spending money to have fun. There’s heaps of free or low-cost stuff to enjoy — street festivals, art exhibitions, live music, walks along South Yarra, visit St Kilda beach or relaxing in one of the many parks of Fitzroy. If you’re social and out often, it’s worth setting aside a couple hundred bucks a month for entertainment.
Gym Costs in Melbourne: Memberships and Options
Staying fit in Melbourne is pretty easy, and you’ve got lots of choices — from budget-friendly gyms to boutique studios with all the bells and whistles.
- Basic gyms: No-frills gyms like Anytime Fitness or Snap Fitness usually cost around $15 to $20 per week, so roughly $60–$80 a month. You’ll get access to cardio and weight equipment, 24/7 entry, and maybe a few classes depending on the location. Some budget gyms offer discounts if you commit to a year or use them during off-peak hours.
- Mid-range gyms: If you’re after a gym with classes like yoga, spin, or strength training included, you’ll probably pay around $25–$40 per week, or $100–$160 per month. Most big gym chains sit in this range.
- Premium fitness studios and clubs: Think F45, CrossFit, pilates studios, or luxury gyms with pools and saunas. These memberships often run from $50 to $70+ per week, or $200–$300 per month. For example, an unlimited class pass at an F45 in Melbourne can be around $65 per week. Not cheap — but you’re paying for that group training vibe and the gear.
If you want to keep costs down, check out council-run rec centres or community gyms — they’re usually cheaper and still offer decent equipment and classes. And don’t forget there’s free outdoor gym equipment in heaps of parks around the city.
Where you train matters too. CBD gyms are often more expensive because of rent and demand. The same brand of gym in the suburbs might be $10–$15 a week cheaper. Also, some gyms offer better rates for long-term contracts, so locking in a 12-month deal could save you up to 30% compared to going month-to-month.
Cost of Living Comparison: Melbourne vs. Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane
Evaluating the differences in rental prices, groceries, transportation, and utilities across Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane is essential for effective financial planning. To help with your decision, use our Interstate Moving Cost Calculator to estimate expenses accurately.
If you’re considering relocating from Adelaide, Sydney, or elsewhere, take a look at our interstate cost comparison to ensure you select the transport option that best fits your needs:
| Category | Melbourne CBD | Perth CBD | Sydney CBD | Brisbane CBD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1–2BR apartment) | $2,500/month | $1,700/month | $3,000/month | $2,000/month |
| Utilities (electricity, water, etc.) | $200/month | $180/month | $250/month | $220/month |
| Food (groceries & basic dining) | $600/month | $500/month | $700/month | $600/month |
| Transportation (public transport) | $150/month | $100/month | $140/month | $180/month |
These figures give you a good feel for how things stack up. Sydney is clearly the most expensive across the board — rent, food, even utilities. Melbourne comes in second, mainly due to rent. Perth tends to be the cheapest in the major capitals, and Brisbane sits in the middle but has higher transport costs, especially for people commuting by car.
Melbourne’s still one of the more expensive places to live in Australia, but it’s also packed with culture, parks, jobs, and events — and many reckon it’s worth the spend.
The cost of living in Melbourne FAQs
Cost of Living Melbourne Overview: Move Confidently with North Removals
All up, there's no denying Melbourne can be an expensive place to live, even though it's a bit more affordable than Sydney. Housing will likely take the biggest chunk of your budget, followed by essentials like food, transport, and utilities. On the bright side, Melbourne offers an incredible quality of life – from excellent job opportunities to world-class coffee and culture – which makes those costs feel worthwhile.
I once moved a family of four using our Interstate Removalists Melbourne service. They were anxious about living expenses in Melbourne, especially with two kids to raise. On moving day, we chatted about ways they could save money – I suggested they look at a suburb a bit further out for cheaper rent and hit the weekend markets for affordable fresh food. A few months later, they sent me an update saying those tips really helped them settle in comfortably and enjoy Melbourne without breaking the bank.
Even after all these years, I still enjoy helping people settle into Melbourne. If you're gearing up for your move, reach out to our expert Packing & Moving Services Melbourne team to make sure everything goes smoothly. So if you're gearing up to move to Melbourne, I'm just a phone call away. We are the best rated removalist in Melbourne and we'll make sure everything goes smoothly – my team will handle the heavy lifting so you can start enjoying Melbourne, no worries.