Cost of Living in Sydney for Students
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Sydney is the capital city of the state of New South Wales. It is a popular student destination and is ranked the fourth-best student city in the QS World Rankings. According to Go Visa Free, Sydney is ranked as the 4th safest city to live in the world, with a low crime rate. Sydney is slightly more expensive compared to other cities in Australia.
On average, the estimated cost of living in Sydney for a single person will range between A$2,300 to A$4,200 per month. This may look like an expensive cost of living in Sydney, but prices will vary based on your expenses. For more personalized information, use our cost of living calculator to estimate your desired area’s average cost of living. In this blog, we will discuss in detail about the Cost of living in Sydney in 2025, so let’s dive in!
Monthly Expenses in Sydney 2025
The cost of living in Sydney depends on several factors, such as your accommodation type, lifestyle choices, and proximity to the city center. Expenses like tuition fees, rent, transport, and daily needs add up, so budgeting wisely is key. Below is a quick snapshot of average monthly costs to help you get started:
| Expense | Cost (Average) |
| Tuition Fees | A$30,000 – A$50,000 / Year |
| Accommodation | A$1,350 – A$3,300 / Month |
| Local Transport | A$275 / Month |
| Groceries | A$400 – A$600 / Month |
| Utilities | A$200 – A$400 / Month |
| Entertainment | A$150 – A$300 / Month |
Tuition Fees in Sydney 2025
Sydney is home to some of the best universities in the world, making it a top destination for international students seeking quality education and career opportunities. While the tuition fees in Sydney may vary depending on the university and the specific program, the investment is justified by the high standard of education, state-of-the-art facilities, and global recognition of degrees. Here’s a breakdown of the average tuition fees in Sydney for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs:
| Program | Cost Range (AUD) |
| Undergraduate | A$30,000 – A$45,000 / Year |
| Postgraduate | A$35,000 – A$50,000 / Year |
Accommodation Options in Sydney 2025
Securing suitable accommodation is a top priority for international students, as it plays a significant role in managing the cost of living in Sydney and ensuring a comfortable lifestyle. Sydney offers a variety of housing options to cater to different preferences, budgets, and lifestyles. Here’s an overview of the accommodation options in Sydney to help you make an informed decision:
| Accommodation Type | Features | Average Price (AUD) |
| Student Housing | Shared rooms, single studios, close to universities | A$1,350 – A$2,200 / Month |
| Private Apartments | Independent living spaces with amenities | A$2,300 – A$3,300 / Month |
| University Halls | On-campus housing with shared facilities | A$500 – A$1,200 / Month |
Following is the various types of accommodations in Sydney:
Student housing is a popular choice for those seeking convenience and affordability, often located within walking distance of universities and featuring all-inclusive rent that covers utilities.
Private apartments are ideal for students who prefer independence and privacy, offering modern amenities and a more spacious living environment.
University halls provide a community-driven experience, fostering connections with peers while offering essential facilities like shared kitchens and common areas. These are typically the most affordable option, especially for those who enjoy campus life.
Food and Grocery Costs in Sydney 2025
Food is an essential component of the cost of living in Sydney. Dining out can be expensive, but preparing meals at home can help you save significantly. For instance, a litre of milk will cost you a dollar, a dozen eggs will cost you A$5, and a kilo of chicken will cost you A$11. Following is the Typical Grocery Costs:
| Item | Average Price (AUD) |
| Milk (1 litre) | A$1.50 |
| Eggs (12) | A$5.00 |
| Chicken (1 kg) | A$11.00 |
| Bread (1 loaf) | A$3.50 |
| Rice (1 kg) | A$2.80 |
Transportation in Sydney 2025
Sydney has a good public transportation system. This includes buses, trains, trams, and ferries. Purchasing an Opal card will give you access to the city’s public transportation system. You can avail of a discount only if you receive an approved Australian Government scholarship. Below are the various modes of transportation and their costs
| Mode of Transport | Features | Average Monthly Cost (AUD) |
| Bus/Train/Ferry | Covers entire city; student discounts available | A$275 |
| Cycling | Bike lanes and rentals widely available | Free or minimal costs |
| Ride-Sharing Services | Ideal for short trips or late nights | A$10–A$20 per ride |
Utility Bills
The cost of your utility bills in Sydney (gas, energy, insurance, etc.) will start from A$200 and above depending upon your usage. Here’s an overview:
| Utility | Monthly Cost Range (AUD) |
| Electricity | A$100 – A$150 |
| Gas | A$50 – A$70 |
| Internet | A$60 – A$80 |
| Water | Often included in rent |
Entertainment
When it comes to having a good time, Sydney has a lot to offer. A movie ticket here would cost you about A$15 per person, and a dinner for two would cost around A$56. If you are going to a downtown club, a drink will cost you A$18. Following are the entertainment costs in Sydney:
| Activity | Average Cost (AUD) |
| Movie Ticket | A$15 |
| Dinner for Two | A$60 |
| Entry to Clubs/Bars | A$15–A$25 |
| Cultural Events | Free to A$20 |
How to live on a budget in Sydney
Sydney is beautiful and comes with a price. But don’t you worry. There are ways that you can live on a budget, and enjoy living in Sydney with the financial burden. Here are a few easy and helpful tips:
- Use Student Discounts: Available on transport, dining, and shopping.
- Cook at Home: Save on dining costs by preparing meals yourself.
- Choose Affordable Housing: Opt for shared or student-specific accommodations.
- Plan Entertainment: Take advantage of free events and public attractions.
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