Australia remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students — but also one of the most expensive.
In 2026, the Australian Government updated financial capacity requirements for the Student Visa Subclass 500, making it essential for students to understand true living costs before applying.

This in-depth guide provides real budgeting expectations, city-wise comparisons, and ways to reduce expenses.

What is the average cost of living for international students in Australia?

‍The average cost of living for international students in Australia in 2026 is AUD$1,300–$1,900 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. Rent is the largest expense, followed by food, transport, and health cover.

Updated Cost of Living Requirements for Student Visa 500 (2026)

The Department of Home Affairs increased the minimum living cost requirement to AUD $29,710 per year for a single student.
This amount must be shown in financial evidence during the Student Visa application.

👉 Read Guide: Student Visa 500 financial capacity requirements

Monthly Cost of Living Breakdown (2026 Estimates)

Below is a realistic monthly budget for international students:

Expense Category               Average Monthly Cost

Rent                                     $600–$1,100

Food                                    $320–$500

Transport                            $80–$160

Utilities                                $70–$150

Phone & Internet                 $30–$80

Health Insurance (OSHC)   $40–$55

Entertainment                     $80–$150

Total                                            $1,300–$1,900

Rent Costs in Australia (Highest Expense)

Rent varies significantly across cities.
Here’s the 2026 updated range for student accommodation:

City                         Weekly   Rent (Shared)

Adelaide             $160–$240

Hobart                $170–$250

Perth                  $180–$260

Gold Coast         $180–$280

Canberra            $210–$320

Sydney               $250–$380

Melbourne         $220–$320

👉 Read Guide: Cheapest cities in Australia for international students

Tuition Fees Compared (Affordable Course Options)

Tuition fees depend on the program and institution.
Here are average yearly fees:

Course Type                          Average Annual Tuition

VET Courses                      $6,000–$14,000

Bachelor’s Degree             $21,000–$33,000

Master’s Degree                $24,000–$40,000

MBA                                   $30,000–$60,000

👉 Read Guide: Cheapest courses in Australia for international students

Transport Costs for Students

Most cities offer discounted student fares.

Monthly Transport Estimate:

• Adelaide: $50–$70
• Melbourne: $85–$125
• Sydney: $100–$160
• Brisbane: $80–$120

Students who live near campus often spend much less.

Food & Groceries Cost

Weekly food expenses range from $70–$120,depending on diet and location.

Cheapest supermarket chains:

✔Aldi
✔ Coles
✔ Woolworths

H2: Health Insurance (OSHC) Costs in 2026

OSHC is mandatory for Student Visa500 holders.

Average yearly cost:
$500–$650 per year

👉 Related Blog: Student Visa 500 requirements

Ways to Reduce Cost of Living as a Student

✔ Choose accommodation in outer suburbs

✔ Share rented houses

✔ Cook at home

✔ Use student discounts

✔ Buy used textbooks

✔ Choose affordable universities

Most Affordable Cities for Student Living (2026)

1.Adelaide

2.Hobart

3.Perth

4.Gold Coast

5.Newcastle

👉 Read Guide: cheapest cities for students in Australia

Eligibility Tip — Cost of Living & Visa Approval

Officers now closely check:

• bank statements
• income proofs
• loan sanctions
• sponsor relationship evidence

This directly affects refusal risk.

👉 Related Blog: Genuine Student (GS) requirement Australia

Cost of Living Comparison With Other Countries

Country

Monthly   Cost (USD Equivalent)

Australia

$850–$1,300

Canada

$900–$1,400

UK

$1,000–$1,600

USA

$1,200–$1,800

Australia remains competitive despite higher rents.

FAQs – Cost of Living in Australia (2026)

❓Is Australia expensive for students?

It depends on the city, but shared accommodation keeps costs manageable.

❓Can I work part-time to cover expenses?

Yes — up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.

❓Which is the cheapest city?

Adelaide and Hobart are among the most affordable.

❓How much money should I bring initially?

At least $3,000–$4,000 for settling in.

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