Are you considering advancing your career or studies in Perth? But before making the move, it’s essential to understand the cost of living in Perth to help you plan your budget effectively. In 2025, Perth will remain one of the more affordable cities in Australia, with comparatively lower costs for accommodation and transportation.
This guide will break down the significant expenses involved in the cost of living in Perth, including education, housing, food, transportation, utilities, and healthcare. Whether you’re an international student or a professional moving to Perth, this blog provides a practical look at the financial side of living in this sunny, dynamic city.
Cost of Living in Perth: An Overview
The average cost of living in Perth for one person is around AUD 3599 per month, including the rent and food. However, these expenses can vary based on individual budgets, lifestyle preferences, and choices made while studying in Australia.
To help you estimate living expenses in Perth, we have compiled a breakdown of significant costs, covering areas such as education, accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and more. Please have a look.
| Particulars | Approx Costs |
| A bedroom apartment in the City Area | AUD 2223 (Monthly) |
| A bedroom apartment outside the City Area | AUD 1636 (Monthly) |
| On-Campus Accommodation | AUD 640 (Monthly) |
| Transportation | AUD 180 (Monthly) |
| Food | AUD 911 (Monthly) |
| Utilities | AUD 193 (Monthly) |
| Entertainment | AUD 70 (Monthly) |
| Groceries | AUD 149 (Monthly) |
Cost of Accommodation in Perth
A significant part of the cost of living in Perth is accommodation, so choosing the accommodation wisely is important. One must consider all the factors like budget, preferences, availability of apartment or room, and proximity. However, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs around AUD 2,223 per month, while more affordable options can be found on the outskirts, averaging about AUD 1,636.
By selecting the right living situation based on your needs and financial capacity, you can enjoy your experience in Perth without the stress of overspending. Here, we have compiled the rent of student housing properties that will help you calculate the cost of living in Perth.
| Type of Accommodation | Approx. Cost of Accommodation in Perth |
| Hostels and Guesthouses | AUD 90 to AUD 200 per week |
| Shared Rental | AUD 200 AUD per week |
| On campus | AUD 90 to AUD 280 per week |
| Homestay | AUD 345 AUD per week |
| A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre | AUD 2,223 per month |
| A one-bedroom apartment in the Outskirts | AUD 1,636 per month |
| Boarding schools | AUD 11,000 to AUD 22,000 per year |
Fly Homes is a trusted platform that helps you identify suitable student accommodation in Perth.
Cost of Utilities in Perth
In Perth, the average monthly cost of basic utilities for one person is approximately AUD 2,667, which is quite reasonable considering the city’s overall cost of living. This utility expense covers essential services such as heating, electricity, gas, mobile phone plans, and internet access.
Below is a detailed breakdown of typical utility costs for international students living in Perth:
| Utility Type | Approx. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic utilities for a person (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) | AUD 193 |
| Internet Plan (50+ Mbps, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) | AUD 84.8 |
Cost of Studying in Perth
The cost of studying in Perth plays a vital role in identifying and calculating the cost of living in Perth. Before relocating to Perth, students must consider whether they can afford the average tuition fees of the universities. The study cost varies depending on the course and educational institution in which you want to pursue your higher education.
To help you navigate these expenses, we have compiled a list of 5 affordable educational institutions or universities in Perth that will help you calculate the cost of living in Perth.
| Educational Institutions in Perth | Approx. Cost of Studying in Perth (annually) |
| University of Western Australia, Perth | AUD 42,500 |
| Curtin University, Perth | AUD 35,000 |
| Curtin Business School | 34,500 |
| School of Business, University of Western Australia | 43,500 |
| Edith Cowan University, Perth | AUD 38,000 |
| Murdoch University, Perth | AUD 44,000 |
| Murdoch Institute of Technology | AUD 31,000 |
| Engineering Institute of Technology, Perth | AUD 21,500 |
Cost of Transport in Perth
Transport is also one of the most important parts of the cost of living in Perth. However, the cost of transportation may vary depending on your choices and preferences. Consider living in on-campus accommodation as it will allow you to save much from transportation costs in Perth. Otherwise, you may also choose to reside near the campus. It will reduce the cost of transportation and save you time.
Also, go for the student passes and try to get as many student discounts as possible. By choosing your accommodation wisely and utilizing available discounts, you can effectively manage your budget while studying in Perth. Here, we have compiled the cost of transportation in Perth, which will help you calculate the cost there.
| Mode of Transportation | Approx. Cost of Transportation |
| Local transport ticket | AUD 5.05 |
| Monthly local transport ticket | AUD 180 |
| Taxi ride (8 km) | AUD 37.20 |
Also Read: Planning to study abroad? Well, check out our blog on the best places to study abroad in the US to avail yourself of world-class education.
Cost of Food in Perth
The cost of food in Perth varies according to the choices and preferences of the students. It is another most important part of the cost of living in Perth. Consider cooking at home as it will save you a lot of money while eating out in restaurants is expensive.
Check out the list of grocery and food costs in Perth
| Food Items | Cost of Food |
| White Bread (500 g) | AUD 3.91 |
| Eggs (12) | AUD 6.65 |
| Milk (1 L) | AUD 2.56 |
| White Rice (1 kg) | AUD 3.31 |
| Local Cheese (1 kg) | AUD 16.00 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | AUD 3.81 |
| Lettuce (x 1) | AUD 3.40 |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | AUD 5.91 |
| Lunch Menu | AUD 23.5 |
| Dinner in a Mid-Range Restaurant | AUD 148 |
| McDonald’s Combo Meal | AUD 17.1 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | AUD 5.63 |
How to Manage the Cost of Living in Perth
Managing the cost of living in Perth can be challenging. Here are some effective strategies to help you navigate your expenses while enjoying all that Perth offers.
- Create a Budget: Track your part-time income and expenses with a detailed budget. Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor where your money goes and identify areas to cut back.
- Choose Affordable Housing: Consider living where rent is lower and fits your living standard. Sharing accommodation with roommates can also reduce housing costs.
- Shop Smart for Groceries: Plan your meals and create a shopping list to avoid impulse buys. For better deals, shop at discount stores like local farmers’ markets. Buy in bulk for non-perishables to save money.
- Utilize Public Transport: Save on transport by using Perth’s efficient public transport system. Consider getting a SmartRider card for discounts. For short distances, walking or cycling is a healthy alternative.
- Enjoy Free Activities: Take advantage of free activities in Perth, such as visiting Kings Park, local beaches, or community events. Many museums and galleries offer free entry days, enriching your cultural experience.
- Cut Utility Costs: Be mindful of energy and water usage to lower utility bills. Compare providers for competitive rates and consider energy-efficient appliances for savings.
- Leverage Student Discounts: If you’re a student, utilize available discounts at shops, restaurants, and events to help manage costs.
- Plan Entertainment Wisely: Look for discounted tickets for events and explore free community activities. Enjoy movie nights at home or picnics in the park to save on entertainment.
Also Read: If you are looking for accommodation in Los Angeles, Check Out our blog on Cheapest Student Accommodations in Los Angeles!
FAQs on Cost of Living in Perth
The average cost of living in Perth is approximately AUD 3,599 per month. This amount typically includes expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and leisure activities.
It is mandatory for all students to get medical insurance renowned as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The average cost for medical insurance is around AUS 350 annually.
The Australia Student Visa will cost approximately AUD 620. Be sure to check out the official website as it is subject to change.
Indeed! The international students in Australia are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during vacations. However, you need to get your Tax File Number (TFN) first.
The cost of studying in Australia ranges between AUD 15,000 – AUD 20,000 annually. It may vary depending on the course and educational institution you have chosen.
Living in Perth can be considered expensive compared to many other Australian cities, primarily due to housing costs. The average monthly cost of living is around AUD 3,599, which includes rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation.
Rent in Perth varies widely. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages around AUD 2,223 per month, while a cheaper option outside the centre costs about AUD 1,636. Prices depend on the location and type of accommodation.
Hope you liked reading our blog about the cost of living in Perth in 2024. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
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