Cost of Living in Australia vs Canada: Planning to study abroad in 2025 and choosing between Australia and Canada? Both countries offer world-class education, diverse cultures, and incredible opportunities for international students.
However, understanding the cost of living in Australia vs Canada is essential for effective budgeting. From tuition fees and housing to everyday expenses, this guide compares the living costs in both countries to help you choose the ideal destination. Let;s get started.
Table of contents
- What is the Cost of Living in Australia Vs Canada
- Average Accommodation Costs in Australia vs Canada
- Cost of Living in Major Cities in Australia and Canada
- Cost of Transportation in Australia vs Canada
- Utility Costs
- Food and Groceries Costs
- Entertainment and Leisure Costs
- Top 5 Universities in Australia and Canada
- Tips on saving money in Australia and Canada
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Australia vs Canada
What is the Cost of Living in Australia Vs Canada
The average cost of living in Australia for an individual is approximately AUD 3839 per month, whereas the average cost of living in Canada for an individual is approximately CAD 2,989 per month, according to LivingCost data. Additionally, Australia ranks 12th on the global list of the most expensive countries, while the Canada holds the 15th position. To give you a general idea about the cost of living in Australia vs Canada we have covered prices associated with various essential items in the table below.
| Expense Category | Approx Cost in Australia | Approx Cost in Canada |
| Cost of living (One person) | AUD 3839 | CAD 2,989 |
| One person rent | AUD 2239 | CAD 1,784 |
| Food expenses | AUD 915 | CAD 826 |
| Transport expenses | AUD 445 | CAD 187 |
Average Accommodation Costs in Australia vs Canada
Let’s start with the big one—rent! As a student, rent will likely take up a significant portion of your monthly budget. The cost of rent varies greatly between Australia and Canada, depending on the city and type of accommodation you choose. Similarly, the overall cost of living in both countries can differ significantly based on your location, as prices vary considerably from one city to another.
The cost of student accommodation in Australia are quite different when compared to that of student accommodation in Canada. But don’t worry there are the cheapest cities to live in Canada as well as in Australia where rent and living costs are much lower. To help you understand the cost of living in Australia vs Canada, here’s a comparison of the average monthly rent in both countries.
| Accommodation Type | Approx Price in Australia | Approx Price in Canada |
| 1 bedroom apartment in Downtown, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | AUD 2417 | CAD 1760 |
| Cheap 1 bedroom apartment, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | AUD 1850 | CAD 1527 |
| 3 bedroom apartment in Downtown, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | AUD 4548 | CAD 3111 |
| Cheap 3 bedroom apartment, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | AUD 3077 | CAD 2578 |
Cost of Living in Major Cities in Australia and Canada
The cost of living depends heavily upon the city you are planning to live in. Therefore, to give you an idea we have listed below the minimum cost of living in Australia vs Canada.
| City | Minimum Cost of Living (per month) |
| Adelaide (Australia) | AUD 1,300 |
| Brisbane (Australia) | AUD 1,400 |
| Canberra (Australia) | AUD 1,400 |
| Melbourne (Australia) | AUD 1,500 |
| Sydney (Australia) | AUD 1,900 |
| Toronto (Canada) | CAD 1,250 – CAD 2,500 |
| Ontario (Canada) | CAD 1,084 – CAD 2,417 |
| Quebec (Canada) | CAD 1,167 |
| Montreal (Canada) | CAD 1300 |
Cost of Transportation in Australia vs Canada
For students, transportation costs are an important thing to consider, especially when you’re commuting to college or hanging out with friends on the weekends. When comparing the cost of transportation in Australia and Canada, it’s important to note that expenses can vary depending on the city, the mode of transport, and the availability of student discounts.
So, whether you’re studying in Australia or Canada, transportation won’t take a big chunk out of your student budget. The table below provides a clear comparison of the costs for local transport tickets, monthly passes, taxi rides, and fuel in both countries.
| Expense Category | Approx Cost in Australia | Approx Cost in Canada |
| Local transport ticket | AUD 5.3 | CAD 3.74 |
| Monthly ticket for local transport | AUD 189 | CAD 123 |
| Taxi ride for 8 kilometres or 5 miles | AUD 35.8 | CAD 24 |
| Gas or petrol per litre | AUD 2.19 | CAD 2 |
Utility Costs
Utilities are an important part of housing costs, though they don’t make up a big portion. But when added together, they can still cost a fair amount. According to the LivingCost website, the basic monthly utility bill for one person in Australia is around AUD 180 to AUD 200. This includes electricity, water, heating, cooling, and garbage. Similarly, in Canada, the utility bill for one person can range from CAD 130 to CAD 150. Here’s a table showing utility costs in Australia vs Canada, which can be especially helpful for the students:
| Utility Type | Approx Cost in Australia | Approx Cost in Canada |
| Utility Bill (One person, electricity, heating, water, etc.) | AUD 188 | CAD 131 |
| Internet Plan (50 Mbps+ 1 month unlimited) | AUD 87.5 | CAD 79.1 |
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Food and Groceries Costs
When comparing food prices in Australia and Canada, grocery prices are nearly the same in both countries. You’ll find that the cost of basic items like fruits, vegetables, and other groceries doesn’t differ much. However, when it comes to restaurant prices, Australia tends to be more expensive than the Canada.
Additionally, Canada and Australia is home to many amazing cafes where students can relax and enjoy delicious coffee. You can check out the amazing cafes in Canada and also try some Australian foods to experience the country’s rich food culture. Below, you can find a comparison of meal prices in Australia vs the Canada:
| Item | Approx Cost in Australia (AUD) | Approx Cost in Canada (CAD) |
| Lunch Menu | 24.6 | 23 |
| Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 | 121 | 101 |
| Fast food meal, equiv. McDonald’s | 16.7 | 15 |
However, cooking at home is a great way to save money, eat healthier, and control your meals. To help with your grocery budget, here’s a list of common grocery items and their prices in Australia and Canada.
| Item | Approx Cost in Australia (AUD) | Approx Cost in Canada |
| Milk, 1 L | 2.52 | 3.18 |
| Bread, 0.5 kg | 4.11 | 3.67 |
| Rice, 1 kg | 3.62 | 4.77 |
| Eggs, x12 | 7.23 | 4.98 |
| Cheese, 1 kg | 17.2 | 18.5 |
| Chicken Breast, 1 kg | 14.8 | 17.5 |
| Apples, 1 kg | 5.46 | 5.62 |
| Banana, 1 kg | 4.65 | 2.03 |
| Oranges, 1 kg | 4.91 | 5.28 |
| Tomato, 1 kg | 7.03 | 5.54 |
| Potato, 1 kg | 4 | 3.5 |
| Onion, 1 kg | 3.56 | 3.6 |
| Water, 1 L | 1.71 | 1.71 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi, 2 L | 4.24 | 3.11 |
| Cold medicine, 1 week | 11.3 | 14 |
| Hair Shampoo | 9.54 | 6.97 |
| Toilet paper, 4 rolls | 4.95 | 4.05 |
| Toothpaste, 1 tube | 5.28 | 3.4 |
Entertainment and Leisure Costs
As a student in Australia or Canada, it’s not just about paying for rent and groceries—it’s about enjoying your time too! Both countries offer plenty of cultural, recreational, and fun activities, from outdoor adventures to vibrant festivals, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience.
You can explore the Fascinating parks in Austrlia, visit best theatres in Australia with your friends and loved ones and visit museums in Canada as well. Below is a comparison of the approximate costs for miscellaneous items in both countries.
| Item | Approx Cost in Australia (AUD) | Approx Cost in the Canada (CAD) |
| Gym Membership (1 month) | 82.8 | 59.30 |
| Cinema Ticket (1 person) | 24.6 | 16.80 |
| Haircut (simple) | 32.9 | 29 |
| Brand Jeans | 128 | 82 |
| Brand Sneakers | 183 | 131 |
Tuition Fees
When comparing the cost of living in Australia and Canada, it’s important to also consider the tuition fees of the top universities in each country. Tuition fees make up a significant part of a student’s expenses and can vary widely based on the university and program. Understanding these costs can help you create a clear budget. Here’s a table for reference:
| Aspects | Average Tuition Fees Australia (Annual) | Average Tuition Fees Canada (Annual) |
| Undergraduate Degree | AUD 20,000-45,000 | CAD 10,000-30,000 |
| Graduate Degree | AUD 22,000-50,000 | CAD 15,000-65,000 |
| Doctoral Program | AUD 22,000-42,000 | CAD 7,000-17,000 |
| Diploma/Certificate | AUD 4,000-22,000 | CAD 10,000-15,000 |
Top 5 Universities in Australia and Canada
As an international student, you’re spending a lot of money to study abroad, so it’s important to make sure you get the best value for your investment. The most important thing to consider is the university you choose, as it will ensure you get a good education. Here are the top 5 universities in Australia and Canada:
| Australia | Canada |
| Australian National University (ANU) | University of Toronto |
| University of Sydney | McGill University |
| University of MelbourneUniversity of New South Wales (UNSW) | University of British ColumbiaUniversite de Montreal |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | University of Alberta |
Tips on saving money in Australia and Canada
If you’re a student moving to Canada or Australia for higher studies, it’s important to learn how to save money. Moving to a new country can bring uncertainties, like tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.. These challenges make it crucial to save money and keep some aside for emergencies. So, how can you manage your finances as an international student? Here are a few tips:
- Create a Budget: Plan your expenses, including tuition, rent, food, and transportation, to keep track of your spending.
- Look for Student Discounts: Take advantage of student deals on transport, food, and entertainment by showing your student ID.
- Choose Affordable Accommodation: Consider shared housing or student residences to save on rent.
- Cook at Home: Save money by preparing your meals instead of eating out regularly.
- Buy Used Textbooks: Purchase second-hand or digital books, or rent textbooks instead of buying new ones.
- Use Public Transportation: Opt for buses, trains, or trams instead of taxis or rideshares to save on travel costs.
- Limit Non-Essential Spending: Cut back on unnecessary luxuries like shopping or expensive coffee.
- Work Part-Time: If your student visa allows, get a part-time job to earn extra money and cover living expenses.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Australia vs Canada
The average cost of living in Australia for an individual is approximately AUD 3839 per month, whereas the average cost of living in Canada for an individual is approximately CAD 2,989 per month, according to LivingCost data.
The cost of living may vary depending on the city you choose, but generally, Canada is cheaper than Australia.
Urgent hospitals and essential treatment are free in Australia. However, General Physicians do charge fees for the appointment and to give prescriptions. People can recover some of the cost if they are a part of Australia’s universal health insurance scheme.
Canadian and Australian passports are equally powerful as with any of these passports an individual can visit 185 countries.
Australia is one of the best places to live. Whether you are aiming for quality-driven education, opportunities in your career or a better standard of living, Australia will surely fulfil every dream of yours.
Australian citizens and permanent residents can attend government schools (also called public schools) for free in Australia. On the other hand, catholic and independent schools in Australia charge attendance fees.
Salaries in Australia are generally higher than in Canada, but the cost of living in Australia, especially in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, can be more expensive. Ultimately, the better salary depends on the industry, job role, and location, with both countries offering competitive wages in various sectors.
Australia and Canada have similar levels of wealth, but Australia tends to have a slightly higher GDP per capita. However, the overall wealth of a country depends on various factors like natural resources, industries, and cost of living.
Utility costs (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) are slightly higher in Australia compared to Canada, but they still vary depending on the city.
Food is generally more affordable in Canada, especially for dining out and groceries, compared to Australia where food costs are higher in major cities.
We hope you liked this blog where we compared the cost of living in Australia vs Canada. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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