Australia vs USA Cost of Living Calculator
Here’s a detailed table comparing the estimated cost of living in Australia vs. the USA, covering key expenses in both countries. All costs are estimated averages and can vary widely depending on the city, lifestyle, and other factors.
| Category | Australia (AUD) | USA (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent per month) | |||
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | 1,800 – 2,500 | 1,500 – 2,200 | Higher in cities like Sydney, New York; varies widely. |
| 1-bedroom apartment (outside center) | 1,300 – 1,800 | 1,100 – 1,500 | Often lower in smaller cities. |
| 3-bedroom apartment (city center) | 3,500 – 5,500 | 2,500 – 4,500 | Similar variations based on city and neighborhood. |
| Utilities (per month) | |||
| Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage (85m² apartment) | 150 – 250 | 100 – 200 | Utility costs fluctuate with seasonal use and local rates. |
| Internet (60 Mbps or more, Unlimited) | 70 – 90 | 50 – 70 | Internet tends to be more affordable in the USA. |
| Groceries (monthly for 1 person) | |||
| Milk (1 liter) | 1.60 – 2.20 | 0.90 – 1.20 | Milk and dairy are generally pricier in Australia. |
| Bread (500g loaf) | 2.50 – 3.50 | 2.00 – 3.00 | Comparable, though some items vary based on import costs. |
| Rice (1 kg) | 2.20 – 3.00 | 2.00 – 2.50 | Prices differ depending on location and brand. |
| Eggs (12-pack) | 4.00 – 6.00 | 2.50 – 4.00 | Eggs are pricier on average in Australia. |
| Chicken fillets (1 kg) | 10 – 15 | 8 – 12 | Meat prices can be high in both countries. |
| Dining Out | |||
| Meal in inexpensive restaurant | 20 – 25 | 15 – 20 | Dining out is generally comparable, though varies by region. |
| Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | 80 – 120 | 60 – 100 | Fine dining and high-end options cost similarly in both countries. |
| McDonald’s Combo Meal | 12 – 15 | 8 – 10 | Fast food tends to be slightly cheaper in the USA. |
| Transportation | |||
| Monthly public transport pass | 100 – 160 | 70 – 120 | Heavily dependent on city; USA transit less comprehensive outside major cities. |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | 1.80 – 2.20 | 1.00 – 1.20 | Gas is generally cheaper in the USA due to subsidies. |
| Healthcare | |||
| Doctor’s appointment | 60 – 100 | 80 – 150 | Private healthcare costs can be high; universal coverage impacts pricing in Australia. |
| Health insurance (individual, monthly) | 100 – 300 | 200 – 400 | Costly in both countries, though higher in the USA if uninsured. |
| Education | |||
| International school (annual tuition) | 15,000 – 30,000 | 10,000 – 40,000 | Varies based on institution and location. |
| University (domestic, annual tuition) | 6,000 – 15,000 | 10,000 – 30,000 | Public universities in the USA can be expensive without financial aid. |
| Miscellaneous | |||
| Gym membership (monthly) | 50 – 80 | 30 – 50 | Gym costs can vary, especially with amenities included. |
| Cinema ticket | 15 – 20 | 12 – 15 | Entertainment pricing is similar; some cities offer discounts for residents/students. |
| Overall Monthly Estimate for 1 Person | |||
| Basic living expenses (without rent) | 1,200 – 1,600 | 1,000 – 1,500 | Average costs without housing expenses, varying by lifestyle. |
| Average monthly total (with rent) | 2,800 – 4,100 | 2,500 – 4,000 | Costs vary widely based on city, housing choice, and personal lifestyle. |
Summary Insights
- Housing: Costs are comparable but often slightly higher in Australian major cities compared to mid-sized U.S. cities.
- Transportation: The U.S. has cheaper fuel, but public transportation is generally more accessible in Australia’s major cities.
- Healthcare: Public health options in Australia help offset costs, while U.S. healthcare can be significantly more expensive for those uninsured.
- Groceries and Dining: Prices are generally comparable, though certain items, like dairy and fast food, can be cheaper in the USA.
This comparison offers a general overview, but local variations and individual lifestyle choices can significantly impact the actual cost of living.