Australia’s cost of living has risen sharply since 2022. Understanding what a realistic budget looks like — and how your expenses compare — is the first step to taking control of your finances. Here is a comprehensive breakdown for 2026.
Average Weekly Expenses by City (Single Person, 2026)
| City | Rent (1BR) | Groceries | Transport | Total Est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $650–$800/wk | $120–$160 | $50–$80 | $900–$1,200 |
| Melbourne | $550–$700/wk | $110–$150 | $50–$80 | $800–$1,050 |
| Brisbane | $500–$650/wk | $100–$140 | $40–$70 | $720–$980 |
| Perth | $480–$620/wk | $100–$135 | $35–$60 | $700–$940 |
| Adelaide | $420–$550/wk | $95–$130 | $30–$55 | $620–$860 |
| Hobart | $400–$530/wk | $100–$135 | $25–$45 | $600–$830 |
What Income Do You Need in Each City?
As a rule of thumb, rent should be no more than 30% of take-home pay. Here is the approximate gross salary required to afford a one-bedroom apartment without financial stress:
- Sydney: $95,000–$115,000/year gross
- Melbourne: $80,000–$95,000/year gross
- Brisbane: $72,000–$88,000/year gross
- Perth: $68,000–$85,000/year gross
- Adelaide: $60,000–$75,000/year gross
How Inflation Has Affected Living Costs
Australian consumer prices rose approximately 18% between 2022 and 2025, with groceries, insurance and rent leading the increases. Insurance premiums rose over 25% in that period, while grocery baskets are roughly 20% more expensive than in early 2022. Wage growth has been slower, averaging around 3–4% per year, meaning real wages fell during this period for most Australians.
How to Take Control of Your Budget
Understanding your cost of living starts with tracking your actual spending. Use FinSight’s free budget planner to enter your income and expenses and see exactly where your money is going — and where you can save.
Free Australian Budget Planner
Track every expense, see your surplus, and build a realistic budget in minutes.
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Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always consult a licensed financial adviser before making financial decisions.