Extremely High Cost of Living Australia is now one of the most expensive student destinations. ?

 Yes — Australia is currently considered one of the more expensive destinations for international students, especially in terms of cost of living, though the level of “expensiveness” can vary based on the city you choose and your lifestyle.

🧑‍🎓 Why Australia’s Cost of Living is High for Students

1. Overall living expenses are significant

• Monthly living costs for international students typically range from about AUD 1,400 to over AUD 3,000+, depending on the city and lifestyle.

• Bigger cities like Sydney and Melbourne are among the most expensive, often costing around AUD 2,000–3,500+ per month if you live independently.

• Even in more affordable cities like Adelaide or Hobart, costs remain high compared with many other countries.

2. Accommodation and rent add a big burden

• Rent in major cities can be very high, with shared housing or private rentals often costing hundreds to thousands of AUD per month.

• Limited on-campus housing pushes many students into private rentals, where demand has driven up prices.

3. Everyday expenses are also steep

• Groceries, utilities, transport, health insurance (OSHC), and miscellaneous spending together contribute substantially to monthly budgets.

🏙️ City-by-City Differences

• Sydney and Melbourne — typically the priciest for students, with high rents and general living costs.

• Brisbane, Perth, Canberra — mid-range costs but still expensive by international standards.

• Adelaide, Hobart, regional cities — relatively more affordable but overall costs remain notable.

🌍 Comparison with Other Destinations

While Australia is costly, it’s not always the absolute most expensive worldwide — students in places like the USA, UK, or parts of Europe can also face similar or higher combined study and living expenses — but Australia ranks high on the list of pricier options for international students.