Cost Of Living In Canberra: Is It Affordable Or Expensive?
Your essential guide to living, studying, & budgeting in Canberra.
Table of Content
Canberra, Australia’s capital city, is known for its green spaces, culture, and academic reputation. But while it’s quieter than Sydney or Melbourne, the cost of living in Canberra can still surprise students who don’t plan their finances early. Between accommodation, food, and daily essentials, small costs can add up faster than expected.
This guide breaks down the average cost of living in Canberra, covering rent, groceries, utilities, and transport, so you can budget smartly. The cost of living in Canberra is a key factor for students. Get your complete 2025 breakdown, whether you're moving for university or capital city life.
Average Cost of Living in Canberra
The average cost of living in Canberra Australia, ranges between AU$1,500 and AU$2,400 per month, depending on where you live and how you manage your expenses. Rent is typically the biggest contributor to your living cost in Canberra, followed by groceries and transport.
| Expense Category | Budget (AU$) | Mid-Range (AU$) | Premium (AU$) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | AU$850-1200 | AU$1400-1800 | AU$2200-2600 |
| Food & Groceries | AU$250-350 | AU$400-500 | AU$600-750 |
| Transport | AU$50-100 | AU$120-160 | AU$200-250 |
| Utilities & Internet | AU$120-180 | AU$200-250 | AU$300-400 |
| Entertainment | AU$70-120 | AU$150-250 | AU$300-400 |
| Health Insurance | AU$50-70 | AU$80-100 | AU$130-180 |
| Phone Plan | AU$20-40 | AU$40-60 | AU$70-100 |
| Miscellaneous | AU$100-150 | AU$200-300 | AU$400-500 |
On average, students spend around AU$1,800 per month to live comfortably in Canberra. While it’s not the cheapest Australian city, its safety, transport, and student services make it worth the cost.
Housing and Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is the biggest expense for students and a key driver of the Cost of Living in Canberra Australia. The city offers a mix of on-campus housing, private rentals, and purpose-built student apartments in Canberra that fit different budgets.
Affordable Neighbourhood Options
If you’re looking for affordable living, consider areas just outside the city centre. Many of thebest suburbs in Canberra offer excellent student-friendly options with easy access to public transport.
| Neighbourhood | 1-Bedroom(AU$/week) | 2-Bedroom(AU$/week) | 3-Bedroom(AU$/week) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Braddon | AU$420-520 | AU$650-800 | AU$900-1100 |
| Turner | AU$400-500 | AU$620-750 | AU$850-1000 |
| Belconnen | AU$380-480 | AU$580-720 | AU$800-950 |
| Lyneham | AU$370-460 | AU$560-700 | AU$750-900 |
| Kingston | AU$450-600 | AU$700-900 | AU$950-1200 |
Shared student accommodation in Canberra starts around AU$250-350 per week, while private studios and 1-bed apartments range from AU$450-600 per week. Choosing shared housing can significantly reduce your overall living expenses in Canberra.
Food and Grocery Costs
Food expenses in Canberra depend largely on your eating habits. Cooking at home is the easiest way to lower your cost of living in Canberra.
Weekly Grocery Budget
| Household Size | Budget Range (AU$) | Premium Range (AU$) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Person | AU$70-100 | AU$130-180 |
| Couple | AU$140-180 | AU$220-300 |
Dining Out Costs
| Dining type | Average Cost (AU$) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast cafes | AU$12-22 |
| Lunch specials | AU$15-25 |
| Dinner mains | AU$20-35 |
| Coffee | AU$4-6 |
| Takeaway meals | AU$8-15 |
Money-saving tips:
1. Shop at Aldi, Woolworths, or the Canberra Centre market for deals.
2. Cook meals in bulk and share with housemates.
3. Use student discount apps at local eateries.
Transportation Costs
Canberra’s transport system is efficient and affordable. Students can access buses and light rail with discounted MyWay cards, making daily commuting easy.
| Transport type | Costs (AU$) |
|---|---|
| Single trip (student) | AU$2-3.5 |
| Weekly cap (student) | AU$25 |
| Monthly travel | AU$90-130 |
| Uber (short trip) | AU$10-20 |
| E-scooter rental | AU$1+0.35/minute |
| Bike rental | AU$15-25/day |
If you live close to your campus, cycling or walking can help cut down your average cost of living Canberra.
Utilities and Internet
Utility expenses can fluctuate depending on your housing setup and energy habits.
| Utility | Monthly Cost (AU$) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | AU$100-180 |
| Gas | AU$30-70 |
| Water | AU$40-80 |
| Internet | AU$60-90 |
| Mobile Plan | AU$20-50 |
Saving tips:
1. Opt for energy-efficient appliances and shared plans.
2. Look for student accommodation canberra anu with utilities included.
3. Compare internet providers yearly for the best rates.
Other Essential Expenses
| Category | Monthly Estimate (AU$) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Health Insurance | AU$50-70 | Required for international students |
| Study material | AU$50-100 | Depends on your program |
| Entertainment | AU$70-150 | Weekend, movies, or local trips |
| Gym/Fitness | AU$30-80 | Student discounts available |
Canberra also ranks high for education quality, home to some of the best universities in Australia, which makes every dollar you spend on living here a long-term investment.
Safety and Proximity
Canberra is consistently rated one of Australia’s safest cities. Suburbs like Braddon, Kingston, and Turner are student favourites thanks to their proximity to major universities and cultural spots. Living near campus cuts commuting time and helps reduce your cost of living in Canberra as a student each month.
Example Monthly Student Budget
| Expense type | Estimated Monthly Cost (AU$) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared studio) | AU$1000 |
| Utilities + Internet | AU$180 |
| Food & Groceries | AU$400 |
| Transport | AU$80 |
| Entertainment | AU$100 |
| Miscellaneous | AU$150 |
| Total | AU$1910 |
That’s a realistic reflection of the Cost of Living in Canberra for international students who want a balance of comfort and affordability.
Saving Tips for Students
Keeping your Canberra Australia, cost of living under control comes down to planning and prioritizing:
1. Choose student accommodation in Canberra with included bills and Wi-Fi.
2. Split groceries and cleaning supplies with flatmates.
3. Use MyWay transport discounts and bike wherever possible.
4. Attend free campus or community events instead of paid outings.
5. Shop during weekly supermarket sales.
6. Track monthly expenses using budgeting apps.
Conclusion
The Cost of Living in Canberra is higher than in some regional cities but far more affordable than in Sydney or Melbourne. With its strong education system, cultural diversity, and high safety standards, Canberra offers excellent value for students. If you’re planning your move, explore student apartments in Canberra that match your lifestyle and budget. With smart choices and early planning, managing your cost of living in Canberra Australia, becomes straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cost of living in Canberra for students?
The Cost of Living in Canberra ranges from AU$1,500-AU$2,400 per month, depending on rent and lifestyle.
How much does student accommodation cost in Canberra?
Shared student housing costs AU$250-350 per week, while private studios start around AU$450 per week.
Is Canberra more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne?
Yes. The living cost in Canberra is 15-20% lower than in Sydney and about 10% lower than in Melbourne.
How much should I budget for groceries and food?
Expect to spend around AU$350-450 per month on food if you mostly cook at home.
Do international students get transport discounts in Canberra?
Yes, eligible students receive concession fares through the MyWay system, cutting travel costs by nearly half.