Cost of Living in Sydney as a Student

Sydney is a beautiful city in Australia but has definitely given off the impression of being expensive. Trying to figure out all the costs and budgeting by yourself may seem scary, but we are here to help you. In this list of the cost of living in Sydney, we bring you all the expenses that can occur during your studies and some easy tricks you can follow to help you save some extra bucks! 

A bit about Sydney!

Sydney is the capital city of the state of New South Wales in Australia. Located on the country's east coast, it is the largest city in Australia, with a population of over 5 million people. It is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and beautiful beaches. Sydney is also home to many universities and research institutions, making it a hub for education and innovation.

What is the total cost of living in Sydney as a student?

The total cost of living in Sydney as a student can differ depending on a number of factors like accommodation, tuition fees, lifestyle, and personal spending habits. On average, the approximate cost of living for a student in Sydney per year can range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 35,000, excluding tuition fees. However, it's important to note that this is an approximate estimate, and actual costs may vary. Some of the major costs include:

Tuition Fees in Sydney

As a student, paying tuition fees is the main cost of living in Sydney when planning your living expenses in Sydney. So this is an important factor to consider when creating a budget. Tuition fees for international students in Sydney vary depending on the institution and the program you are enrolled in. However, on average, you can expect to pay around AUD 30,000 to AUD 50,000 per year for an undergraduate degree and around AUD 20,000 to AUD 40,000 per year for a postgraduate degree.

Newcastle University

The University of Newcastle (UON), often known as the University of Newcastle, is a public university located in Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. The main campus is located in the Callahan district of Newcastle, founded in 1965. The average tuition fee of this university is AUD 19,496 - AUD 33,600 for International tuition.

Federation University of Australia

Federation University of Australia is the country's fourth oldest institution of higher learning and was founded in 1870 as a predecessor to the Victorian Gold Rush. The Gippsland campuses of Ballarat University and Monash University merged in 2013, and the university was renamed Federation University in 2014. The average tuition fee of this university is AUD $11,000 - $1,21,000 per year for International tuition.

How can you save on tuition fees in Sydney?

Tuition is basically a student requirement, so it isn’t much you can do to negotiate a lower price. Applying for financial aid or Scholarships is the best way to reduce the cost of living in Sydney. There are numerous scholarships available for studies in Australia. You can also check if you are eligible for financial aid for your preferred university.

Food and Groceries Expenses

Food and groceries are an important part of the cost of living in Sydney, whether you are a foodie or not. Food and grocery prices vary greatly depending on tastes and preferences, but here are some rough estimates for food and food in Sydney.

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There are also many options in Sydney for students who are foodies and love to explore various restaurants in Sydney  and food joints nearby.

How can you save on your food and groceries expenses?

Self-cooking can save you a lot of spends on groceries and the cost of living in Sydney. You might start loving making a quick meal for yourself with these 10 easy recipes. You can use it to take advantage of store sales and promotions, buy seasonal items, and limit the frequency of eat-in and take-out.

Cost of Travel in Sydney

Another big part of the total cost of living in Sydney is travel costs. Sydney students find transportation and travel very convenient thanks to the city's efficient transport infrastructure. The city is known for its transportation options, such as bike rentals, busses and metros.

1. Bus

Buses are the most budget-friendly mode of transportation for students. Several private bus networks in the city include Transdev NSW, Busways, ComfortDelGro Australia and Forest Coach Lines. A weekly bus pass costs approximately AUD 10-30, depending on the service.

2. Metro

There is also a subway running through the city, which is convenient for students. It runs mostly underground and has 13 main stations. The metro network is constantly expanding, with new lines and stations being built to improve connectivity within the city.

How to save on travel expenses in Sydney

There is not much you can do to reduce the cost of living in Sydney for transportation. Still, you can consider walking and biking as travel options to save money and be cautious about your fitness and the environment. If you plan to travel occasionally, consider purchasing a combination pass or a special time pass. Many public transport providers offer significant travel discounts to students. If available, discounts can be used to lower the cost of living in Sydney.

Cost of Sydney Student Accommodation

The student accommodation you choose also plays an important role in the cost of living in Sydney. You are free to choose to live on campus or off campus. There are also options for private rentals and student housing (PBSA). PBSA is a shared apartment created with the needs of students in mind. The PBSA is fully equipped and equipped with all accessories. If you are looking for affordable and functional housing in Sydney, PBSA Sydney is the best place for you.

The cost of living in Sydney depends on where you live and the type of room you choose. This majorly affects the cost of living in Sydney. The average costs of different rooms and apartments in Sydney are:

1. Shared rooms - AUD 420
2. PBSA - AUD 480
3. Private rooms - AUD550

How can you save on Sydney student accommodation?

You can choose to stay in a double room or share an apartment with a few flatmates and save on the cost of living in Sydney with shared household expenses, such as utilities, groceries, and wifi.

Utilities

When calculating the cost of living in Sydney, the cost of monthly utilities should also be calculated. Your utility bills will vary depending on where you live and how often you use these items, but they are necessary for your home to function properly. Depending on where you live, your rent may already cover some of these costs. The average cost of living in Sydney on utilities are:

1. Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water and Garbage in an average apartment - 227.06 A$
2. Internet - 78.61 A$

How to save on utilities in Sydney?

The cost of living in Sydney can be greatly reduced by living in a shared apartment. To reduce the typical monthly cost of living in Sydney, be sure to turn off the lights and the heating and air conditioning when you leave your apartment.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Exploring a new city or country is one of the greatest benefits of moving. You will have to cater to various costs of living in Sydney. Sydney is one of Australia’s busiest and most vibrant entertainment Cities. Sydney’s opera house and Mount Gower are two of the best things to do in Sydney. Additionally, Sydney students will have a great time at one of the city's many bars, restaurants and pubs. The basic cost of living in Sydney for entertainment and recreation is estimated as follows:

1. Meal at a normal restaurant - 22.00 A$
2. Meal at a fancy restaurant - 65 A$
3. Beer - 10 A$
4. Coffee - 4.63 A$

For a better understanding of Sydney city, check out our Sydney city guide!

How to reduce the expense on miscellaneous expenses?

Finding affordable alternatives to things you enjoy is one of the best ways to save money. Another thing you can do is to ask yourself if this is what you really need and those which are not on priority can be cancelled or simply postponed to next month. Saving money on clothing is also a great way to save the cost of living in Sydney.

This blog has covered almost everything you need to know about the cost of living in Sydney. We may not list all prices, but this blog will give you a general idea of ​​what to expect when you start planning your cost of living in Sydney and start planning and budgeting. We hope you find this blog helpful. If you wish to read more about the city, read our blogs on the best tourist attractions in Sydney, along with the best cafes and museums. Check this out if you are a student moving here and finding it difficult to find the best student accommodation in Sydney.