Cost of living
Understanding the costs which can be incurred while studying is an important part of planning your budget.
Preparing and planning a budget can help you to navigate living and studying with a limited income. To get you started, we have provided an overview of the estimated costs of living in Melbourne.
Cost of renting
There are different types of private rental accommodation in Melbourne, and the cost of these vary depending on where you live and how many people you live with.
The following provides a guide to the average weekly rental prices per property type:
| Location | Property type | Median rent |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan Melbourne | 1 Bed Flat | $340 |
| 2 Bed Flat | $420 | |
| 3 Bed Flat | $495 | |
| 2 Bed House | $450 | |
| 3 Bed House | $400 | |
| 4 Bed House | $440 | |
| Regional Victoria | 1 Bed Flat | $210 |
| 2 Bed Flat | $273 | |
| 3 Bed Flat | $350 | |
| 2 Bed House | $290 | |
| 3 Bed House | $340 | |
| 4 Bed House | $410 |
Source: Department of Health and Human Services rental report.
Cost of University Accommodation
University Accommodation offers trusted student housing close to our Parkville campus. Explore self-contained studios with private facilities, shared apartments and dormitory-style living. When you live in one of our residences, you’ll also be joining a vibrant community with a year-round calendar of academic, sporting, social and career events.
To find out more, see the University Accommodation page.
Cost of residential colleges
Each college provides a range of unique academic and support services to students. The colleges also offer a range of financial aid programs that may to assist students including scholarships and bursaries. To find out more, visit the colleges website.
There are also other types of accommodation options for students to consider.
Cost of other expenses
The following provides a guide on the average weekly amounts for typical expenses:
| Expense | Average cost per week |
|---|---|
| Food and eating out | $140 to $280 |
| Gas and/or electricity | $10 to $20 |
| Phone and internet | $15 to $30 |
| Public transport | $30 to $60 |
| Car (after purchase) | $150 to $260 |
| Entertainment | $80 to $150 |
Source: Study in Australia website.
Useful resources
- Study in Australia
- Study Melbourne: The cost of living in Victoria
- Moneysmart: Student life and money
- Department of Health and Human Services: Rental report
Still not sure?
To get advice on budgeting, accommodation options and sources of financial and housing support, book an appointment with a Financial Aid Adviser.