Cost Of Living

Compared with the UK and many western European countries, Australia is a cheap place to live - roughly 25% cheaper for food. Australian cities are some of the cheapest to live in the world, and many people who emigrate to Australia speak about the cheaper living costs, which in turn allow them to enjoy a better standard of living. Fruit and vegetables are grown locally, making them cheaper and fresher, while meat is of a higher standard and sold at a lower price. However, be aware that from city to city, costs vary.

According to the Mercer Cost of living Survey for 2008, Sydney is Australia’s most expensive city and the 15th most expensive city in the world, with average prices as follows:

• Rent of a luxury two bedroom unfurnished apartment (per month): $1,606.26
• Bus or subway ride: $1.64
• Music CD: $15.41
• 1 issue of international daily newspaper: $2.78
• 1 cup of coffee, including service: $2.47
• Fast food hamburger meal: $3.98

Melbourne was placed 36th, with Australia’s other cities outside the top 50. To find out more visit Mercer’s 2008 Cost of Living survey highlights.

But if you are looking to immigrate to Australia surely it’s the quality of life you are after rather than the quantity of things you can buy?