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How Much Does it Cost to Live Comfortably in Perth? You Might Be Surprised

November 8, 2023
How much does it cost to live comfortably in Perth?

Key takeaways:

  • Accommodation in Perth varies significantly in price, with furnished apartments in high-end areas averaging AU$3,630 monthly, and purchasing a city-centre 1-bedroom apartment costing around AU$500,000.
  • Daily living expenses, such as dining and groceries, can be costly, with regular meals out averaging between $15-$20 per person and a mid-range restaurant meal for two costing around AU$80.
  • Perth’s public transportation offers monthly passes for AU$120, while personal transportation costs include gasoline at AU$1.50 per litre and a new Volkswagen Golf at approximately AU$35,000.

Perth is one of the most popular cities in Australia, known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. But how much does it cost to live comfortably in Perth?

The cost of living in Perth can be quite high, especially when compared to other cities in Australia.

“According to recent data, a family of four can expect to spend around $4,231.4 per month on living expenses, not including rent.”

This includes everything from groceries and utilities to transportation and entertainment. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and actual costs can vary depending on a number of factors, including where you live, your lifestyle, and your income.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cost of living in Perth, and provide you with valuable insights into what you can expect to pay for everything from rent and groceries to transportation and entertainment.

We’ll also provide you with tips on how to save money while living in Perth, and offer advice on how to make the most of your time in this beautiful city. So if you’re thinking about moving to Perth, or just curious about what it costs to live here, keep reading!

Costs of Living in Perth

Perth is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, but how much does it cost to live there comfortably? This section will provide an overview of the costs of living in Perth, including accommodation, food and dining, and transportation.

Accommodation Costs

The cost of accommodation in Perth can vary depending on the location, size, and type of property.

According to Expatistan, the average monthly rent for an 85m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in an expensive area is AU$3,630.

In a normal area, the cost drops to AU$2,480. If you are considering living in the city centre, a one-bedroom apartment will cost around AU$2,500 per month, while an apartment outside of the centre will cost around AU$1,800 per month.

Utilities such as electricity, gas, and heating for an 85m2 apartment will cost around AU$300 per month. Internet and mobile phone services will cost around AU$100 per month. For prospective buyers, finding houses for sale in Perth requires a keen eye for deals in both the city centre and the suburbs.

“The average price for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around AU$500,000, while an apartment outside of the centre will cost around AU$400,000.”

For those wondering, “are houses expensive in Perth Australia?,” it’s essential to look at current market trends.

Food and Dining Costs

When it comes to food, Perth is relatively expensive. According to Career Gigo, the average cost of a meal for one person is between $15-$20, depending on the restaurant. If you are eating out three times a day, that’s a significant chunk of your budget.

To better understand “How much money do you need to live comfortably in Perth?,” one must consider that eating out three times a day can quickly consume a budget.

“To save money, you can always cook at home. The cost of groceries in Perth is similar to other major cities in Australia.”

If you are looking for a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay around AU $80 for a meal for two people. An inexpensive restaurant meal for two people will cost around AU$50. If you are looking for fast food, a meal at McDonald’s will cost around AU$10.

The cost of groceries in Perth is similar to other major cities in Australia. A loaf of fresh white bread will cost around AU$2, while a kilogram of rice will cost around AU$3.50.

A kilogram of chicken fillets will cost around AU$12, while a kilogram of beef round will cost around AU$18.

A litre of milk will cost around AU$1.50, while a kilogram of local cheese will cost around AU$12. A dozen eggs will cost around AU$4.

Transportation Costs

Perth has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. A single ticket for a local transport system will cost around AU$4.80. If you plan to use public transportation frequently, it is recommended to purchase a monthly pass, which costs around AU$120.

If you prefer to drive, a litre of gasoline will cost around AU$1.50. If you are looking to purchase a car, a Volkswagen Golf will cost around AU$35,000.

If you need to take a taxi, the initial tariff is around AU$4.20, with an additional AU$2.17 per kilometre. If you need to wait, the cost is around AU$0.70 per minute.

In summary, the cost of living in Perth can be relatively high, but with careful budgeting and planning, it is possible to live comfortably.

Lifestyle and Leisure Expenses

Living comfortably in Perth includes more than just basic necessities. Leisure and lifestyle expenses can also add up quickly, so it’s important to budget accordingly.

Entertainment and Sports Costs

For those who enjoy going out and exploring all that Perth has to offer, entertainment costs can be a significant expense. Going to the cinema can cost around AUD 20 per person for a standard ticket, while a 3-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost around AUD 90.

Sports enthusiasts may want to consider the cost of playing tennis, which can range from AUD 10-30 per hour for court rental, and joining a fitness club or gym, which can cost around AUD 60-80 per month.

Clothing and Personal Care Costs

Clothing and personal care expenses are also important to consider when budgeting for a comfortable lifestyle in Perth. A pair of Levi’s 501 jeans can cost around AUD 100, while a summer dress from a mid-range store can cost around AUD 60.

A pair of Nike running shoes can cost around AUD 150, and men’s leather business shoes can cost around AUD 120-200. Personal care expenses such as internet and mobile phone monthly plans can cost around AUD 70-90 per month.

Education and Childcare Costs

For families with children, education and childcare costs can be a significant expense. Preschool and kindergarten can cost around AUD 40-70 per day, while primary school and international primary school can cost around AUD 2,000-20,000 per year.

“Childcare costs can also vary greatly depending on the type of care needed, with full-time care costing around AUD 1,000-1,500 per month.”

Overall, lifestyle and leisure expenses can add up quickly in Perth. It’s important to budget accordingly and prioritize expenses based on individual preferences and needs.

Suggested reading: For a more thorough understanding of the Perth real estate scene, our article on buying a house in Perth is a must-read.

FAQs on ‘How much does it cost to live comfortably in Perth?’

What is a decent salary in Perth?

In Perth, Australia, a decent salary is considered to be $94,569 per year, which averages out to $48.50 per hour. Entry-level positions may start at $71,131 annually, while highly experienced workers could earn up to $158,293 per year.

Is it worth moving to Perth?

Perth is known for its high quality of life, offering a wealth of amenities, stunning beaches, world-class parks, cultural events, local wine, heritage sites, and unique wildlife, making it an excellent place to live.

What is the minimum salary to live comfortably in Australia?

For a comfortable life in Australia, an individual might require around $20,000 per year, whereas an average family may need over $50,000 annually to cover all expenses.

What are the disadvantages of living in Perth?

One noted disadvantage of living in Perth is its isolation. Being one of the most isolated major cities globally, it can sometimes be challenging due to the distance from other major cities, potentially causing frustration for some residents.

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