Cost of Living in Perth (2026) — Monthly Budget

Wondering how far your salary goes in Perth? Here’s what everyday life costs, in local prices — the numbers that matter when you’re deciding to move or negotiating a package.

What things cost

One-bed apartment, inner suburbsAUD 1,900–2,700 / month

Transperth Go Anywhere fare≈AUD 2.80 SmartRider autoload / AUD 3.50 cash or bank card — 3 hours, any distance

Groceries, one personAUD 480–730 / month

Return flight Perth–SydneyAUD 350–700 return, 5 hours each way

Overseas visitors health cover (single)AUD 85–180 / month

Good to know

Population

≈2.3 million (Greater Perth)

Languages

English; Mandarin, Italian, Vietnamese, Afrikaans and Tagalog widely spoken

Currency

Australian dollar (AUD)

Time zone

AWST (GMT+8) all year — WA does not observe daylight saving

Power plug

Type I, 230 V / 50 Hz

Climate

Mediterranean — hot dry summers, mild wet winters, the sea breeze most afternoons

Driving side

Left

Work week

Mon–Fri, 38 ordinary hours; FIFO rosters are the notable local exception

Some of this may be out of date. Spotted something inaccurate? Help us keep it right for the next newcomer.

A note on budgeting

Rent is usually the swing factor — location and whether bills are included move the number most. Build your estimate from the rent band above, add a monthly living figure, and keep a buffer for one-off setup costs (deposits, a residence permit, a local SIM, first-month transport). Globe Quest turns this into a personalized Perth checklist so nothing setup-related catches you off guard.