Cost of Living in Perth: Complete Guide for 2025

Darshan Shah

19 Jul 2024

Are you planning to study in Australia this year? Universities in Perth are offering world-class education as opposed to a lower cost of living in Perth for international students. We have curated all you need to know about the cost of living in Perth for Indians in this comprehensive and in-depth guide. 

Study in Australia: Why Choose Perth?

Every city has its uniqueness. Here are some of the specialties unique to Perth so you can compare your options before you look up “Is Perth expensive to live?” browsing the internet. 

Education and Academics

This is the strongest reason to choose a location for studying abroad in Australia. While Sydney and Melbourne may boast universities ranking among the top 50 universities of the world, Perth is no less blending education with affordability in living costs. Let’s look at the top universities in Perth and their QS World Rankings. Sectors such as mining, biotechnology, and renewable energy are growing for a hub of innovation in the city.

Natural Attractions & Outdoor Activities

There are a lot of attractions throughout the city that make Perth such a comfortable place to study and live in! Some of the major attractions are:

1. Stunning Beaches: Perth is renowned for its beautiful, pristine beaches such as Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach, and City Beach. The Indian Ocean provides excellent opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
2. Kings Park: One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Swan River. It's a popular spot for picnics, walking trails, and botanical gardens.
3. Swan River: The river provides a scenic backdrop for the city and is ideal for boating, kayaking, and riverside walks.

Lifestyle and Cultural Scene

• Laid-Back Lifestyle: Perth is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
• Cultural Scene: The city boasts a lively arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and music venues. The Perth Cultural Centre is a focal point for arts and entertainment.
• Food and Wine: Perth has a diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines. The nearby Swan Valley and Margaret River regions are famous for their wineries and gourmet food.
• Sports & Recreation: Perth has a strong sports culture, with facilities for cricket, Australian rules football, soccer, rugby, and more. The city's stadiums host major sporting events and concerts.

Solid Economy

Perth's economy is robust, driven by the mining and resources industries. The city's strategic location also makes it a gateway to Asia, enhancing its trade and business opportunities.

Mediterranean Climate 

Perth enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This pleasant weather allows for a year-round outdoor lifestyle.

Connectivity Within the City

Perth is well-connected with a modern public transport system, including buses, trains, and ferries. The city’s airport provides international and domestic flights, making travel convenient.

Multicultural Environment & Diversity

The city is home to a multicultural population, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, festivals, and community events.

Universities in Perth

Now that we’ve looked into what it feels like to study in Australia, especially in Perth as an international student, let’s take a look at the top universities in Perth you can choose to study in Australia:

Here’s some other useful data related to Universities in Perth provided by the QS Top Universities website:

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Per Month

Perth is stated as one of the most affordable capital cities in the world by the Worldwide Cost of Living Survey 2021, Economist Intelligence Unit. Here’s a monthly breakdown of each expense category with its respective costs in AUD and INR to give you an idea of the average cost of living in Perth. This is the average cost of living in Perth for international students:

Now, let’s explore each of these expense categories in detail:

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Accommodation

The cost of accommodation can vary based on the type, location, amenities, etc. There is a wide range of options available to you such as shared apartments, homestays, private rentals, and residential colleges. Shared apartments or student dormitories are more affordable options for international students. Below are the accommodation costs under the average cost of living in Perth for international students:

Study in Australia: Finding Accommodation

Through University’s Accommodation Services:

• Most universities have dedicated accommodation services that assist students in finding on-campus or off-campus housing.
• University of Western Australia: UWA Accommodation Services
• Curtin University: Curtin Accommodation

Online Platforms:

• Websites like Flatmates.com.au, Realestate.com.au, and Domain.com.au list available rental properties and shared accommodations.
• Study in Australia Accommodation Guide: Study in Australia Accommodation

Student Housing Providers:

• Dedicated student housing providers like Student.com, UniLodge, and Campus Perth offer specialized accommodation for students.
• UniLodge Perth: UniLodge Perth
• Campus Perth: Campus Perth

Homestay Networks:

• Homestay programs can be arranged through networks such as the Australian Homestay Network (AHN), which matches students with host families.
• Australian Homestay Network: AHN

Social Media and Forums:

• Joining university-specific Facebook groups or forums can help in finding shared accommodations or connecting with other students looking for housemates.
• Examples include the UWA Students Facebook group and Curtin University Discussion Group.

Rental Agencies:

• Contacting local real estate agencies can help in finding private rentals. They can provide listings and arrange viewings for suitable properties.

Student Unions and Associations:

• Many student unions and associations provide resources and advice on finding accommodation, including listings of available rooms or apartments.
• UWA Student Guild: UWA Guild Accommodation

Temporary Accommodation:

• Booking temporary accommodation through platforms like Airbnb or hostels can provide a place to stay while searching for long-term housing.

Is Perth Expensive to Live? Tips for Accommodation

• Location: Choose locations close to your university, yet on the suburban side to save money.
• Short-Term Rentals: You can opt for this until you find a good deal in housing rentals. 
• Accommodation Programs: Student communities and homestays can be cheaper options.
• Residential Colleges: These are offered by some universities and include everything.

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Food & Groceries

Here are the average prices for food and groceries in Perth. You can compare the item cost and what a meal at a medium-priced restaurant would look like:

Dining Out Costs:

Is Perth Expensive to Live? Check Out Some Tips to Save Money on Food & Groceries

1. Buy in Bulk: Purchasing non-perishable items in bulk from wholesale stores can save money in the long run.
2. Shop at Local Markets: Farmer's markets often have fresher and cheaper produce than supermarkets.
3. Use Loyalty Programs: Many supermarkets have loyalty programs that offer discounts and points that can be redeemed for future purchases.
4. Plan Meals: Planning your meals for the week can help avoid unnecessary purchases and reduce food waste.
5. Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home is usually more cost-effective than eating out.
6. Compare Prices: Use apps and websites to compare prices between different stores before shopping.
7. Seasonal Produce: Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season, as they tend to be cheaper.

Is Perth Expensive to Live? Places for Cheaper Groceries

1. Aldi: Known for its low prices and weekly specials, Aldi is a great option for affordable groceries.
2. Spud shed: Offers competitive prices, especially on fresh produce.
3. Farmer Jack’s: Often has sales on fresh fruits and vegetables.
4. Coles and Woolworths: Both offer weekly specials and discounts on various items.
5. Farmers' Markets: Subiaco Farmers Market, Stirling Farmers Market, and Perth City Farm Farmers Market provide fresh produce at competitive prices.

Is Perth Expensive to Live? Cheaper Restaurants in Perth

1. D'Angelo Café: Affordable Italian meals with large portions.
2. Sushi Wawa: Offers reasonably priced sushi and Japanese dishes.
3. Jaws Sushi: Known for its conveyor belt sushi, it's a cost-effective choice for Japanese cuisine.
4. Govinda's Hare Krishna Restaurant: Offers hearty vegetarian meals at a low cost.
5. Varsity Bar: Provides budget-friendly burgers and American-style food.
6. Authentic Bites Dumpling House: Offers affordable and delicious dumplings and Chinese cuisine.
7. Little Creatures Brewery: A fun place with reasonably priced beer and pub food.

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Transportation

There are several options to choose from when it comes to commuting in Perth. If your university is close to your accommodation, 

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Utilities

Below is a representation of what your monthly utility costs would look like in Perth:

Is Perth Expensive to Live: Ways You Can Save Money on Utilities in Perth

1. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances to reduce electricity consumption. Look for the energy rating label when purchasing.
2. Reduce Water Usage: Fix any leaks, install water-saving showerheads, and use a dual-flush toilet to save on water bills.
3. Use Solar Energy: If possible, install solar panels to take advantage of Perth’s sunny climate. This can significantly reduce electricity costs.
4. Bundle Services: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle multiple services (like internet and mobile plans) together.
5. Shop Around: Use comparison websites like iSelect to find the best deals on utilities. Regularly review your plans and switch providers if better rates are available.
6. Monitor Usage: Keep track of your utility usage to identify patterns and areas where you can cut back. Many providers offer online tools to help monitor consumption.
7. Insulate Your Home: Proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by maintaining a more consistent indoor temperature.
8. Turn Off Standby Power: Unplug devices or use a power strip to turn off multiple electronics at once, preventing them from drawing power when not in use.
9. Use Timers and Smart Plugs: Schedule appliances to turn off during peak times when rates might be higher, or when they are not needed.

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Entertainment

These may vary greatly depending on how often you go out. Here are some of the monthly costs you can expect to spend once in a while:

Is Perth Expensive to Live: Ways You Can Save Money on Entertainment in Perth

1. Free Events and Festivals: Look for free local events, festivals, and community activities. Perth often hosts free public events, especially during the summer.
2. Discount Days: Many cinemas offer discounted tickets on certain days of the week. Check for "Cheap Tuesday" deals at Hoyts or other local theaters.
3. Group Discounts: Purchasing group tickets can sometimes result in a discount for concerts and events.
4. Student Discounts: If you are a student, take advantage of student discounts available for movies, events, and dining.
5. Membership Programs: Join loyalty programs at cinemas, restaurants, and entertainment venues to earn points and receive discounts.
6. Early Bird Specials: Many restaurants offer early bird specials where meals are cheaper if you dine during off-peak hours.
7. Streaming Services: Consider subscribing to streaming services for movies and music instead of paying for individual purchases or tickets.
8. Library Resources: Utilize local libraries which often offer free access to books, movies, music, and sometimes even cultural events and workshops.
9. Volunteer: Volunteering at festivals or events can sometimes earn you free admission and a chance to enjoy the event while contributing to the community.

Average Cost of Living in Perth: Miscellaneous Expenses

Is Perth Expensive to Live? Ways to Save Money on Miscellaneous Expenses in Perth

1. Buy Second-Hand: Purchase clothing, furniture, and household items from second-hand shops or online marketplaces like Gumtree.
2. DIY Personal Care: Learn basic grooming skills to cut down on salon visits. Consider at-home treatments and haircuts.
3. Use Coupons and Discounts: Take advantage of coupons, discount codes, and sales events. Websites like Catch.com.au often have significant discounts.
4. Bulk Purchase: Buy household items and personal care products in bulk to save money in the long run.
5. Compare Insurance Plans: Shop around and compare different insurance plans to find the most cost-effective options.
6. Childcare Subsidies: Look into government subsidies and programs that can help reduce the cost of childcare.
7. Limit Subscriptions: Review and cancel unnecessary subscriptions. Opt for free alternatives where possible.
8. Pet Care Savings: Buy pet food in bulk, use DIY grooming techniques, and keep an eye out for vet clinics that offer discounts or special deals.
9. Gifts and Donations: Plan and budget for gifts and donations ahead of time to avoid overspending. Handmade gifts can be a personal and cost-effective alternative.

Study Overseas with D-Vivid Consultant

We hope you were able to gain in-depth insight into the average cost of living in Perth and whether is Perth expensive to live for you. For your study in Australia, you must compare prices across cities to decide which suits you best financially. The cost of living in Perth for international students is fairly affordable from other major Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. The cost of living in Perth for Indians has been mentioned too throughout the article so you can compare INR costs side-by-side. The average living expenses Perth every month amount to approximately 1,12,160 INR. For further questions or personalized guidance for your study in Australia, please don’t hesitate to reach out at 75750 20920. D-Vivid is here to help you with each step of your study abroad journey, from preparing for IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and GRE, to writing an SoP and LoR, to submitting your university and visa applications.

Useful Links:

Australian Government: Cost of Living Calculator

Curtin University

Study in Australia - Explore Courses, Fees, and Scholarships