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Living costs

Understand typical student living costs in Sydney so you can plan and stick to a realistic budget.

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Cost of living calculator

This tool is designed to help you estimate how much it could cost to have the lifestyle you choose in Australia. You can compare accommodation arrangements, transportation options as well as other lifestyle choices.

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General living costs

Expense category Monthly cost (AUD)

Accommodation

Prices vary depending on location, type (shared house, studio, student housing), and proximity to campus.

Renting a room in a shared house is usually cheaper – you have many options in areas close to campus such as Newtown, Redfern and Camperdown. Our University accommodation may also offer fixed rates.

 $980–$3,500

Food and groceries

Shop at local supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi, or go to fresh food markets like Paddy’s Market to save money.

 $1,000 - $2,500

Transport

Public transport in Sydney is convenient and affordable using an Opal card. You get fare caps and discounts through regular use of trains, buses, light rails, metro lines and ferries.

 $130 - $800

Mobile phone plan

Varies based on data allowance, call/text inclusions and contract type. Prepaid plans are flexible, while postpaid plans may have better value for heavy users.

 $30 - $100

Lifestyle expenses

Keep your student card with you and enjoy concessions at cinemas, fashion retailers, tech stores and food services.

 $350–$650

Gym membership

Costs vary depending on location, facilities and contract type. Many gyms offer student prices, including the Sydney Uni Sport & Fitness (SUSF) gyms on campus – you’ll have access to fitness classes, courts, machines, an indoor pool and more.

 $70 - $100

Figures sourced from the Cost of Living calculator by Study Australia.

More budgeting considerations

  • You may need to purchase equipment for university, including stationery and study materials such as textbooks and laboratory coats. Essential items are listed in your Unit of Study Outline. Have at least $500 available at the beginning of each semester and keep an eye out for second-hand textbooks (make sure they are the right edition) and supplies to save money.
  • Printing and photocopying cost around 10 cents per page.
  • According to Tutor Finder, private tutoring costs range from $50–80 an hour, but mentoring support may be available through the University.

According to Care for Kids:

  • The average cost of long daycare (8am to 6pm) in Sydney is approximately between $70–190 per day. Some students may be eligible for government subsidies. 
  • Before school and after school care costs around $15–30 per day. 
  • Public school tuition is free for Australian permanent residents however, uniforms and levies can cost about $500 a year. 
  • Private schools may charge additional fees.
  • If you're an international student with school-age dependents in Australia, visit the Department of Education for approximate costs of schooling.

International student expenses

For international students, the Department of Home Affairs have set out financial evidence you must demonstrate. As a single student you must be able to show you have the financial capacity to cover living costs of at least $24,505 Australian dollars per year. There are additional costs for extra family members.

Using this amount as a guide, a single student living away from home will require at least $2,042 per month for accommodation, food, utilities and entertainment. The actual costs will depend on your lifestyle choices and needs.

For detailed information, please see step 2 of the government's student visa step-by-step guide.

  • Overseas Student Health Cover is compulsory for international students. Costs will depend on your insurance provider and your level of cover. Check with your insurance provider for rates for your selected cover. 
  • You may have additional costs including fees for specialists and prescription medications. 
  • Alternative forms of coverage are available for non-student visa holders. Please check with a provider for details.

Our support services

Financial pressures can feel overwhelming, but support is always available. From meals to transport, we’re here to help you manage challenges and focus on what matters most — your studies and wellbeing.

Financial support

We can help with essential living costs, including rent and bill payments, through bursaries, vouchers and interest-free loans.

Learn more

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Food and supplies

Our campus has plenty of affordable food options from student-led initiatives. You can also collect food and supplies – many of our campus events also offer free food.

Transport options

We help you get around campus at no extra cost.

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Rebates, discounts and other resources

Discover alternative or additional options that may support your food, travel and bill payments.

Learn more