Living Expenses in Brisbane for Indian Students [Updated 2024]

One of the fastest-growing capitals in Australia, Brisbane (Brissie) residents are skilled, highly educated and diverse. Per the QS Best Student Cities 2024, Brisbane is ranked #24 globally, making it a popular study destination. This highlights the city’s affordability and desirability. 

Brisbane is one of Australia’s cheapest major cities for students to live in, with a monthly average of A$2,000. If you are planning to move to this city, learn about the cost of living in Brisbane. Unlock the insights to navigate expenses in the city effectively.

Did You Know

Brisbane is home to three universities globally renowned universities – the University of Queensland, Griffith University and the Queensland University of Technology – offering a spectrum of courses for international students.

Average Cost of Living in Brisbane 

Brisbane is known for its affordability, but it's essential to be financially prepared to cover your educational and living expenses comfortably. On average, the monthly cost of living in Brisbane can range from A$1,728 to A$2,448. However, your living expenses can vary depending on your choice of student accommodation, individual requirements, lifestyle preferences, and spending habits. 

For two individuals in Brisbane, the average monthly cost of living is between A$ 2,376 and A$ 3,935. This budget encompasses various essential expenses such as transportation, utilities, and the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. 

List of Necessary Items with Their Cost 

Moving to a different city requires you to plan, and to know an estimate of living expenses in Brisbane is a prudent choice. From grocery bills to staying connected, this section gives a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with these necessities. These figures will help you set a realistic budget in Brisbane.

List of Average Living Expenses in Brisbane  

Source: Numbeo

Average Rent in Brisbane 

Choosing the right place to live in Brisbane can greatly impact your overall budget. Let's dive into the real estate scene and see what the average living cost in Brisbane is. The cost of living in Brisbane for Indian students encompasses apartment or on-campus housing expenses. 

• 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: You can expect to pay between A$ 2,000 and 3,100 monthly.
• 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: The average monthly living cost in Brisbane for an apartment can range from A$ 1,800 to 2,500.
• 3-bedroom apartment in the city center: Prices vary from A$ 3,500 to 4,700 monthly.

On-Campus Accommodation

For students seeking the convenience of on-campus living, Brisbane offers several options: 

Residential Option (Fully Catered)

• On-campus living, including utilities (gas, electricity & water) as well as meals, ranges from A$ 2,000 to A$ 2,800 per month.
• Whereas at some campuses, it can cost you around A$ 1,716 per month for fully catered accommodation.

Independent Student Accommodation

• Independent student accommodation for university students starts from A$ 319 per week.
• You can also explore independent living at Walcott Street (St Lucia) with prices starting at A$ 360 per week.

Once your stay option is sorted, you would need to know the best way to explore the city. 

Transportation Costs in Brisbane 

Getting around Brisbane efficiently and affordably is essential for students. The following are the insights into the cost of transportation, including public transit and taxi services. Discover the average cost of living in Brisbane for the mobility aspect and how to make the most of your travel options.

• Local Transport: A one-way ticket costs A$3.50–8.00, with a monthly transportation pass budgeted at A$160–250 monthly. 
• Taxi Fares: The average taxi start rates vary between A$3.10 and A$6.50, with a 1 km trip costing approx. A$ 2.50.

Cost of Utilities & Bills in Brisbane

Managing your living expenses involves dealing with utilities and various bills.

• Basic Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, & garbage) for an 85 square meter Apartment: Plan to allocate approximately A$346 monthly for these essential utilities. However, this cost can vary from A$ 200 to A$ 419 depending on factors such as apartment size, location, and usage.
• Monthly Mobile Plan: Mobile phone plans in Brisbane start at around A$ 20.00 per month and can go up to A$ 49.00.

Internet: For high-speed internet with unlimited data, expect to pay an average of A$94 per month. However, prices range from A$ 75 to A$ 113 depending on the internet service provider and plan you choose.

Popular Read:

Cost of Study in Australia

Australia Post Study Work Visa

Jobs after MBA in Australia

5 Affordable Places to Live in Brisbane (Australia)

Let’s have a quick look at the budget-friendly places in and around Brisbane: 

Logan City 

The average cost of living in Logan City, including housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, and recreational expenses, can range from approximately A$1,500 to A$2,500 per month, depending on individual lifestyle choices and accommodation preferences. 

Ipswich

Located in Southeast Queensland, Ipswich has a harmonious blend of rich heritage and modern convenience. The city's average cost of living is estimated to be around A$1,500 to A$ 2,000 per month for a single person.

Gold Coast

In terms of living costs, Gold Coast residents experience reasonable average living expenses in Brisbane, with an estimated monthly expenditure for a single person ranging from A$ 1,500 to A$ 2,000.

Bellmere

This affordable suburb sits alongside Caboolture in the Moreton Bay Region in the far north of Greater Brisbane. The rent here is between A$ 450 and A$575 for spacious apartments suitable for two people or a small family. 

Slacks Creek

This suburb is popular place to stay in Brisbane. Slacks Creek is a fantastic area with close proximity to transport links, major shopping, elaborate green spaces, and facilities like Logan Hospital and the Griffith University campus. Rent in this area can be as low as A$350 for a single person.

Why pick Australia as your study abroad destination:

Why study in Australia

Study Cost and University Tuition Fee in Brisbane

Apart from keeping a tab on your living expenses, you should also know the cost of studying in Brisbane. Let's take a closer look at the study cost and university tuition fees in Brisbane:

Undergraduate Program: 

International students can expect to pay anywhere from A$ 20,000 to A$ 45,000 per year for their undergraduate education. This range accommodates various fields of study and universities.

Postgraduate Program: 

Pursuing a master's degree in Brisbane comes with an estimated cost range of A$ 22,000 to A$ 50,000 annually. The actual fees may vary depending on the university and the specific program chosen.

Doctoral Program: 

Doctoral candidates will find a fee range of A$ 20,000 to A$ 42,000 per year. These fees cover the research-intensive nature of doctoral studies in Brisbane.

Apart from tuition fees, students should also consider expenses related to study materials. On average, books and other study costs can range from A$500 to A$850 annually. The actual amount you spend on study materials depends on your course and whether you choose new or second-hand textbooks.

Plan Your Living Expenses in Brisbane Right 

Brisbane offers an attractive and affordable lifestyle for international students and residents alike. With the affordable cost of living in Brisbane, diverse culture, abundant sunshine, and the beautiful Brisbane River, the city has become a captivating choice for those seeking a vibrant yet relaxed way of life.

More about study in Australia:

• Study in Australia for Indian Students after 12th
• Requirements for Studying in Australia
• How to study in Australia from India
• How much Gap is acceptable for study in Australia
• Masters in Australia
• MS in Australia Cost
• Study in Australia
• MBA in Australia
• MBA in Australia without GMAT