Are you planning to move to the capital of South Australia? You’ll be pleased to know that the cost of living in Adelaide isn’t too high! If you lead a simple lifestyle and manage your budget well, approximately AUD 1,300 per month should be sufficient.
Compared to other cities in Australia, Adelaide is much more affordable. The cost of living in Adelaide is 15% lower than in Melbourne and 30% lower than in Sydney. Even better, this city offers a high quality of life and an active lifestyle.
Want to know more? Get comfortable and start reading.
Note: Figures in this article are approximate and may vary.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Adelaide?
If you’re a budget-conscious person, you’ll be glad to hear that living in Adelaide is quite affordable! On average, the cost of living in Adelaide ranges from AUD 1,270 to AUD 3,800 per month (USD 840 to USD 2,512), which is lower compared to other major Australian cities.
For example, living in Sydney requires between AUD 2,500 and AUD 5,000 per month (USD 1,653 to USD 3,305), while relocating to Brisbane or Melbourne could cost up to AUD 3,000 per month (USD 1,983). This is why students and workers often choose Adelaide when moving to Australia.
Let’s break down the main areas that make up the cost of living in Adelaide—housing, groceries, transportation, utilities, and popular leisure activities. Get your calculator ready!
Accommodation
When calculating how much it costs to live in Adelaide, housing is a key factor. On average, housing costs range from AUD 150 to AUD 600 weekly (USD 99 to USD 398), depending on whether you live alone or share a place with roommates.
Housing prices also vary by neighborhood. In the city center (City) and the Adelaide Hills area, rent averages around AUD 613 per week (USD 406), whereas in northern suburbs, you might pay around AUD 529 per week (USD 351).
Consider these neighborhoods for affordable and convenient living in Adelaide:
- Black Forest.
- Henley Beach.
- Kensington.
- Moana.
- North Adelaide.
- North Brighton.
- Norwood.
- Walkerville.
Basic Grocery Shopping
For groceries, you’ll need between AUD 60 and AUD 200 weekly (USD 40 to USD 133), although prices may vary depending on your diet. Simple meals at restaurants range from AUD 15 to AUD 30 (USD 10 to USD 20).
Here’s an idea of average food prices:
- Dozen eggs: AUD 6 (USD 4).
- Whole milk (1L): AUD 2 (USD 1).
- Apples (1kg): AUD 5 (USD 4).
- Bread (for two): AUD 2 (USD 1).
- Potatoes (1kg): AUD 3 (USD 2).
- Chicken breast (500g): AUD 7 (USD 5).
- Cheese (500g): AUD 11 (USD 7).
- Tomatoes (1kg): AUD 7 (USD 5).
To save on the cost of living in Adelaide, shop at these supermarkets:
- Aldi.
- Coles.
- IGA.
- Woolworths.
Transportation
Transportation is another part of the cost of living in Adelaide to consider. A monthly pass for buses, trains, or trams costs AUD 116 (USD 77) and is added to your metroCARD, which works across all transport modes.
The metroCARD costs AUD 3.50 (USD 2.31), with an initial minimum recharge of AUD 5 (USD 3.30).
If you’re studying in Adelaide, you’re eligible for a discounted pass! Students pay only AUD 58 (USD 39) monthly for unlimited travel.
Basic Utilities
Utility costs (water, electricity, and gas) depend on usage and your accommodation type. Expect to pay between AUD 140 and AUD 200 per month (USD 93 to USD 133). In some cases, utilities are included in the rent.
Don’t forget to add internet costs when calculating the cost of living in Adelaide. Monthly internet plans average AUD 60 to AUD 80 (USD 40 to USD 53) depending on speed. Additionally, there are over 250 free Wi-Fi zones throughout the city.
Mobile phone plans cost about AUD 40 to AUD 100 per month (USD 27 to USD 67). Upon arrival, compare operators and ask about any available discounts.
Leisure Activities and Entertainment
Since life isn’t all about studying and working, we had to include a section on activity costs in this guide to the cost of living in Adelaide. The city offers a fantastic range of leisure activities, so you can be sure each day will be fun and exciting.
- Movie ticket: AUD 20 (USD 14). Some venues offer student discounts.
- Night out at a bar or club: AUD 50 to AUD 150 (USD 34 to USD 100).
- Adelaide Botanic Garden visit: free.
- Adelaide Zoo visit: AUD 46 (USD 31). Student discounts available.
- Art Gallery of South Australia: free entry, though some exhibits may charge a fee.
- Central Market visit: free.
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