Melbourne vs Sydney: Cost of Living Compared

Melbourne is roughly 15% cheaper overall — about $2,111 versus $2,431 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,744 in Melbourne against $2,450 in Sydney. Melbourne scores higher on safety (79 vs 78/100).

City Comparer

Melbourne, Australia
MelbourneAustralia
Sydney, Australia
SydneyAustralia
95%overall match
Sydney leads in surfingSydney leads in divingMelbourne leads in bikeability
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
MelbourneSydney
Daily Cost$70/day
$81/day
Monthly Cost$2,111
$2,431
Rent$1,200
$1,500
Safety79
78
Healthcare72
75
Air Quality92
85
Tourist Safety85
85
Disaster Risk30
28
Winter High58°F
66°F
Summer High79°F
77°F
Sunny Days321
344
Rainy Days121
118
Nightlife70
78
Food80
85
Culture78
82
Coffee Culture95
96
Veg Friendly80
82
Late Night3/6
3/6
Cleanliness80
80
Green Spaces80
82
Hiking85
80
Beaches85
92
Surfing60
80
Skiing30
25
Diving40
60
Yoga70
72
Running80
82
Sports88
90
Bikeability60
45
Internet164 Mbps
164 Mbps
Transit75
78
Walkability70
68
Cowork Spaces80
95
Power Reliability100
100

Melbourne vs Sydney FAQ

Is Melbourne or Sydney cheaper to live in?

Melbourne is cheaper — about $2,111 per month versus $2,431, a difference of roughly 15%.

Is Melbourne or Sydney safer?

Melbourne scores higher: 79/100 versus 78/100.

Which has faster internet, Melbourne or Sydney?

Both average about 164 Mbps.