Perth Cost of Living: A Complete Guide – 2026

If you’re thinking about moving to Perth, planning your budget for life here, or just want to know how far your money will go in this lively city in Western Australia, we’ve got you covered. Perth has a sunny lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back vibe. Before you make the big move, though, you need to know how much it really costs to live there.

In this detailed guide, we’ll go over the significant expenses you can expect in 2026, including housing, food, transportation, utilities, healthcare, education, and entertainment. We want to deliver to you accurate, precise numbers so you can plan ahead and not be surprised.

Perth in 2026: A Snapshot of Everyday Life

Perth is the largest metropolis in Western Australia and one of the best places to live in the country. There are many reasons why people choose to live here: the economy is diverse, the job market is growing, and the scenery is beautiful.

But, like many big cities, the cost of living has risen over the last few years. If you’re moving to Perth from elsewhere, you may be shocked at how much more expensive housing and everyday essentials are.

This guide will help you estimate expenditures and see how much things really cost for different types of people, like students, singles, couples, and families.

1. Housing and Accommodation: Biggest Monthly Expense

1. Renting in Perth

Housing is the biggest portion of people’s monthly income. Today, Perth’s rental market is experiencing intense competition, which has driven rents up, and they will vary significantly based on property type, location, and size.

Here are the usual costs of renting:

• 1‑Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): AUD 1,500 – 1,800 per month
• 1‑Bedroom Apartment (Outside the City Centre): AUD 1,100 – 1,400 per month
• 2‑Bedroom Apartment: AUD 1,700 – 2,300 per month
• 3‑Bedroom House (Suburbs): AUD 1,700–2,500 per month

The most expensive areas to rent in Perth include the central business district (CBD), East Perth, and Subiaco, while lower-priced housing can be found in outlying suburbs. Those looking to save on rent have a decent chance of finding affordable rents in areas such as Joondalup, Baldivis, and Midland.

Depending on the area of the property and its quality, weekly rental prices for a standard two-bedroom house could range from around $650 to $900 or higher.

Many students and young professionals generally save money on rent by sharing a home with a friend or roommate.

2. Buying Property in Perth

Although home values have increased, buying a home in Perth is typically more affordable than buying one in Australia’s largest cities, such as Sydney or Melbourne.

• Apartment Prices (City Centre): Around AUD 5,000+ per square metre
• Houses (Suburbs): Around AUD 3,500–4,000+ per square metre

However, when you buy your house, you will incur additional costs for property insurance, mortgage interest, stamp duty, and council rates. It is essential to include these costs in your home’s budget.

Read More: How to Choose the Stress Free Small Office Removalists in Perth

2. Groceries & Food: Daily Household Needs

Food prices in Perth are different for each person based on where you shop and the brands you like. Knowing the real prices of groceries can help you make smart decisions about how to spend your money each month, whether it’s on basic foods or fresh fruits and vegetables. Here’s a brief look at how much most things cost every day.

1. Grocery Costs

Here are some examples of what groceries usually cost:

• Milk (1 L): AUD 2.30–2.50
• Bread (500 g): AUD 2.40–3.80
• Eggs (12): AUD 4.00–6.00
• Chicken Breast (1 kg): AUD 8.50–13.00
• Apples (1 kg): AUD 3.30–3.60
• Rice (1 kg): AUD 1.80 – 2.50

A single person usually spends between AUD 80 and 120 a week on food, while a couple might spend between AUD 150 and 250. Families with kids will need to plan their budgets accordingly. Depending on their eating habits, food expenses can cost up to AUD 300 or more per week.

Shop at larger stores, buy in bulk, and select store-made items to save money on groceries.

2. Average Dining Cost

Perth has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and local markets to get food, so there is something for everyone. The variety is excellent, but eating out a lot can quickly add up to a lot of money each month. Knowing the average prices helps you find a good balance between cost and convenience.

Prices for meals on average:

• Casual Meal (Budget Restaurant): AUD 15–25
• Mid‑Range Restaurant Meal (Per Person): AUD 40 – 80
• Coffee (Cappuccino / Flat White): AUD 4–6.50
• Beer (local 500 ml): AUD 7–11

If you like to eat out a lot or have dinner with friends, you should keep aside AUD 200-400 a month for food and drinks.

3. Getting Around Perth – Transportation

Perth has a reliable mix of buses, trains, and ferries that make it easy to get around the city. How often you travel and whether you prefer to drive or take public transportation will affect how much you spend on it. Knowing what things usually cost can help you better plan your monthly budget.

1. Public Transport

Perth has a good range of buses, trains, and ferries, making it easy to get around without a car.

• One‑Way Public Transport Ticket: AUD 3 – 5
• Monthly Transport Pass: AUD 90–150

For individuals who commute to work or school daily, a monthly pass is typically the most cost-effective option.

2. Vehicles and Fuel

For those preferring private transport, the usual rates are:

• Fuel (Petrol) per Litre: AUD 1.60–2.00
• Taxi / Rideshare (per km): AUD 2.80–3.50 + flag‑down fare

If you own a vehicle in Perth, you will need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance, maintenance, and parking fees, and many people who use their cars regularly allocate AU$200-400 each month for gas and other associated costs.

4. Utilities—Electricity, Internet & Phone Bills

If you live in Perth, you need to pay your utility bills every month. The number of people in your home and how you live will affect your final costs. You should expect these regular costs, whether you keep the lights on or use excessive data. The general lowest price an average household pays:

Average Monthly Bills:

• Electricity, Water & Gas: AUD 90–150
• Internet (Unlimited Broadband): AUD 55–100
• Mobile Phone Plan: AUD 30–50

Since your provider and how you use the service affect the total cost, you should compare plans to find the one that costs the least.

5. Healthcare and Insurance

When considering healthcare costs in Australia (Perth), you should always plan so that by the time you need access to healthcare services, there isn’t a financial burden on you at that point. Medicare (the healthcare system) takes care of the basic healthcare needs, but in most instances, people will be required to pay for private treatment, specialisation, or medications.

Average costs:

• Doctor Visit (General Practitioner): AUD 55–80
• Private Health Insurance: AUD 100–300 per month
• Pharmacy/Personal Care: Variable based on needs

For all these quoted prices, you should include a yearly budget that covers expected annual visits to your dentist, regular check-ups, and your health care premiums if you live with a dependant or dependents who have ongoing medical needs.

6. Education and Childcare – Costs for Parents

When families move to Perth, they often spend a lot of time picking the right school and crèche. Public schools are cheap, but private schools and daycare can cost a lot of money each month. Planning for these costs ahead of time makes it easier to keep your family’s budget in check.

Standard costs:

• Childcare / Daycare (Monthly): AUD 1,500 – 2,000+
• Private School (Annual): AUD 13,000+

These numbers change depending on where you live, which school you choose, and which course you are planning to pursue. Planning for school costs can have a big effect on your family’s finances.

7. Entertainment & Lifestyle

There are so many fun things to do in Perth, from surfing at sunset to cosy indoor places. You can enjoy many things for free, but going out often will definitely affect your monthly budget. By writing down these typical costs, you can enjoy the city’s way of life without worrying about money.

Common costs:

• Cinema Ticket: AUD 15–20
• Gym Membership (Monthly): AUD 40–60
• Bar Drinks / Cocktails: AUD 10–15
• Outdoor Activities (e.g., surf lessons, tours): Variable

If you want to keep up an active social life, you should set aside at least AUD 150-300 a month for entertainment that isn’t necessary.

Read More: How to Choose the Best Fridge Movers in Perth

Monthly Budget Examples—What People Really Spend

Costs are different for everyone, but knowing how much people usually spend can help you get your finances in order before you move. These examples show how much singles, couples, and families in Perth usually pay each month. Use them to get a better idea of how much it will cost you to live.

Single Person (Living Solo)

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost
Rent (1‑BR outside centre)	AUD 1,100 – 1,400
Groceries	AUD 350–600
Utilities & Internet	AUD 150–230
Transport	AUD 90–150
Entertainment & Dining	AUD 120–250
Healthcare / Misc	AUD 100–180
Total Estimated Range	AUD 1,910 – 2,810+

Couple or Shared Accommodation

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost
Rent (2‑BR outside centre)	AUD 1,700–2,300
Groceries	AUD 700–1,000
Utilities & Internet	AUD 170–260
Transport	AUD 150–250
Entertainment & Dining	AUD 200–400
Total Estimated Range	AUD 2,920 – 4,210+

Small Family (3‑4 People)

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost
Rent (3‑BR outside centre)	AUD 1,700 – 2,500
Groceries & Food	AUD 900–1,400
Utilities & Internet	AUD 250–350
Transport	AUD 250–400
Childcare & Schooling	AUD 1,500 – 2,200
Entertainment & Misc	AUD 300–600
Total Estimated Range	AUD 4,900 – 7,450+

Cost Trends for 2026 in Perth

The cost of living in Perth is constantly changing, and some areas are going up faster than others. You can better estimate how your costs will change over the next year if you know what’s happening now. Here’s a brief look at what makes prices go up and down:

• Housing costs have increased, mainly due to strong rental demand and limited vacancies.
• Grocery prices have risen moderately, much like in other parts of Australia.
• Utility bills and transport expenses are stable but still major parts of the budget.

Despite price increases, Perth remains more affordable than both Sydney and Melbourne in several categories, continuing to appeal to individuals seeking a balance of lifestyle, enjoyment, and cost.

Smart Ways to Save Money in Perth

Living in Perth is great, but it’s easy to get caught up in your spending on a daily basis if you don’t pay attention. You can save a lot of money every month if you make a few smart choices and plan ahead. Here are some good ways to save money while still having fun in the city.

• Choose Affordable Suburbs – Rent costs in the city centre can be extremely high, so consider renting in a more affordable area near good public transport options.
• Take Public Transportation – Public transportation passes are usually a lot cheaper than driving, especially when you add in the cost of gas and parking.
• Cook at Home – You can save up to 30% on groceries by cooking at home and shopping smartly, rather than eating out all the time.
• Review Service Plans – You can always get the most for your money by regularly comparing your internet, phone, and insurance plans.
• Share Costs – Sharing rent or subscriptions (such as for family internet services or Netflix) can help you save money.

Read More: Canberra Cost of Living Guide: From Rent to Transport and Daily Expenses

Final Thoughts—Planning Your Move to Perth in 2026

If you live in Perth, you can enjoy a life full of sunshine, but you need to keep up with changes in the economy. Anyone who wants to live a good life while also paying for modern things needs to be careful with their money.

Working with experienced Movers Perth would make your trip easier. When you hire a reputable company like “Team Removals“ to help you move, you can relax because their experts will handle the heavy lifting and logistics with ease.

A stress-free move is possible if you make a good financial plan and hire trustworthy help. This proactive approach gives you the confidence to move to the city and enjoy the best of Perth without worrying.