Hobart Cost of Living Breakdown: Rent, Bills, Transport & More

Hobart, the historic capital of Tasmania, is not just the island’s largest city but also one of Australia’s hidden gems. The city “Hobart” is located between the River Derwent and Mount Wellington and offers an incredible combination of beautiful scenery, culture, and a relaxed way of living. Hobart is smaller than Sydney and Melbourne, so people can live at a much more ‘livable’ pace. 

Hobart can provide people with a sense of community, which is often lost in larger cities, and combined with affordable housing, makes Hobart an excellent option for singles, couples, families, or retirees.

Hobart’s cost of living is an essential factor to consider if you are thinking about moving to Hobart, so you can budget appropriately and plan accordingly. In this guide, we will look at the main types of expenses you will incur in Hobart, including housing, utilities, food, transportation, health care, education, and lifestyle (entertainment), along with tips for saving money while enjoying your life in Hobart. We will also briefly discuss the type of Hobart mover or removalist you should hire for your move.

Why Hobart Is a Great Place to Live?

Hobart is unique among Australian capitals for its combination of affordability, natural surroundings, and quality of life. Here’s why many people are drawn to the city:

• Affordable Housing: While housing prices have risen in recent years, Hobart remains more affordable than Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, particularly in suburban areas.
• Safety and Community: The city boasts a low crime rate and tight-knit neighbourhoods, making it ideal for families.
• Access to Nature: Residents enjoy beaches, parks, and mountains within easy reach, offering endless outdoor activities.
• Cultural Scene: Hobart is home to galleries, museums, and a thriving food and wine culture. The city also hosts festivals like Mona Foma and Dark Mofo.
• Job Opportunities: While smaller than mainland cities, Hobart has growing opportunities in tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and education.

Moving to Hobart can be a refreshing change if you want to escape the hustle of larger cities without sacrificing amenities and lifestyle quality.

1. Housing Costs in Hobart

Housing is usually the largest monthly expense for most residents. Hobart’s housing market has been competitive, but it is still more affordable than other major capitals.

1. Renting in Hobart

Rent prices vary depending on location and property type. City centre apartments are pricier, while suburban options are more budget-friendly.

Current Rental Ranges (2026 estimates):

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): AUD 1,450–1,600 per month
• 1-Bedroom Apartment (Suburbs): AUD 1,000–1,200 per month
• 2-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): AUD 1,800–2,100 per month
• 2-Bedroom Apartment (Suburbs): AUD 1,400–1,650 per month
• 3-Bedroom Apartment (City Centre): AUD 2,000–2,300 per month
• 3-Bedroom Apartment (Suburbs): AUD 1,500–1,800 per month

Tips for Renting:

• Suburbs like Sandy Bay, North Hobart, and New Town are popular but can be more expensive.
• Outer suburbs like Kingston, Claremont, or Moonah tend to be more affordable while still within easy commuting distance.
• For singles or students, shared accommodation can reduce costs significantly.

2. Buying Property

Buying a home in Hobart requires a larger upfront investment, but it can be a smart long-term choice. Median house prices in Hobart typically range from AUD 650,000 to AUD 800,000, with premium suburbs exceeding AUD 1 million. Prices vary based on proximity to the city centre, waterfront access, and property size. While the upfront cost is higher, buying provides stability and an asset that may appreciate over time.

Why Do You Need to Hire a Professional Mover in Hobart?

If you’re relocating to Hobart or moving within the rest of Tasmania, the main concern will be how to transport your belongings safely and within budget. Hobart’s unique geography, narrow streets, weather patterns, and distance from mainland cities can complicate moving. That’s why smart people hire Team Removals, a professional moving team, to save time, money, and unnecessary stress.

An experienced local mover knows Hobart’s streets, suburbs, and logistical issues, so that you move smoothly from beginning to end. Team Removals has the right vehicles, tools, and experience to handle your move, including precious or bulky furniture with no fuss.

By Employing an Experienced Removalist Team, You Can Expect:

• Safe packing and protection for valuables, electronics, and glassware
• Safely transport furniture, appliances, and other large objects
• Liabilities and insurance, making you feel like all is well throughout your move

Whether you are relocating to a city apartment, a family home, or downsizing to a peaceful coastal suburb, leave the heavy lifting to professional movers and concentrate on settling into your new life in Hobart.

If you only have small removal tasks, single item deliveries, or are just moving down the road, a Man with a Van can be the solution. It’s perfect if you’re only moving a couple of things or coming into Hobart from a nearby Tasmanian town.

Hiring a professional mover in Hobart will make moving efficient, safe, and stress-free, whether it is a small or big move.

2. Utility and Household Expenses

After securing a home, your next significant monthly costs will be utilities and household services.

Typical Utility Costs in Hobart:

• Electricity, Gas, and Water: AUD 250–350 per month for a standard apartment
• Internet (Unlimited, 60+ Mbps): AUD 70–95 per month
• Mobile Phone Plan: AUD 30–45 per month

Winter months can increase heating costs, while summer may slightly increase electricity costs due to cooling. Choosing energy-efficient appliances and monitoring usage can help reduce bills.

3. Cost of Groceries in Hobart

If you cook at home, grocery costs are a daily must; the amounts will also depend on how and what you like to eat. And that means groceries can make a huge difference to the overall cost of living in Hobart. But, luckily, in Hobart, the average grocery bill is 9.81% lower than the rest of the country! A more detailed look at the costs of some commonly used items is listed below:

Grocery Items	Average Cost
Milk (regular), (1 liter)	AUD 2.83
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)	AUD 3.71
Rice (white), (1kg)	AUD 2.59
Eggs (regular) (12)	AUD 7.37
Fruits (1kg)	AUD 4.74
Vegetables	AUD 4.44

Meal Costs at Restaurants in Hobart

Hobart restaurants have something for everyone and offer a delightful dining experience for food lovers. Dining out in Hobart restaurants is very affordable; however, the cost will also depend on the type, style, and location of the restaurant, as well as the cuisine you choose.

Regular dining out is one factor that influences the cost of living in Hobart for everyone. Hobart restaurant prices are 1.59% lower than the national average, making it the best option for people who don’t like to cook at home. Here’s a rough idea of what you will pay for a meal in a restaurant in Hobart:

Types of Food at Hobart	Approximate Cost
Meal at Inexpensive Restaurant	AUD 28.00
Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-course meal for two people)	AUD 130
Pizza	$19
Dessert	$18.00

4. Transportation Costs

Hobart’s compact size makes it convenient to get around, but your transportation costs depend on your commuting preferences.

Public Transport:

• One-Way Ticket: AUD 3–5
• Monthly Pass: AUD 70–105

Car Ownership:

• Fuel Per Litre: AUD 1.60–1.80
• Insurance, Registration, and Maintenance: Variable depending on car type

Taxi and Ride-Share:

• Taxi Start: AUD 5–6.50
• Per Kilometre: AUD 3–4.50

Many residents also cycle or walk for short trips, saving money and staying active.

5. Healthcare Costs

Australia’s public healthcare system covers many essential medical services, but private health insurance provides quicker access and extra coverage.

Typical Costs:

• General Practitioner Visit: AUD 50–70 (out-of-pocket)
• Private Health Insurance: AUD 100–180 per month

Pharmacy and minor healthcare costs depend on individual needs.

6. Education and Childcare Costs

Families moving to Hobart must consider childcare and education expenses.

• Full-Time Childcare: AUD 800–1,800 per month
• Preschool/Kindergarten: AUD 1,500–3,000 per term (approx. 10–12 weeks)
• Private School Annual Fees: AUD 5,000–10,000+
• Public Schools are free, but may include uniforms, books, and excursions

Planning ahead is essential for families with young children.

7. Lifestyle, Entertainment, and Leisure

Hobart offers a variety of lifestyle options while remaining affordable compared to major cities.

Typical Expenses:

• Gym Membership: AUD 35–50 per month
• Cinema Ticket: AUD 15–20
• Haircut: AUD 16–30
• Jeans: AUD 60–90
• Outdoor Activities: Mostly free or low-cost

Hobart’s festivals, art galleries, and markets provide rich cultural experiences without breaking the bank.

Cost of Living in Hobart vs Other Cities

Hobart is generally considered a moderately affordable city to live in compared to other cities or states in Australia. When we speak about the cost of living in Hobart compared to other cities, it is based on several factors, such as average income, rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. Tasmania is still an appealing choice in Australia for those who want a more relaxed balance of the good life, without necessarily racking up extreme living costs.

So, just to give you an example of what the cost of living in Hobart is like compared to other cities such as Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth. Belew, we’ve included the cost of living in other cities.

Cost of Living City-Wise	Cost of Living City-Wise	Comparison with Cost of Living in Hobart, Australia
Cost of Living in Melbourne	AUD 1,592 (Excluding rent)	Higher than Hobart
Cost of Living in Sydney	AUD 1,724 (Excluding rent)	Higher than Hobart
Cost of Living in Adelaide	AUD 1,457 (Excluding rent)	Lower than Hobart
Cost of Living in Darwin	AUD 1,657 (Excluding rent)	Lower than Hobart

Monthly Cost of Living Breakdown

Single Person

Category	Approx. Cost (AUD)
Rent (1-bedroom outside centre)	AUD 1,100–1,200
Utilities	AUD 250–300
Groceries	AUD 400–500
Transport	AUD 70–100
Leisure & Misc	AUD 300–400
Total	2,120–2,500

Couple

Category	Approx. Cost (AUD)
Rent (2-bedroom outside centre)	AUD 1,600–2,000
Utilities	AUD 300–350
Groceries	AUD 700–850
Transport	AUD 140–180
Leisure & Misc	AUD 600–800
Total	AUD 3,340–4,230

Family of Four

Category	Approx. Cost (AUD)
Rent (3-bedroom outside centre)	AUD 1,500–1,800
Utilities	AUD 350–450
Groceries	AUD 1,000–1,400
Transport	AUD 200–300
Childcare / Education (Depends on the school or class)	1,000–1,800
Leisure & Misc	AUD 700–900
Total	AUD 4,750–6,650

Conclusion 

Before moving or settling in Hobart, knowing the cost of living is essential information. Hobart is known for its quality of life, with its multiculturalism, job opportunities, and close-knit community, but it is also considered pricier than many regional towns in Australia. Your rent, how you get around, the bills you spend, and what you consume can add up fast, making it a challenge to live comfortably. At Team Removals, their experienced team will take care of everything from loading to arrival with the utmost precision and organisation. This enables you to focus on adjusting to your new home without stressing about the move’s details.

Read More: Adelaide Cost of Living Breakdown: From Rent to Transport and Daily Expenses in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How much does it cost to live in Hobart per month?

Ans: The total cost of living in Hobart for a single person is around AUD 2,120–2,500 per month. However, monthly expenses vary depending on an individual’s lifestyle and interests.

Q2: What is the Monthly Average Cost of two bedrooms apartment in Hobart?

Ans: The estimated cost of housing rent in the city ranges from AUD 1700 to AUD 3500.

Q3: Is Hobart expensive to live in?

Ans: The cost of living for one person in Hobart is about AUD 1,790 per month. That figure is much lower than in other Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne, so living in Hobart is relatively cheap.

Q4: What is the average salary in Hobart?

Ans: According to Salary Expert – an ERI company, the average annual salary in Hobart is about $83,770 AUD. These numbers are industry averages: pharmacists make about AUD 156,070, nurses around $105,672. Other common roles include personal trainers, making around AUD 66,466, bartenders at approximately AUD 49,301, and bank tellers earning about AUD 49,351 annually. These figures are indicative and can vary based on experience, employer, and industry.