BrisbanevsDubai
Overall
💰-2.4%
Brisbane is 2.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠+15.4%
Housing is 15.4% higher
Dining
🍽️-6.3%
Restaurants 6.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-10.3%
Food shopping 10.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Brisbane, Australia and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Brisbane is more affordable than Dubai by approximately 2.4%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Brisbane are lower than in Dubai by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Brisbane's city center costs around A$2,200, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Brisbane costs about the same compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Brisbane versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Brisbane is more affordable, with monthly passes at A$175 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Grocery shopping in Brisbane is more expensive by approximately 11%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Brisbane can expect to spend approximately A$791 per month (excluding rent), while in Dubai, the same lifestyle would cost around AED 2,334. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,769 monthly in Brisbane versus AED 8,169 in Dubai. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Dubai to Brisbane, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Brisbane to Dubai requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Brisbane
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brisbane more expensive than Dubai?
The cost of living in Brisbane and Dubai is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Brisbane compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 98% of your Dubai salary when living in Brisbane. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $48,810 in Brisbane for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Brisbane and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 13%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Dubai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Brisbane provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Brisbane if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Brisbane vs Dubai?
In Brisbane, a single person needs approximately A$2,491 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about A$5,569. In Dubai, these figures are AED 7,334 for singles and AED 18,169 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Brisbane and Dubai in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Dubai to maintain your lifestyle from Brisbane
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