BrisbanevsPerth
Overall
💰-2.4%
Brisbane is 2.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-10.8%
Housing is 10.8% lower
Dining
🍽️+2.5%
Restaurants 2.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒-3.8%
Food shopping 3.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Brisbane, Australia and Perth, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Brisbane is more affordable than Perth 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 higher than in Perth by 12%. A one-bedroom apartment in Brisbane's city center costs around A$2,200, while the same in Perth is approximately A$1,900.
Dining out in Brisbane costs about the same compared to Perth. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Brisbane versus A$22 in Perth.
Public transportation in Brisbane is more expensive, with monthly passes at A$175 compared to A$160 in Perth.
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 Perth, the same lifestyle would cost around A$800. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,769 monthly in Brisbane versus A$2,801 in Perth. 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 Perth 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 Perth 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
Perth
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brisbane more expensive than Perth?
The cost of living in Brisbane and Perth 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 Perth?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 98% of your Perth salary when living in Brisbane. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Perth, you'd need about $48,810 in Brisbane for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Brisbane and Perth?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 12%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Perth 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 Perth for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Brisbane vs Perth?
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 Perth, these figures are A$2,300 for singles and A$5,201 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Brisbane and Perth 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Perth to maintain your lifestyle from Brisbane
Calculate Salary Equivalence