MelbournevsDoha
Overall
💰-23.5%
Melbourne is 23.5%cheaper
Rent
🏠-15.4%
Housing is 15.4% lower
Dining
🍽️-23.5%
Restaurants 23.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-25.0%
Food shopping 25.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Melbourne, Australia and Doha, Qatar reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Melbourne is more affordable than Doha by approximately 23.5%. 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 Melbourne are higher than in Doha by 18%. A one-bedroom apartment in Melbourne's city center costs around A$2,200, while the same in Doha is approximately QAR 7,000.
Dining out in Melbourne is notably more expensive compared to Doha. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Melbourne versus QAR 35 in Doha.
Public transportation in Melbourne is more affordable, with monthly passes at A$170 compared to QAR 200 in Doha.
Grocery shopping in Melbourne is more expensive by approximately 33%. 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 Melbourne can expect to spend approximately A$786 per month (excluding rent), while in Doha, the same lifestyle would cost around QAR 1,876. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,750 monthly in Melbourne versus QAR 6,566 in Doha. 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 Doha to Melbourne, 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 Melbourne to Doha 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
Melbourne
Doha
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melbourne more expensive than Doha?
No, Melbourne is approximately 23.5% cheaper than Doha. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Melbourne compared to Doha?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 81% of your Doha salary when living in Melbourne. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Doha, you'd need about $40,476 in Melbourne for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Melbourne and Doha?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 33%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Doha offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Melbourne provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Melbourne if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Doha for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Melbourne vs Doha?
In Melbourne, a single person needs approximately A$2,486 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about A$5,550. In Doha, these figures are QAR 6,376 for singles and QAR 15,566 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Melbourne and Doha in 2025 shows significant 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 Doha to maintain your lifestyle from Melbourne
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