MelbournevsDubai
Overall
💰-5.9%
Melbourne is 5.9%cheaper
Rent
🏠+15.4%
Housing is 15.4% higher
Dining
🍽️-11.8%
Restaurants 11.8% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-12.5%
Food shopping 12.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Melbourne, Australia and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Melbourne is more affordable than Dubai by approximately 5.9%. 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 lower than in Dubai by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Melbourne's city center costs around A$2,200, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Melbourne is notably more expensive compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Melbourne versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Melbourne is more affordable, with monthly passes at A$170 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Grocery shopping in Melbourne is more expensive by approximately 14%. 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 Dubai, the same lifestyle would cost around AED 2,334. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,750 monthly in Melbourne 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 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 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
Melbourne
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Melbourne more expensive than Dubai?
No, Melbourne is approximately 5.9% cheaper than Dubai. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Melbourne compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Dubai salary when living in Melbourne. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $47,222 in Melbourne for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Melbourne and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 14%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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, Melbourne provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Melbourne if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Melbourne vs Dubai?
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 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 Melbourne 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 Melbourne
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