PerthvsBrisbane
Overall
💰+2.5%
Perth is 2.5%more expensive
Rent
🏠+12.1%
Housing is 12.1% higher
Dining
🍽️-2.4%
Restaurants 2.4% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+4.0%
Food shopping 4.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Perth, Australia and Brisbane, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Perth is more expensive than Brisbane by approximately 2.5%. 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 Perth are lower than in Brisbane by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Perth's city center costs around A$1,900, while the same in Brisbane is approximately A$2,200.
Dining out in Perth costs about the same compared to Brisbane. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$22 in Perth versus A$20 in Brisbane.
Public transportation in Perth is more affordable, with monthly passes at A$160 compared to A$175 in Brisbane.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Perth can expect to spend approximately A$800 per month (excluding rent), while in Brisbane, the same lifestyle would cost around A$791. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,801 monthly in Perth versus A$2,769 in Brisbane. 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
Perth
Brisbane
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Perth more expensive than Brisbane?
The cost of living in Perth and Brisbane 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 Perth compared to Brisbane?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.0x of your Brisbane salary when living in Perth. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brisbane, you'd need about $51,250 in Perth for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Perth and Brisbane?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 11%, 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 Perth if you prioritize earning potential, or Brisbane for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Perth vs Brisbane?
In Perth, a single person needs approximately A$2,300 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about A$5,201. In Brisbane, these figures are A$2,491 for singles and A$5,569 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Perth and Brisbane 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 Brisbane to maintain your lifestyle from Perth
Calculate Salary Equivalence