SydneyvsDublin
Overall
💰-8.9%
Sydney is 8.9%cheaper
Rent
🏠-2.5%
Housing is 2.5% lower
Dining
🍽️-11.1%
Restaurants 11.1% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-11.8%
Food shopping 11.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Sydney, Australia and Dublin, Ireland reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Sydney is more affordable than Dublin by approximately 8.9%. 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 Sydney are higher than in Dublin. A one-bedroom apartment in Sydney's city center costs around A$3,000, while the same in Dublin is approximately €2,000.
Dining out in Sydney is notably more expensive compared to Dublin. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Sydney versus €15 in Dublin.
Public transportation in Sydney is more expensive, with monthly passes at A$200 compared to €120 in Dublin.
Grocery shopping in Sydney is more expensive by approximately 13%. 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 Sydney can expect to spend approximately A$804 per month (excluding rent), while in Dublin, the same lifestyle would cost around €594. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,814 monthly in Sydney versus €2,078 in Dublin. 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 Dublin to Sydney, 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 Sydney to Dublin 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
Sydney
Dublin
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sydney more expensive than Dublin?
No, Sydney is approximately 8.9% cheaper than Dublin. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Sydney compared to Dublin?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 92% of your Dublin salary when living in Sydney. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dublin, you'd need about $45,918 in Sydney for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Sydney and Dublin?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 13%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Sydney offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Sydney provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Sydney if you prioritize earning potential, or Dublin for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Sydney vs Dublin?
In Sydney, a single person needs approximately A$3,004 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about A$6,614. In Dublin, these figures are €2,294 for singles and €4,978 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Sydney and Dublin 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 Dublin to maintain your lifestyle from Sydney
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