SydneyvsLos Angeles
Overall
💰-2.2%
Sydney is 2.2%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-5.6%
Restaurants 5.6% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+3.5%
Food shopping 3.5% more
Comparing the cost of living between Sydney, Australia and Los Angeles, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Sydney is more affordable than Los Angeles by approximately 2.2%. 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 similar than in Los Angeles. A one-bedroom apartment in Sydney's city center costs around A$3,000, while the same in Los Angeles is approximately $2,800.
Dining out in Sydney costs about the same compared to Los Angeles. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs A$20 in Sydney versus $18 in Los Angeles.
Public transportation in Sydney is more expensive, with monthly passes at A$200 compared to $100 in Los Angeles.
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 Los Angeles, the same lifestyle would cost around $659. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about A$2,814 monthly in Sydney versus $2,305 in Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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
Los Angeles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sydney more expensive than Los Angeles?
The cost of living in Sydney and Los Angeles 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 Sydney compared to Los Angeles?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 98% of your Los Angeles salary when living in Sydney. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Los Angeles, you'd need about $48,913 in Sydney for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Sydney and Los Angeles?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 6%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Los Angeles 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 cultural experiences, or Los Angeles for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Sydney vs Los Angeles?
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 Los Angeles, these figures are $2,859 for singles and $6,305 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Sydney and Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles to maintain your lifestyle from Sydney
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