Is $100AUD Daily Enough to Live in Australia?

Whether $100 AUD (approximately $100 USD) daily is enough to live in Australia depends on where you reside and your lifestyle. This article will explore the cost of living in major cities versus regional areas, the basic expenses involved, and provide context for the feasibility of such an amount.

Major Cities vs. Regional Areas

Major metropolitan areas like Sydney and Melbourne have a higher cost of living compared to smaller towns and rural regions. In these bustling capitals, even basic necessities can prove costly:

Renting: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center could cost upwards of $2,500 AUD per month, or about $83 AUD per day. Food: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around $20-30 AUD. Transportation: Daily public transport can cost between $10-20 AUD in major cities.

Given these costs, $100 AUD daily is challenging, especially for other expenses like utilities and internet, which can add another $100-200 AUD per month. Thus, in major cities, the said amount is insufficient for a comfortable living.

Living in Regional Areas

In smaller towns or rural areas, the cost of living is more manageable, making $100 AUD daily more feasible. Here, rent is generally lower, and daily expenses can be reduced, making it more practical:

Renting: Shared accommodation can significantly lower monthly rent costs. Food: Grocery prices can be budgeted around $15-30 AUD per day. Transportation: Public transport can be cheaper, around $10-20 AUD per day in most regional areas. Utilities and Internet: Monthly costs for utilities and internet might range from $100-200 AUD.

In these regions, $100 AUD daily might be sufficient for a modest lifestyle, but it would still be a significant challenge to live comfortably.

Basic Expenses

Consider the following basic expenses:

Housing

As mentioned, housing costs vary significantly by area. Shared accommodation can greatly reduce monthly expenses.

Food

While grocery prices can be higher, budgeting around $15-30 AUD per day for groceries is reasonable. Dining out can be more expensive, with an inexpensive meal costing $20-30 AUD.

Transportation

Transportation costs can vary widely by city or town, but in major cities and regional areas alike, daily expenses are manageable at $10-20 AUD. Public transport often offers better deals, particularly for commuters.

Utilities and Internet

Utilities and internet costs in Australia can range from $100-200 AUD per month, depending on the package you choose and your living situation.

Lifestyle Considerations

Furthermore, consider additional lifestyle factors such as:

Dining Out

Eating out can be expensive, especially in capital cities. An inexpensive meal can still be around $20-30 AUD.

Entertainment

Entertainment and leisure activities can be quite varied, ranging from $10-50 AUD per day for a movie ticket or a day at a local park, to $200-300 AUD for a night out at an event or a restaurant in a major city.

Conclusion

In summary, $100 AUD daily may be sufficient in regional areas with a modest lifestyle, but it would likely be challenging to live comfortably in major Australian cities. If considering relocation, thorough research and careful budgeting based on specific areas and personal needs are essential. For a tourist, this amount might cover basic needs, but it would not offer a comfortable lifestyle, particularly in capital cities. In regional areas, with a conservative lifestyle, it could be possible to survive on this budget.