How much does a month in Perth cost?

Hello, everyone! I'm Abby and I come from Malaysia. As an international student here in Perth, I  understand that managing one's budget and living expenses is a common concern. Hence, I'm excited to share my insights on budgeting with all of you, especially for our potential students in the future. 

If you're contemplating studying in this stunning city, it's essential to plan your budget wisely. Let's delve into a breakdown of the expenses you can anticipate when pursuing your education in Perth. 

Accommodation

Accommodation takes up the largest portion of my budget. The costs can vary significantly based on your preferences. On average, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can range from $350 to $350 per week. If you are on a tighter budget, I highly recommend a shared house near your campus, which can cost between $170 to $250 each week. 

Food

Food expenses in Perth range from budget-friendly to luxurious. Dining out at restaurants could cost between $20-$60 per meal To save money, consider cooking your meals, wioth grocery costs averaging around $200 to $300 per month.

Indulging in a brunch like this in Perth, with an approximate price range of $20 to $30 per person.

Birthday celebration with my friends at DoubleTree by Hilton Perth, with an estimated price of around $150 for four people without alcohol.

Transport

Perth boasts an efficient and popular public transportation system, Transperth. Our student-friendly public transport system provides a 40% discount on all public transport throughout Western Australia for international students, bringing costs down to approximately $80 to $100 monthly.

As of September 2024, Transperth offers concession fares to all international students who are enrolled in full-time studies at a Western Australian University or TAFE College. When using a Tertiary Smartrider, each journey is capped at a maximum fare of $2.16. Transperth also offers free public transport on Sundays. 

Students have the option to use ride sharing services instead of public transport. However, at around $20-$30 per ride depending on the distance of your journey, this can be quite expensive.

Entertainment and Activities

I highly recommend exploring the diverse sports and recreational activities available in Perth, ranging from gym fitness, HIIT, pilates, yoga, soccer, badminton, to tennis. A gym membership costs approx. $15 per week.

My friend and I at a Pilates class. Each session costs $30.

Perth offers a vibrant array of activities to ensure you prioritize your well-being alongside your studies. Club memberships can vary in cost. Most entry fees to museums and galleries are free, while wildlife parks may range from $10 to $30 per person. Outdoor activities like surfing or snorkeling might incur additional costs based on your preferences.

Mobile phone plans and internet

Most universities and student accommodation provide on-site Wi-Fi. I therefore recommended that you purchase a mobile phone plan that suits your data needs outside of your place of study and residence. Monthly plans typically range from $20 to $45, depending on your data usage and other requirements. 

Miscellaneous

Lastly, don't forget to allocate a budget for miscellaneous expenses like shopping and personal items, which can amount to about $100 to $200 per month. 

In total, a month in Perth can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 or more. It depends on your lifestyle and accommodation choices. Keep in mind that these estimates are approximate, and your actual expenses may vary.  

Perth's natural beauty and cultural offerings make it a fantastic destination worth exploring, and with careful planning, you can enjoy your study without breaking the bank. So, start budgeting and get ready for an unforgettable experience in this stunning Australian city!