What if you could pursue your education in a city that’s both a thriving metropolis and a nature lover’s paradise? Welcome to Brisbane, Australia’s rising star in international education.
Boasting two universities in the global top 200 according to QS rankings 2025 and a robust economy, Brisbane offers students an unparalleled blend of academic excellence and lifestyle perks. This article breaks down the cost of living for international students in Brisbane.
Whether you’re dreaming of top-notch education or seeking a unique cultural experience, understanding these financials is key to making an informed decision to study in Australia. Let’s dive into what it takes to call Brisbane your home away from home.
About Brisbane
Brisbane is one of the top student cities in the world ranking 22nd in the world according QS Student Cities Rankings 2025 for several good reasons. Like the city is home to 2 top 200 universities in the city. It is the third largest city in the country and the largest economy nationally. The city is also known as a popular tourist destination with the gold coast having some of the most iconic beaches.
The city is brimming with youth and life and offers a great balance between urban and outdoor lifestyles. The city has a great climate with a downtown area that offers a vibrant nightlife and arts scene for enthusiasts. All in all, the city offers a refreshing mix of opportunities to students on all fronts. But what is the cost of living in Australia, which is also the third most populated city, let’s find out.
Cost of Living in the City
Brisbane is one of the top student cities in the world as we have already seen but it is less affordable compared to other cities on the list, let’s take a look at the costs of living in the city for international students:
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Accommodation
A space to live and call their own is the primary and most important expense of living in the city. To study in Australia for international student, the cost of living in Brisbane’s university campuses for international students is in the range of AU$1,600 to AU$2,650 per month. It may include catering. For students that want to live off campus, the range of cost is AU$800 to AU$1,600 which does not include utilities.
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Food
The cost of food in the city for students ranges from AU$ 560 to AU$ 1,500 per month. Students that live on campus may save on this if they choose accommodation with catering.
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Utilities
Utilities like water and electricity cost extra that are not included in the rent whether the students are living on campus or off campus. The cost of utilities for students ranges from AU$150-AU$175 per month.
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Mobile Internet
Internet has now become a basic need for people around the world. It can be considered as one of the cost of education in Australia as it helps students with their studies and helps them to connect with their peers and family. The cost of internet in Brisbane ranges from AU$50 to AU$120 per month.
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Transport
The cost of transport in the city for international students living on campus would depend on how much they travel outside the campus. The cost for students living off campus may be more. The range of cost for transportation is AU$100 to AU$150.
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Insurance
Insurance is an essential expenditure for students that are living abroad as it helps in subsidizing the cost of health services in a country. There are many insurance companies in Australia that offer health insurance for students. The cost of health insurance for international students starts from AU$70 and may vary depending on the company and the policy.
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Miscellaneous
Apart from all the discussed expenses, there can be expenses that the students may or may not incur every month. So, it is important to have some money for unexpected situations or just for saving. There is no ideal amount but students can keep aside AU$500 per month for these expenses.
In summary, Brisbane stands out as an excellent destination for international students, combining top-tier education with an exciting lifestyle. While the cost of living may be a bit on the higher side compared to other student cities, the city’s vibrant culture, favourable climate, and diverse opportunities make it a worthwhile investment.
For those worried about their finances, overseas education loan experts are a valuable resource. They specialize in assisting students to secure funding, covering not just tuition but also the complete cost of education in Australia, including living expenses. With their help, students can plan effectively and manage their finances, making it easier to pursue their dreams of studying in a city like Brisbane without undue financial pressure.
