🇦🇺 Cost of Living in Canberra - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$72,111 (2024)
Inflation Rate3.2% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$6,980 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend15.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.1% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Canberra is generally considered to be moderate to expensive, with daily budgets ranging from $80-150 USD per day for backpackers to $250-400 USD per day for those seeking a more comfortable experience.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate to Expensive
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$80-150 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-300 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$250-400 USD
CurrencyAUD
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Canberra?
Canberra, the capital city of Australia, has a cost of living that is comparable to other major cities in the country, such as Sydney and Melbourne. However, it is generally considered to be slightly more affordable than these cities, with lower housing costs and a more laid-back atmosphere. Compared to global averages, Canberra is still a relatively expensive city, but it offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a high standard of living. Overall, visitors and residents can expect to pay a premium for goods and services in Canberra, but the city's many free attractions and outdoor spaces help to offset these costs.
In terms of regional comparisons, Canberra is more expensive than many other cities in Australia, such as Adelaide and Hobart, but it is still more affordable than some of the larger cities, such as Sydney and Brisbane. The city's proximity to the Australian Alps and the coast also makes it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who may be willing to pay a premium for the opportunity to enjoy the city's many natural attractions.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$30-60
typical quality, shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$100-200
what to expect, private bathroom and amenities
Luxury/Resort
$250-400
what to expect, high-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$1,500-3,000
city center vs outside, 1-2 bedrooms
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$10-20
Casual Restaurant
$20-40
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$60-100
Fine Dining
$150-250
Beer (local)
$8-12
Coffee
$4-6
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-4
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-4
Taxi (per km)
$2-5
Domestic flight
$100-300
Fuel (per liter)
$1-2
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
1,200
2,000
3,500
Food
600
1,000
1,500
Transport
100
200
300
Utilities
150
250
350
Entertainment
200
400
600
Total
2,250
3,950
6,250
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting Canberra during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid peak tourist prices and take advantage of more affordable accommodation options.
Take advantage of the city's many free attractions, such as the National Museum of Australia and the Australian War Memorial.
Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to save on transport costs.
Eat at local eateries or food trucks instead of mid-range restaurants to save on food costs.
Look for discounts or package deals on accommodation and tourist attractions to save even more.
Consider sharing an apartment or house with others to split the cost of rent and utilities.