Cost of living in Australia for South Africans
Get Your Free Australian Visa Eligibility Assessment
One of the first questions most South African families ask before committing to a move is simple: will we be better off financially in Australia than we are at home? The honest answer is that most everyday costs in Australia are higher in absolute terms than in South Africa, but they are matched by significantly higher wages, a stronger currency, and, for permanent residents, access to Medicare and subsidised education that reduce two of the largest household costs.
Housing
Rent and property prices vary enormously by city and by how close to the centre you choose to live. As a general pattern, Perth and Adelaide are noticeably more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, and regional centres, several of which also carry their own visa incentives under the Subclass 494, are more affordable again. Most new arrivals rent for the first year or two while they get to know a city before considering a purchase.
Groceries and everyday expenses
Day to day grocery and utility costs in Australia are generally higher than in South Africa in absolute rand or dollar terms, though the gap narrows once local wages are taken into account. Public transport, mobile and internet plans, and dining out are all noticeably more expensive than most South African cities, and new arrivals typically find their first few months involve some recalibration of everyday budgeting.
Healthcare and education
Permanent residents and Australian citizens are covered by Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare scheme, which materially reduces the cost of GP visits, hospital care and many prescriptions compared with South Africa’s largely private system. State primary and secondary schooling is free for citizens and permanent residents, and heavily subsidised in most cases, which is a significant saving for migrating families with school age children.
How Australian Shores helps
Beyond the visa application itself, our advisers regularly help South African families think through the cost of living trade-offs between cities, and connect clients with settlement resources once a visa is granted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Australia more expensive than South Africa?
In absolute terms, yes, most everyday costs are higher, but Australian wages are also considerably higher, and permanent residents gain access to Medicare and subsidised schooling, both of which are significant costs in South Africa’s largely private systems.
Which Australian city is most affordable for South African migrants?
Perth and Adelaide are generally more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne, and regional centres are more affordable again, with several also offering their own visa incentives under the Subclass 494.
Not sure what visa is right for you?
Take our online eligibility assessment or get in touch with our team!
