Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇦🇺 Melbourne vs 🇦🇺 Canberra

2026

Canberra is 3.7% more expensive
Category 🇦🇺 Melbourne 🇦🇺 Canberra Difference
Cost of Living 77.4 80.3 +3.7%
Rent 41.8 39.1 -6.5%
Groceries 93.3 96.7 +3.6%
Restaurants 66.7 70.2 +5.2%
Purchasing Power 137.8 130.8 -5.1%
Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

Add your salary for a personalized comparison

See exact tax differences, net income, and savings potential.

Explore
🇦🇺 Cost of Living in Melbourne
Explore
🇦🇺 Cost of Living in Canberra
Explore
🇦🇺 Should I Move to Melbourne?
Explore
🇦🇺 Should I Move to Canberra?

Tax Calculators

See detailed income tax brackets and net salary calculations for Melbourne and Canberra.