Brisbane Cost of Living 2026 — What It Really Costs to Live in Queensland's Capital

Brisbane Cost of Living 2026 — Overview

Brisbane has historically offered a significant cost of living advantage over Sydney and Melbourne, but this advantage has narrowed substantially in recent years as the city's rapid population growth and 2032 Olympics infrastructure investment have pushed housing costs higher. Brisbane remains more affordable than Sydney for most cost categories, but the gap is smaller than it was pre-2020. The city's warm climate also reduces heating costs, and Queensland's lower state taxes (no land tax for owner-occupiers below the threshold) provide some financial relief.

Brisbane Rent Costs 2026

• 1-bedroom apartment (inner Brisbane) — $350-$600 per week in New Farm, Fortitude Valley, Paddington or South Brisbane.
• 2-bedroom apartment (inner-mid) — $450-$750 per week in the inner ring suburbs.
• 3-bedroom house (suburban) — $450-$750 per week in middle Brisbane suburbs (Aspley, Chermside, Sunnybank, Holland Park).
• Outer Brisbane and Logan — More affordable 3-bedroom houses in Logan, Ipswich, North Lakes and Springfield from $380-$550 per week.

Brisbane Grocery and Food Costs

• Weekly groceries (single person) — Approximately $70-$120 per week. Queensland's fresh produce, particularly tropical fruits, can provide affordable variety at the markets.
• Coffee — $4.80-$5.80 at a Brisbane cafe.
• Lunch — $12-$20 for a typical weekday lunch. South Bank, the CBD food courts and West End offer varied price points.
• Dinner (mid-range) — $22-$40 per person at a mid-range Brisbane restaurant.

Brisbane Transport Costs

• go card — Brisbane's Translink public transport (buses, trains, ferries) uses the go card. Standard adult fares from approximately $3.00 per trip; daily cap $10.80; weekly cap $54.00. The new Brisbane Metro is expanding BRT capacity.
• Car ownership — Queensland vehicle registration: approximately $600-$900 per year for a standard vehicle. CTP (compulsory third party) insurance bundled with registration in Queensland.

Utilities in Brisbane

Queensland's electricity market is partially regulated. Average household electricity: approximately $1,400-$2,200 per year (higher air conditioning usage in subtropical climate). Natural gas not as widely used as southern states. Internet: $70-$100 per month NBN.

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.