What's the average monthly cost for a single person in Melbourne?

A single person in Melbourne can expect to spend between $2,100 and $3,500 AUD per month, including rent. This translates to roughly $1,400-$2,300 USD, depending on your lifestyle and housing choices. Excluding rent, your monthly expenses will fall around $1,350-$2,250 AUD ($900-$1,500 USD). Groceries for one person typically cost $450-$600 AUD ($300-$400 USD). Public transport, using a Myki card, might be $100-$150 AUD ($65-$100 USD) for daily commuting, while utilities (electricity, gas, internet) could be $200-$300 AUD ($130-$200 USD). For entertainment and dining out, budget another $400-$800 AUD ($260-$530 USD). Rent is your biggest variable, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averaging $2,500 AUD ($1,650 USD), while outer suburbs can be $1,800 AUD ($1,200 USD). To get a better handle on your budget, consider exploring suburbs slightly outside the immediate CBD for more affordable rent and still excellent public transport links.