Margaret River, AustraliaCost of Living in Margaret River
Summary: If you're moving to Margaret River, understanding the the cost of living in Margaret River helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
| Apartment Rentals | The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Margaret River is $250 per week. Two-bedroom apartments typically rent for around $320 per week. Three-bedroom apartments typically rent for around $400 per week. |
| Apartment Purchases | The median price for a one-bedroom apartment in Margaret River is $250,000. Two-bedroom apartments typically cost around $320,000. Three-bedroom apartments typically cost around $400,000. |
| Transportation | Public transportation in Margaret River is limited. The bus service runs from Monday to Saturday and costs $2.50 per trip. Taxis are also available and typically cost around $20 for a one-way trip. |
| Groceries | The cost of groceries in Margaret River is comparable to other cities in Australia. A loaf of bread typically costs around $3.50, a liter of milk costs around $1.50, and a dozen eggs costs around $4.50. |
| Restaurants | The cost of eating out in Margaret River varies depending on the type of restaurant. A meal at a fast food restaurant typically costs around $10, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around $30. |
| Utilities | The cost of utilities in Margaret River is comparable to other cities in Australia. The average cost of electricity is around $200 per month, while the average cost of water is around $50 per month. |
| Private School Tuition | The cost of private school tuition in Margaret River varies depending on the school. Preschool tuition typically costs around $2,000 per year, while elementary school tuition typically costs around $4,000 per year. Middle school tuition typically costs around $6,000 per year, and high school tuition typically costs around $8,000 per year. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Margaret River
"The cost of living in Margaret River is considered to be relatively high compared to other parts of the country. Housing is the biggest expense, with the cost of buying a home being significantly higher than the national average. Renting is also quite expensive, especially for larger properties. Groceries and dining out in Margaret River can also be quite costly, with prices being higher than in many other parts of Australia. This is partly due to the region's focus on high-quality, locally-sourced produce. Transportation costs can also add up, especially if you need to commute to work or school. While public transportation is available, many residents find it more convenient to own a car, which adds the costs of fuel, maintenance, and insurance. Healthcare in Margaret River is generally of a high standard, but it can be expensive if you don't have private health insurance. Despite the high cost of living, many residents feel that the benefits of living in Margaret River, such as its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly community, and high-quality food and wine, make it worth the expense," said one expat living in Margaret River.
Can I live in Margaret River on $1,500 a month?
"I've been living in Margaret River for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a place to live that's affordable. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods to avoid would be Prevelly and Gnarabup, as they are closer to the beach and have higher rental prices. Instead, consider looking for a place in the town center or in the surrounding suburbs like Cowaramup or Witchcliffe, where you can find more affordable housing options.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your spending on utilities and groceries. To save on electricity, try to use energy-efficient appliances and be conscious of your usage. For groceries, shop at local markets and discount stores like ALDI, and try to cook at home as much as possible instead of eating out.Transportation can also be a significant expense, so consider using public transport or carpooling with coworkers to save on fuel costs. If you're able to, biking or walking to work can also help you save money and stay fit.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Margaret River. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches, go for hikes in the national parks, or attend community events and festivals. However, you might have to cut back on more expensive activities like wine tasting tours or dining at high-end restaurants.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Margaret River is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being conscious of your utility and grocery spending, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Margaret River.
Can I live in Margaret River on $3,500 a month?
"I've been living in Margaret River for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living here is generally higher than in other parts of Australia, but it's still manageable if you're smart about your spending.Firstly, you'll want to find an affordable place to live. Some of the more expensive neighborhoods in Margaret River include Prevelly, Gnarabup, and Gracetown. These areas are closer to the beach and have some amazing views, but the rent can be quite high. I'd recommend looking for a place in the more affordable neighborhoods like Witchcliffe, Cowaramup, or Karridale. You can find decent houses or apartments for rent in these areas for around $1,500 to $2,000 a month.When it comes to groceries and eating out, you'll want to be mindful of your spending. There are some great local markets where you can buy fresh produce at a reasonable price, like the Margaret River Farmers Market. For eating out, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants in town, but some can be quite pricey. I'd recommend trying out some of the more affordable options like The Hairy Marron, The Bakery, or Swings Taphouse & Kitchen.Transportation costs can also add up, especially if you're planning on exploring the region. Public transport is limited in Margaret River, so you'll likely need a car. If you're on a tight budget, consider buying a used car or sharing rides with friends or coworkers. Also, make sure to take advantage of the beautiful walking and cycling trails in the area to save on fuel costs.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Margaret River. The region is famous for its beautiful beaches, so you can spend your weekends surfing, swimming, or just relaxing by the ocean. There are also numerous national parks and nature reserves nearby, like Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, where you can go hiking or have a picnic. If you're into wine, you can visit some of the local wineries for free tastings, but be prepared to spend a bit more if you want to buy a bottle to take home.In conclusion, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in Margaret River is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, being smart about your grocery and dining choices, and taking advantage of the free or low-cost activities in the area, you can enjoy a great quality of life in this beautiful region," said one expat living in Margaret River.
Can I live in Margaret River on $5,000 a month?
"I've been living in Margaret River for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you're used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices to make it work. For example, you might not be able to afford a large, luxurious house in the most expensive neighborhoods, but you can still find a nice, comfortable place to live in more affordable areas.One of the more affordable neighborhoods I'd recommend is West Margaret River. It's a bit further from the town center, but it's still close to all the amenities you'd need, like supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants. Plus, the houses there are generally more affordable than in other parts of town. On the other hand, I'd probably avoid neighborhoods like East Margaret River and Gnarabup, as they tend to be more expensive.In terms of other sacrifices, you might have to cut back on eating out at fancy restaurants or going on expensive trips every weekend. But there are still plenty of affordable activities to enjoy in the area, like hiking, surfing, and visiting local wineries. And if you're willing to cook at home more often, you can save quite a bit on food expenses.Overall, I think it's definitely possible to live comfortably in Margaret River on $5,000 a month, as long as you're willing to make a few adjustments to your lifestyle. The natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the area more than make up for any sacrifices you might have to make," commented an expat living in Margaret River.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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