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Living in Australia: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Australia | Expat Exchange
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Night Noodle Market at Hyde Park in Sydney

Living in Australia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 02, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Australia is 25 million people. The largest cities in Australia are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. Expats love living in Australia for its laid-back lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and diverse culture. People describe life in Australia as relaxed, friendly, and vibrant. Popular foods in Australia include barbecued meats, seafood, and salads. Vegemite is also a popular spread. The cons of living in Australia include the high cost of living, the long distances between cities, and the hot climate in some areas. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,500 to $3,500 USD per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.

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What do I need to know about living in Australia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Australia, they said:

"It is ranked as the world's most livable city. Many expats travel the world and end up here," explained one expat living in Melbourne, Australia.

"There is always something going on here, no matter the time of year. Coming to Adelaide is an adjustment just like moving anywhere else would be, but there are plenty of opportunities to meet people and do things," said one expat in Adelaide.

"Before retiring in Australia, expats should be aware of the country's relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, as well as its hot and humid climate. They should also take time to research the cost of living in the area they intend to retire to, as well as whether they need to acquire any special visa or work permits. In addition, expats should research the local laws and tax regulations in Australia, to ensure they are prepared for their retirement. Any health care needs should also be considered when considering retirement in Australia, as expats should ensure they will have access to quality healthcare. Finally, those considering retiring in Australia should research any local clubs, organisations or activities that can help them make connections and settle into a new home," said one expat who made the move to Australia.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

Night Noodle Market at Hyde Park in Sydney

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