Los Angeles vs Melbourne

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Melbourne is roughly 48% more affordable than Los Angeles (index 48 vs 93, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Melbourne
More affordable overall
48% cheaper than Los Angeles · Cost index: 48 vs 93

Head-to-Head Stats

93Cost Index48
3,834Median Income /mo4,100
40Safety Index70
25Income Tax %32.5
242Internet (Mbps)70
300Coworking /mo240

Price Breakdown

Los AngelesCategoryMelbourne
$2,839/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
37% ← cheaper
$1,785/month
$1.6/liter
Meal for One
11% cheaper →
$1.8/liter
$16/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
16% cheaper →
$19/meal
$122/month
Monthly Transit Pass
6% ← cheaper
$115/month
$245/month
Utilities (Monthly)
6% ← cheaper
$230/month
$164/visit
Doctor Visit
27% ← cheaper
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Los Angeles

Internet242 Mbps
Coworking$300/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability69/100

Melbourne

Internet70 Mbps
Coworking$240/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability74/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Los Angeles cheaper than Melbourne?

Melbourne is cheaper than Los Angeles. Melbourne has a cost of living index of 48/100 compared to 93/100 for Los Angeles (New York = 100), making it roughly 48% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Melbourne than Los Angeles?

Melbourne is approximately 48% cheaper than Los Angeles based on cost index scores (48 vs 93, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Los Angeles could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,554/month in Melbourne.

What is the rent comparison between Los Angeles and Melbourne?

In Los Angeles, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,839/month. In Melbourne, the equivalent is around $1,785/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Los Angeles or Melbourne?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Los Angeles offers 242 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$300/month. Melbourne offers 70 Mbps and coworking at ~$240/month. Melbourne has a cost advantage of 48%.

What is the average income in Los Angeles vs Melbourne?

The median net monthly salary in Los Angeles is approximately $3,834 USD, compared to $4,100 USD in Melbourne.

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