Melbourne vs Victoria

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Victoria is roughly 23% more affordable than Melbourne (index 37 vs 48, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Victoria
More affordable overall
23% cheaper than Melbourne · Cost index: 37 vs 48

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

48Cost Index37
4,100Median Income /mo3,400
70Safety Index72
32.5Income Tax %20
70Internet (Mbps)95
240Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

MelbourneCategoryVictoria
$1,785/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
14% ← cheaper
$1,532/month
$1.8/liter
Meal for One
36% cheaper →
$2.8/liter
$19/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
24% cheaper →
$25/meal
$115/month
Monthly Transit Pass
47% ← cheaper
$61/month
$230/month
Utilities (Monthly)
15% ← cheaper
$195/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
20% cheaper →
$150/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Melbourne

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

Victoria

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Melbourne cheaper than Victoria?

Victoria is cheaper than Melbourne. Victoria has a cost of living index of 37/100 compared to 48/100 for Melbourne (New York = 100), making it roughly 23% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Victoria than Melbourne?

Victoria is approximately 23% cheaper than Melbourne based on cost index scores (37 vs 48, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Melbourne could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,302/month in Victoria.

What is the rent comparison between Melbourne and Victoria?

In Melbourne, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,785/month. In Victoria, the equivalent is around $1,532/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Melbourne or Victoria?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Melbourne offers 70 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$240/month. Victoria offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Victoria has a cost advantage of 23%.

What is the average income in Melbourne vs Victoria?

The median net monthly salary in Melbourne is approximately $4,100 USD, compared to $3,400 USD in Victoria.

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