Seattle vs Sydney

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Sydney is roughly 41% more affordable than Seattle (index 85 vs 144, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Sydney
More affordable overall
41% cheaper than Seattle · Cost index: 85 vs 144

Head-to-Head Stats

144Cost Index85
6,429Median Income /mo7,920
40Safety Index75
0Income Tax %32.5
150Internet (Mbps)92
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

SeattleCategorySydney
$2,365/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
11% ← cheaper
$2,100/month
$4.84/liter
Meal for One
67% ← cheaper
$1.6/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$99/month
Monthly Transit Pass
12% cheaper →
$112/month
$208/month
Utilities (Monthly)
5% cheaper →
$220/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
46% ← cheaper
$65/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Seattle

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Sydney

Internet92 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Seattle cheaper than Sydney?

Sydney is cheaper than Seattle. Sydney has a cost of living index of 85/100 compared to 144/100 for Seattle, making it roughly 41% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Sydney than Seattle?

Sydney is approximately 41% cheaper than Seattle based on cost index scores (85 vs 144, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Seattle could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,771/month in Sydney.

What is the rent comparison between Seattle and Sydney?

In Seattle, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,365/month. In Sydney, the equivalent is around $2,100/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Seattle or Sydney?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Seattle offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Sydney offers 92 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Sydney has a cost advantage of 41%.

What is the average income in Seattle vs Sydney?

The median net monthly salary in Seattle is approximately $6,429 USD, compared to $7,920 USD in Sydney.

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