Living costs for international students in Perth (2026)
Perth offers some of the lowest student living costs of any major Australian city:
- Accommodation — AUD 180–260/week (shared flat in inner/mid suburbs)
- Groceries — AUD 75–120/week
- Transport — AUD 25–40/week (Transperth SmartRider, with student concession fares)
- Total (excluding tuition) — Approximately AUD 1,700–2,400/month
Affordable areas for students include Bassendean, Midland, Armadale, and Fremantle. The Fremantle line and Joondalup line make it easy to live further from the CBD while staying connected by rail.
Why study in Perth?
- University of Western Australia (UWA)— A Group of Eight research university ranked in the world's top 100. Curtin University is a major technology university with global partnerships.
- Lowest living costs — Rent in Perth is noticeably cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne, with good-quality share housing available from AUD 180/week.
- Mining and resources sector— Western Australia is the heart of Australia's mining and energy sector. Engineering, geology, and environmental science students often find strong industry connections and internship opportunities that aren't available in other cities.
- Climate and lifestyle — Perth has one of the sunniest climates of any major world city, with warm Mediterranean weather, white-sand beaches, and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle.
- Proximity to Asia — Perth is the closest Australian city to Southeast and South Asia, making travel home faster and cheaper than from the east coast.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest course in Perth for international students?▾
The cheapest CRICOS-registered course available in Perth starts from $110 per year in tuition fees. TAFE WA and private college programs are typically the most affordable options, with vocational diplomas and certificates available well below university degree fees. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider before enrolling.
How much does it cost to live in Perth as an international student?▾
Perth is one of the most affordable major cities for international students in Australia. Typical living costs in 2026 run approximately AUD 1,700–2,400 per month. Shared accommodation typically costs AUD 180–260 per week in inner suburbs, which is notably cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne. Perth's public transport network (Transperth) covers trains, buses, and ferries, with student concession fares available.
What industries offer work for international students in Perth?▾
Perth's economy is driven by mining, resources, construction, and energy. These are sectors not well-represented in Sydney or Melbourne. Students in engineering, geology, environmental science, and project management fields often find strong employment connections in Perth. The hospitality, retail, and healthcare sectors also offer solid part-time employment for students across all disciplines.
Is Perth isolated from the rest of Australia?▾
Perth is geographically the most isolated major city in the world. The nearest comparable city, Adelaide, is over 2,700km away, and domestic flights to Sydney or Melbourne take around 4–5 hours. For many international students this isolation is a non-issue, particularly those from Southeast or South Asia, for whom Perth is often the closest Australian city to fly home. Within the city, lifestyle is excellent with world-class beaches, good food, and a relaxed pace of life.
Compare Perth courses and options
Fee data sourced from the CRICOS register via data.gov.au, updated 1 July 2026.