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Is accommodation cost included in the total expense, and how much does hostel or residential accommodation cost in Australia?

08 Sept 2026 · Answered by Rakshitha Muthukumar · 2 min read
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Yes, accommodation is always part of your total living expenses and typically eats up 30 to 50 percent of your monthly budget in Australia. A hostel dorm costs AUD 250 to 450 a week, while purpose-built student accommodation ranges from AUD 350 to 650 a week.

Rakshitha Muthukumar
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Yes, your accommodation cost is always folded into your total living expenses when you plan your Australian budget, and it is usually the single biggest line item you will pay. Depending on whether you choose a hostel, student accommodation, or a share house, your weekly cost can vary widely, so it pays to compare your options before you commit.

Accommodation Costs in Australia

Accommodation TypeWeekly Cost (AUD)Monthly Cost (AUD)
Hostel, dormitory250 to 4501,000 to 1,800
Hostel, private room450 to 7501,800 to 3,000
Student accommodation, off-campus350 to 6501,400 to 2,600
Share house room200 to 400800 to 1,600
Entire apartment500 to 900 plus2,000 to 3,600 plus

What to Keep in Mind for Each Option

  • Hostels suit short-term stays and backpackers, and usually bundle in utilities.
  • Purpose-built student accommodation often includes bills and Wi-Fi for a predictable monthly cost.
  • Share houses are the most budget-friendly long-term option if you split bills with flatmates.
  • Renting an entire apartment gives privacy but usually excludes utilities and internet.

My Advice

Book a hostel or short-term stay for your first two to three weeks in Australia, then use that time to inspect share houses or student accommodation in person before signing a longer lease. This protects you from committing to a room you have only seen in photos, and gives you room to compare real weekly costs across a few suburbs.

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