Top 5 Cheapest Cities to Live in Australia in 2025

Australia is famous for its beaches, big cities, and wide open spaces. It is also famous for being expensive. For many Filipinos, Sydney and Melbourne are the first cities that come to mind, but they are also the priciest. The good news is that not every Australian city will drain your savings.

There are places where rent is lower, salaries stretch further, and the lifestyle is just as rewarding. From coastal towns to the nation’s capital, here are the top 5 cheapest cities to live in Australia and why Filipinos should consider them.

1. Adelaide, South Australia

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Adelaide has a reputation for being the most affordable capital city in Australia. Housing is around 40 percent cheaper than Sydney, yet you still get beach suburbs, a lively city centre, and vineyards just half an hour away.

Why it is one of the cheapest Australian cities to live in:

• Lower rent and property prices

• Compact layout with cheaper transport costs

• Plenty of job openings in healthcare, education, and tech

For Filipinos, Adelaide offers the best of both worlds: a family-friendly city with strong career options and an affordable lifestyle.

Also read: Australia Migration Program 2025–26: Opportunities for Filipino Travellers

2. Hobart, Tasmania

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Hobart is known for its natural beauty and relaxed pace of life. Housing is about 35 percent cheaper than Melbourne and groceries and transport also cost less.

Why it is one of the most affordable cities in Australia:

• Budget-friendly food from local markets

• Smaller city size keeps commuting cheap

• Outdoor lifestyle means more free activities

For Filipinos, Hobart feels like a safe, welcoming city where community matters. It is ideal if you want to escape big-city chaos while still having access to culture and opportunity.

Also read: Step-by-Step Guide for Filipinos Applying for an Australian Skilled Visa

3. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

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Canberra surprises many as one of the cheapest cities to live in Australia because salaries are higher while costs stay moderate. Museums and galleries are free, saving money on leisure.

Why it is affordable:

• Lower rent compared to Sydney

• Higher salaries balance expenses

• Free cultural and outdoor attractions

For Filipinos in IT, education, or public service, Canberra offers both career stability and family-friendly living.

4. Darwin, Northern Territory

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Darwin is tropical, multicultural, and more affordable than you might expect. Rent is around 25 percent cheaper than Sydney, and job demand in healthcare, construction, and hospitality is strong.

Why it is affordable:

• Cheaper rent compared to southern capitals

• Tropical climate means lower heating bills

• Vibrant food culture with budget-friendly dining

For Filipinos, Darwin feels closer to home with its warm weather, night markets, and welcoming communities.

5. Wollongong, New South Wales

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Just 90 minutes from Sydney, Wollongong delivers coastal living at a lower cost. Housing is about 30 percent cheaper than Sydney, while still giving you easy access to the capital.

Why it is affordable:

• Lower housing costs with ocean views

• Cheaper to commute compared to living in Sydney

• Strong employment in healthcare and education

For Filipinos, Wollongong offers a rare mix of seaside lifestyle and career access without the high price tag.

Also read: Countries That Pay Filipinos to Relocate in 2025

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For many Filipinos, moving abroad is not only about finding work. It is about building a life where hard work finally pays off. These cities prove that Australia can be more than a dream destination. It can be a place where you raise a family, grow your career, and still have money left to enjoy life.

Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra, Darwin, and Wollongong show that you do not need Sydney’s skyline or Melbourne’s price tag to live well. What you need is the courage to choose a city that fits your goals and the knowledge to make the move wisely.

If you have ever thought about starting fresh in Australia, this is the right time to dig deeper. This is only the beginning of our migration guide. Stay with us as we break down the real costs, visa options, and insider tips to help you take the next step.

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