Thinking about a big move from the UK to Perth, Australia? It’s a massive decision, and figuring out the money side of things is a big part of it. We all hear different things about how expensive Australia is compared to the UK, but what’s the real story for Perth in 2026? This article breaks down the cost of living in Perth, Australia, compared to the UK, looking at everything from your rent and grocery shop to your daily commute and weekend fun. Let’s see how Perth stacks up.
Key Takeaways
- Housing in Perth is generally more affordable than in London, both for renting and buying, though regional UK cities can be cheaper still. Be aware of potential extra costs like air conditioning in Perth.
- Daily transport costs, including public transport passes and fuel, are significantly lower in Perth compared to London, offering potential savings.
- While some everyday groceries might be slightly more expensive in Perth, the overall grocery bill difference isn’t huge, but fresh produce and certain items can add up.
- Basic utilities like water and electricity are cheaper in Perth than in London. However, internet and mobile plans tend to be more expensive in Perth.
- While Australia can be more expensive overall, higher average salaries in Perth compared to the UK can mean better purchasing power and more disposable income for many.
Housing Affordability: Perth Versus London
When comparing the cost of putting a roof over your head, the differences between Perth and London are hard to ignore. London squeezes the wallet much harder, while Perth gives you a bit more breathing space, whether renting or buying. Still, there are hidden bits and pieces you’ll want to know about before making a move.
Rental Market Comparison
If you’re renting, here’s how the numbers line up for 2026:
| Accommodation Type | Perth (City Centre) | Perth (Suburbs) | London (City Centre) | London (Suburbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment/Flat | £1,220/month | £900/month | £2,140/month | £1,600/month |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment/House | £1,910/month | £1,340/month | £4,420/month | £2,860/month |
- Perth rents are nearly half those in central London.
- Families looking for more space get much more in Perth for their money.
- Suburbs on both sides offer savings, but the price gap remains wide.
Renting in Perth means your housing budget goes further, letting you live closer to the city or enjoy a bigger home for the same price Londoners pay for a tiny flat.
Property Purchase Price Differences
Buying isn’t any friendlier on the pocket in London. Perth’s housing market steps back from the wild prices of the UK capital:
| Purchase Location | Price per m² (City Centre) | Price per m² (Outside Centre) |
|---|---|---|
| Perth | £4,080 | £2,820 |
| London | £13,730 | £7,960 |
A few takeaways:
- London property prices are more than triple Perth’s, even when you step out of the city centre.
- Saving up for a deposit in Perth is way less daunting.
- Home buyers in London pay more but usually get less space and no bonus backyard.
Hidden Housing Expenses
The price tag on the lease or mortgage isn’t the full story. Here are a few extra costs you might not see straight away:
- Council Tax: London homes face annual council tax bills between £1,500–£2,000. Perth’s equivalents are lower, but you’ll still need to budget for local government rates.
- Utilities: In Perth, air conditioning isn’t just a perk, it’s a necessity — add an extra £50–£100 per month in summer. Londoners might pay more for heating during long winters.
- Maintenance and Upkeep: Older properties in London can mean more to repair. Perth’s newer homes can mean less frequent fixes, but beware of garden or pool care if you level up to a house.
These less obvious costs change which city gives you better value for money, especially across the whole year.
In summary, when you’re looking at affordability, Perth is still easier on your bank account. London offers buzz and history but racks up higher bills, both obvious and hidden. In either city, keep your eyes peeled for all the little costs — they add up fast.
Daily Commute Costs: Navigating Perth And London
Getting around Perth and London can really add up, and it’s something you’ll want to get a handle on before you pack your bags. Whether you’re a public transport die-hard or prefer to drive yourself, the costs are pretty different between these two cities. Perth generally comes out cheaper for getting from A to B.
Public Transport Ticket Prices
If you’re just hopping on a bus or train now and then, the single ticket prices give you a good snapshot. In Perth, a one-way trip will set you back around £2.35. Over in London, that same single journey is a bit more, costing about £2.80. It might not sound like a huge difference per trip, but it adds up if you’re doing it every day.
Monthly Pass Expenses
For those who rely on public transport daily, a monthly pass is usually the way to go. This is where you see a bigger gap. A monthly pass in Perth costs roughly £88.92. Now, compare that to London, where you’re looking at a hefty £200 for a similar pass. That’s a massive saving in Perth over the course of a year.
Fuel Prices For Drivers
If you’re planning on driving, fuel prices are a big factor. Perth’s petrol prices are significantly lower than London’s. You’ll find fuel in Perth costing around £0.98 per litre, while in London, it’s closer to £1.51 per litre. For anyone who drives regularly, this difference can mean substantial savings in your monthly budget.
When you’re looking at the daily grind of getting to work or just running errands, the cost of transport can really eat into your finances. Perth offers a more budget-friendly experience for commuters, whether you’re on the bus or behind the wheel. These savings might seem small at first, but they build up over time, freeing up cash for other things.
Here’s a quick look at the numbers:
| Item | Perth | London |
|---|---|---|
| One-way local ticket | £2.35 | £2.80 |
| Monthly public transport | £88.92 | £200.00 |
| Fuel price per litre | £0.98 | £1.51 |
Grocery Bills: What To Expect In Your Shopping Basket
Alright, let’s talk about the weekly shop. When you’re comparing Perth to the UK, the grocery aisle is definitely one of the places you’ll notice a difference. It’s not a massive shock, but it adds up, you know?
Everyday Essentials Price Check
Things like milk and bread are pretty standard, but you might find them a tad pricier in Perth. For example, a litre of milk in Perth is around £1.26, while in London it’s about £1.31. A loaf of white bread (500g) is a bit more in Perth too, costing about £1.87 compared to £1.58 in London. It’s these small differences that really start to paint a picture of the overall cost.
Here’s a quick look at some common items:
| Grocery Item | Perth (AUD) | London (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1L) | ~£1.26 | ~£1.31 |
| White bread (500g) | ~£1.87 | ~£1.58 |
| Eggs (12) | ~£3.41 | ~£3.12 |
| White rice (1kg) | ~£2.03 | ~£1.61 |
Fresh Produce And Protein Costs
When it comes to fresh stuff and your weekly protein, Perth can be a bit of a mixed bag. Chicken breasts are pretty close in price, around £7.46 per kilo in Perth versus £7.03 in London. Beef, however, tends to be a bit more expensive down under. Potatoes are actually cheaper in Perth (£1.29/kg) than in London (£1.80/kg), which is a nice surprise!
Planning your meals and sticking to a list is a good way to keep your grocery spending in check, no matter where you are. Looking for sales and buying seasonal produce can also make a big difference to your weekly shop.
Beverage And Snack Price Variations
Grabbing a coffee on the go? Expect to pay around AUD 4-6 for a cup in Perth. Snacks from bakeries can range from AUD 4-10. While there isn’t a direct comparison for these specific items in the UK data, it’s worth noting that these smaller purchases can add up quickly. If you’re a regular coffee drinker, this is something to factor into your daily budget.
Supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths are your main go-to spots in Perth. A weekly shop for one person could land anywhere between AUD 80 to AUD 150, depending on your habits. Local markets are also great for fresh produce, though sometimes a little pricier.
Essential Utilities: Powering Your Home Down Under
Alright, let’s talk about the boring but necessary stuff: keeping the lights on, the water running, and staying connected. When you’re looking at the cost of living in Perth compared to the UK, these utility bills are a big part of the picture.
Basic Utility Costs (Electricity, Water)
So, how much are we talking for electricity and water? It really depends on how much you use, of course, and where you live in Perth. If you’re running the air-con 24/7 during those hot summer months, your electricity bill is going to jump. Water usage can also add up, especially if you’ve got a garden that needs a good soak. Generally, for a standard household, you’re looking at a combined bill that can range from $200 to $400 per quarter. It’s not wildly different from what you might expect in some parts of the UK, but the seasonal spikes can be more pronounced here.
- Electricity: Costs can fluctuate significantly with seasonal demand (hello, summer!).
- Water: Usage charges are a big factor, so keeping an eye on your consumption is smart.
- Gas: Less common for heating in Perth compared to the UK, but still a factor for some.
Remember to check if your rental agreement includes any utilities. Sometimes, landlords bundle water usage, which can be a nice little saving.
Internet Service Provider Rates
Getting online is pretty standard these days, and Perth has a few main players for internet. The National Broadband Network (NBN) is the big one, and prices can vary a fair bit depending on the speed and data you need. For a decent home internet plan with a good amount of data, you’re probably looking at somewhere between $60 and $100 a month. It’s worth shopping around, as providers often have introductory offers that can save you a bit of cash initially.
Mobile Phone Plan Comparisons
Mobile plans are similar to the UK in that there’s a lot of choice. You can go for a prepaid option if you want to keep things flexible and avoid contracts, or a postpaid plan which might give you more data or international call inclusions. Most people are looking for plans with plenty of data these days, and you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $70 a month for a solid plan. Comparing providers and checking their coverage in your specific area is key before signing up.
| Plan Type | Typical Monthly Cost (AUD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Prepaid | $30 – $45 | Limited data, calls, and texts |
| Mid-Range Plan | $45 – $60 | Decent data allowance, standard inclusions |
| Premium Plan | $60 – $80+ | Large data, international options, perks |
Beyond The Basics: Lifestyle And Miscellaneous Expenses
Right, so we’ve covered the big stuff like rent and groceries, but what about the fun bits? Or, you know, the stuff that just pops up? Life isn’t all about bills and bread, is it? We need to think about going out, treating ourselves, and keeping fit.
Entertainment And Leisure Spending
When it comes to unwinding, Perth and London both offer heaps of options, but the price tags can be a bit different. Think movie tickets, concerts, or just grabbing a bite with mates. In Perth, a standard cinema ticket might set you back around $20-$25. If you’re keen on a live gig, expect to pay anywhere from $70 for a local band to $200+ for a big international act. London, as you’d expect, is generally pricier. Movie tickets can easily hit £15-£20, and concerts? Well, they can go through the roof, especially for the big names.
Here’s a rough idea:
| Activity | Perth (AUD) | London (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Cinema Ticket | $22 | £18 |
| Pub Meal | $25 | £20 |
| Concert Ticket (Mid-range) | $120 | £100 |
It’s not just about the big nights out, though. Perth has some cracking free options – think beaches, parks, and free community events. London has its share of free museums and parks too, but sometimes just getting to them can cost a bit in travel.
Don’t forget those little impulse buys. That coffee on the way to work, a magazine at the checkout, or a spontaneous online purchase can add up faster than you think. Keeping an eye on these small expenses is key to not blowing your budget.
Clothing And Apparel Price Points
Shopping for clothes is another area where you’ll see some variation. Perth tends to have a more relaxed vibe, and while you can find high-end fashion, the everyday stuff might feel a bit more accessible price-wise compared to London’s trendier districts. Think about your usual brands – are they cheaper or more expensive down under? Generally, you might find everyday clothing a bit more affordable in Perth, especially if you catch sales. However, imported brands or designer labels could be similar or even higher due to shipping and import taxes.
Fitness And Gym Membership Fees
Staying active is important, and gym memberships are a common expense. In Perth, you can find a decent gym for anywhere from $15 to $40 a week, depending on the facilities and location. Some places might even offer cheaper deals if you sign up for a longer contract. London’s gym scene is similar, with prices often ranging from £20 to £50 a week. Again, location and the swankiness of the gym play a big role. If you’re not fussed about fancy equipment, community centres or outdoor fitness spots can be a much cheaper alternative in both cities.
Overall Financial Picture: Perth Versus The UK
Annual Cost of Living Estimates
So, after all that number crunching, what’s the big picture? When you tally up everything from rent and groceries to utilities and a bit of fun, Perth generally comes out as the more budget-friendly option compared to the UK, especially when you look at major cities like London. While some things might be a bit pricier in Perth, like certain internet plans, the savings on housing and transport can really add up. For instance, the average annual cost of living in Perth is around AU$17,820, whereas in London, it’s a fair bit higher. This difference means your hard-earned cash can stretch further down under.
Salary Expectations And Purchasing Power
Now, let’s talk about what you actually earn and what you can buy with it. While salaries in Perth might not always match the absolute highest figures you see in some UK sectors, the lower cost of living often means your purchasing power is actually better. You might find that your salary in Perth allows you to afford a nicer lifestyle or save more than you would in a more expensive UK city. For example, the average annual salary in Perth is about AU$94,985, which, considering the living costs, can feel quite substantial.
Disposable Income And Savings Potential
Ultimately, it all comes down to how much you have left over after paying the bills and how much you can put away. With lower housing and transport costs, Perth often leaves you with more disposable income. This means you’ve got more freedom to spend on things you enjoy, or importantly, to build up your savings. Whether you’re dreaming of a house deposit, a big trip, or just a bit of financial security, the cost structure in Perth can make achieving those goals a bit more realistic than in many parts of the UK. It’s not just about spending less; it’s about having more opportunities to grow your wealth.
Moving to a new place is a big decision, and figuring out the money side of things is a huge part of it. Perth offers a different financial landscape than the UK, and understanding these differences can really help you make the right choice for your future.
So, Where Does Perth Stand?
Alright, so we’ve crunched the numbers, looked at the rent, the groceries, and all that jazz comparing Perth to the UK. It’s pretty clear that while Perth isn’t exactly a budget holiday destination, it often works out cheaper than London for the big stuff like housing and getting around. Sure, some things like internet and mobile plans might cost a bit more over there, and you’ll definitely need to factor in that air-con in summer. But when you look at the whole picture, especially if you’re thinking about buying a place or just want more bang for your buck on daily living, Perth really does stack up well. It’s not a simple yes or no answer, but for many, the lifestyle and cost balance in Perth could be a real winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to live in Perth or the UK?
Generally, Perth can be a bit pricier for everyday stuff like groceries compared to the UK. However, wages are often higher in Australia, which can help balance things out. So, while some things cost more, you might earn more too!
How do rent prices compare between Perth and London?
Renting in London is usually way more expensive than in Perth, especially if you want to live in the city centre. You’ll likely find more affordable rental options in Perth, giving you more bang for your buck.
What’s the deal with public transport costs?
Getting around on public transport is generally cheaper in Perth than in London. A monthly pass in Perth costs a fair bit less than in London, and even single tickets are often cheaper.
Are groceries a lot more expensive in Perth?
Yeah, some groceries can be pricier in Perth, especially fresh fruit and veggies. Things like bread and some meats might also cost you a bit more than in the UK. It’s worth checking local prices when you get there!
What about bills like electricity and internet?
Basic utilities like electricity and water tend to be cheaper in Perth than in London. However, internet plans might be a bit more expensive in Perth. Mobile phone plans can also be a bit pricier Down Under.
Is it worth moving to Perth for the lifestyle?
Many people find Perth offers a fantastic lifestyle with more sunshine and a generally more relaxed vibe than busy London. While it might cost a bit more for some things, the improved work-life balance and outdoor lifestyle can be a huge win for many.
