is australia cheap or expensive?

Short answer: Australia leans expensive, especially in the big smoke—Sydney and Melbourne can chew through a wallet faster than a seagull demolishing hot chips.

Groceries and eating out are pricier than many countries, fuel yo-yos, and rent in inner suburbs can feel like auditioning for a second job.

On the upside, wages are generally higher, healthcare is buffered by Medicare, and regional towns can be far kinder to your budget.

So no, it’s not bargain-bin living, but the quality-of-life trade-offs are solid—sun, space, beaches, and a decent flat white if you’re okay paying for the privilege.