Cost of living
How Much Salary Do You Need To Live In Sydney?
Short answer
Sydney has the highest rents in Australia. On our indicative figures a single person spends about $4,170 a month on a one-bedroom, transport, food and utilities. Roughly $68,000 gross covers that with room to save, once PAYG tax and the 2% Medicare levy are taken out.
What drives the figure
Rent dominates. A one-bedroom in Sydney is among the priciest in the country, so your salary must clear that plus the usual costs before you have disposable income. Use the Sydney salary calculator with your real rent.
Ways to make it work
Sharing, commuting from cheaper suburbs, or comparing a higher-paying Sydney role against a cheaper city can all change the maths. See best cities for take-home pay.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sydney the most expensive city?+
For rent, generally yes. Salaries are higher too, but not always enough to offset the rent.
Can I save on a median salary in Sydney?+
It is tight - your suburb and housing choice make the biggest difference.
Would another city leave me better off?+
Often yes for the same salary - compare disposable income with the cost of living tool.
Sources & methodology
- ATO - Personal income tax: new tax cuts (15% rate from 1 July 2026)
- Income Tax Rates Act 1986 (legislation.gov.au)
- ATO - Study and training loan repayment thresholds and rates
- ATO - Super guarantee
- ATO - Contribution caps
- ATO - Payday Super and the annual maximum contribution base
- ATO - Medicare levy
- ATO - Medicare levy surcharge income thresholds and rates
- Fair Work Ombudsman - Pay slips
- How we calculate these estimates
Last updated 13 August 2026. Figures use the 2026-27 financial year.
Related calculators & guides
Try the Sydney Salary Calculator
Put these numbers into a calculator and see your own result.