Australian Immigration: Cost of Living

One of the bigger challenges you'll encounter as part of your immigration to Australia is dealing with the change in cost of living. Compared to many other countries, the cost of living in Australia is high. The Australian migration-related expenses will start even before you move to your new home. Relocation does not come cheap. There will be significant costs involved in traveling to another country and moving your items across continents.

The main concern most people have with migrating to Australia is the accommodation or housing cost. Depending on your area and the kind of home you require, the cost will vary greatly. The rates are also different for mortgage vs renting a home. Average price of a home in Australia is pegged at around $300,000 to purchase. Calculating it with the interest rates on long term (25-year) repayments can boil down to at least $900 a month to as much as $2000 per month. Rental can range between $400 to $1800 per month, depending on the accommodation type you are renting. That is apart from water rates, building insurance, electricity, gas, phone bill, and Internet bill. In total, bills would cost an individual about $100 per month. The cost increases as the number of individuals in the family increase.

Another considerable cost is food. While food is priced similarly to the US, it is about 25 percent less than it would cost you in European countries. But on a monthly basis, that could still easily go over $400 per month.

For permanent immigrants to Australia, health services are subsidised both for hospital bills and pharmaceutical services. However, health cover or insurance is still a considerable spend for most Australian immigrants. This would usually cost a little over $70 per person, per month.

Local travel cost - including fuel and car maintenance - can be averaged at $200 per month. This is an expense that you won't be able to do without but can cut back, depending on the distance between your home and your work. Additionally, you may opt to take the public transportation system instead of buying your own car.

With these rates, considering your current funds as well as your job security is essential to Australian migration. Do not assume that you will find a job quickly. An Australian immigration visa does not guarantee a job. You need to be prepared to financially support yourself and your family before you even consider Australian immigration.

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Dylan Lautner
http://www.nationalvisas.com.au/