Monthly Cost Summary — Wollongong
| Expense | Single Person |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed apartment) | $350–$450/week |
| Groceries | $150–$195 per week |
| Public transport | $120–$160 |
| Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) | $260–$340 |
| Dining out (meal for two, mid-range) | $85–$115 |
| Total monthly (single) | $3,100–$3,900 |
| Total monthly (family of 4) | $6,300–$8,300 |
Rent in Wollongong
| Property Type | Weekly Rent |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment (inner/middle suburbs) | $350–$450/week |
| House (3-bedroom) | $500–$650/week |
| Median (all dwellings) | $530/week |
Rent is the biggest cost in Wollongong and the main driver of differences between cities. Wollongong ranks 35–45% cheaper than Sydney for cost of living among Australian cities — At or slightly below average.
Property Prices
| Type | Median Price |
|---|---|
| Median house | ~$830K |
| Median unit/apartment | ~$520K |
Transport in Wollongong
Opal card: same as Sydney. Train to Sydney Central: ~90 minutes, $7.40 one way.
What Salary Do You Need?
To live comfortably in Wollongong as a single person (renting, moderate lifestyle, some savings), you need a gross salary of approximately $70,000–$85,000 per year. "Comfortably" means renting a 1-bedroom apartment, eating well, going out occasionally, and putting something into savings.
Tips for Living in Wollongong
90-minute train to Sydney — feasible commute for 2–3 days/week hybrid workers. University of Wollongong is a major employer. Beaches rival Sydney's but without the crowds. Steel and manufacturing heritage transitioning to tech and services.
What Makes Wollongong Different
The Illawarra region offers beach lifestyle at regional prices with Sydney access. Strong university town. Free shuttle bus around the CBD.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Wollongong?
A single person needs approximately $3,100–$3,900 per month including rent, groceries, transport, and utilities. A family of four needs $6,300–$8,300.
What salary do I need to live in Wollongong?
For a comfortable lifestyle as a single person, you need approximately $70,000–$85,000 gross per year. This covers rent on a 1-bedroom apartment, food, transport, and some discretionary spending.
How much is rent in Wollongong?
A 1-bedroom apartment costs $350–$450/week per week. A 3-bedroom house costs $500–$650/week. Median across all dwellings: $530/week.