Melbourne has firmly established itself as Australia’s leading destination for tech talent, drawing in thousands of specialists with its innovative startup culture, presence of major technology companies, and consistently high global rankings for quality of life.
If you’re earning around $150,000 AUD and preparing to relocate, this guide breaks down what to expect financially, socially, and professionally as you settle into Australia’s cultural powerhouse.
Understanding Your Take-Home Pay
Before exploring day-to-day life in Melbourne, it’s important to understand what your income looks like after deductions. With a $150,000 AUD yearly salary, your monthly net income generally falls between $8,600 and $8,800 AUD once income tax, compulsory retirement contributions (superannuation), and the Medicare levy are accounted for. This places you well above the average Melbourne income, allowing both a comfortable lifestyle and healthy savings.
Australia’s tax brackets operate on a progressive structure, and at this income level, you’ll contribute roughly 30% in taxes and levies. In addition, your employer deposits 11.5% of your salary into your superannuation fund, which becomes accessible upon retirement.
Housing: Your Biggest Investment
Accommodation will likely be your most significant expense, and Melbourne’s housing market offers a range of choices depending on your lifestyle preferences.
Inner City Living (CBD, Southbank, Docklands)
If you want to live close to the office and enjoy Melbourne’s fast-paced inner-city life, expect to pay between $2,200–$2,800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the CBD or Southbank, with two-bedroom units ranging from $2,800–$3,500. These areas put you close to major tech hubs, cafes, and nightlife, though living spaces tend to be smaller and offer limited outdoor areas.
Inner Suburbs (Fitzroy, Collingwood, Richmond, South Yarra, Carlton)
Located just a short tram ride from the city, these suburbs blend convenience with character. Here you’ll find older-style apartments, terrace homes, and vibrant communities. Rent for a one-bedroom property typically ranges from $2,400–$3,200 per month, while two-bedroom options cost $3,000–$4,000. Many of Melbourne’s most beloved dining and cultural spots are found in these neighborhoods.
Middle-Ring Suburbs (St Kilda, Prahran, Brunswick, Northcote)
Move 5–10 kilometers out and housing becomes more spacious and reasonably priced. Two-bedroom apartments range from $2,200–$3,000 per month, and smaller standalone homes may be available for $3,200–$4,000. These suburbs offer beach access (St Kilda), strong community feel, and reliable public transport.
Outer Suburbs
If you’re open to longer commutes—typically 30–45 minutes—you can secure significantly larger homes and lower rent. The downside is increased dependency on a car and distance from Melbourne’s cultural center.
Most rentals require a bond equal to four weeks’ rent plus your first month paid upfront. Expect utilities to add around $200–$300 monthly.
Transportation: Getting Around Melbourne
Public Transport Victoria operates an extensive network of trams, trains, and buses that serve most inner and middle suburbs. A monthly Myki pass for all metropolitan zones costs about $160. Many tech workers in these areas rely exclusively on public transport or cycling.
Melbourne, however, leans more car-dependent than cities like Sydney or those in Europe. If you live further from the CBD or want more independence, owning a car is useful. Monthly car-related costs typically include:
- $150–$250 for insurance
- $200–$300 for fuel
- Parking fees starting at $100+ if not included with your rental
- Registration and maintenance costs
Cycling continues to grow in popularity, supported by expanding bike lanes. E-bikes and scooters have also become convenient alternatives.
Food and Daily Living
Melbourne’s culinary scene is exceptional, shaped by its multicultural population. Your spending will depend heavily on how often you cook versus dine out.
- Groceries: Expect to spend $400–$600 per month at major supermarkets like Coles or Woolworths. Shopping at markets or Aldi can reduce this cost considerably.
- Dining out:
- Coffee: $4.50–$5.50
- Brunch: $18–$28
- Casual dinner: $30–$50 per person
- Fine dining: $100+
Most tech workers mix home cooking ($10–$15 per meal) with weekend outings. A combined budget of $400–$800 per month typically supports a balanced lifestyle.
The Tech Scene: Your Professional Landscape
Melbourne is home to major tech employers such as REA Group, SEEK, Canva, Atlassian, and global firms like Google and Amazon. Startups and innovation clusters are especially prominent in Cremorne, Richmond, and the CBD.
The local tech community is active and inclusive, with frequent meetups, workshops, and conferences like YOW! and PyCon Australia. Networking platforms such as LinkedIn and Meetup are valuable tools before and after relocation.
While salaries in Melbourne are generally 10–15% lower than Sydney’s, many professionals argue that the city’s affordability, culture, and work-life balance more than compensate.
Healthcare and Insurance
Permanent residents and citizens are covered under Australia’s Medicare system. Higher-income earners may choose private insurance to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge (applies from $93,000 for single individuals). Private hospital cover costs between $80–$150 monthly, while full coverage packages range from $150–$300.
General doctor visits are often bulk-billed or cost between $70–$90. Dental and specialist visits can be costly without private cover.
Entertainment and Lifestyle
Melbourne excels in lifestyle offerings and cultural experiences.
Arts & Culture
The National Gallery of Victoria, numerous theatres, festivals, and music venues provide endless cultural stimulation. Many exhibitions offer free entry.
Sports
AFL, cricket at the MCG, the Australian Open, and A-League soccer provide a year-round sports schedule. Membership costs $300–$600 annually, and casual tickets range from $25–$80.
Nature & Outdoors
From the Dandenong Ranges to the Great Ocean Road, outdoor escapes are easily accessible. Gym memberships typically cost $60–$120 per month.
Coffee Culture
Coffee is practically a religion in Melbourne, with exceptional cafes throughout the city.
Expect to spend $400–$800 monthly on entertainment depending on your habits.
Sample Monthly Budget
Monthly income: $8,700
Estimated expenses:
- Rent (1BR inner suburb): $2,600
- Utilities/Internet: $250
- Public transport: $160
- Groceries: $500
- Dining & cafes: $600
- Entertainment: $400
- Gym: $80
- Phone: $50
- Private insurance: $150
- Miscellaneous: $200
Total: $4,990
Leftover for savings, travel, or lifestyle upgrades: $3,710
This allows for solid savings of around 20–25% of your gross income. Couples can save even more by sharing housing and utilities.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Melbourne is known for its unpredictable weather. Summers can be hot, averaging 25–30°C with occasional extreme heatwaves, while winters are cool and rainy, usually between 6–14°C. Snow is extremely rare in the city.
Layered clothing is essential, and adjusting to sudden weather changes becomes part of daily life.
Social Integration and Community
With more than 30% of residents born overseas, Melbourne is a diverse and welcoming city. The tech sector is particularly multicultural, making it easy to meet people from around the world.
Social connections often develop through workplaces, clubs, sports, hobbies, and meetups. Australians are relaxed and friendly, though forming deeper friendships still takes time and effort. The strong cafe culture naturally encourages conversation and community building.
Visa Considerations
Most tech professionals relocate under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa or state-sponsored skilled programs. Highly skilled workers may qualify for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), which grants permanent residency without employer sponsorship.
Visa fees range from $4,000–$9,000, and processing can take 3–12 months based on the route chosen. Many tech occupations are prioritized due to ongoing skill shortages, making permanent residency pathways clear and achievable.
The Verdict: Is It Worth It?
A $150K salary enables a very comfortable lifestyle in Melbourne. You’ll enjoy desirable housing options, an unmatched food and cultural scene, abundant professional opportunities, and the ability to save significantly while maintaining an enjoyable lifestyle.
Challenges include the distance from family if moving from abroad, adapting to Australia’s distinct work culture, and navigating local quirks like AFL’s complex rules. Still, Melbourne’s strengths lie in its overall balance—work, culture, nature, food, safety, and community all blend to create a highly livable environment.
Relocating successfully means managing expectations, participating actively in local life, and embracing the unique rhythms of Melbourne rather than comparing it to your previous home. With openness and curiosity, the city offers an immensely rewarding experience.