If you're comparing life in two of Australia’s most recognisable cities and asking, “Is it cheaper to live in Adelaide or Sydney?”—you’re not alone. The rising cost of living in 2025 has pushed many Australians to reevaluate where their money goes, from rent and groceries to cleaning services and lifestyle extras.
This side-by-side comparison explores what everyday life really costs in Adelaide versus Sydney—covering housing, food, utilities, transport, lifestyle and essential services like cleaning and facilities access.
Yes. Housing remains the most significant cost difference between the two cities.
Sydney’s median house price is around $1.4 million, with average weekly rent for a two-bedroom unit at $730–$800 in most suburbs.
Adelaide’s median house price is closer to $730,000, and rent for a similar apartment averages $400–$480/week, even in central locations.
That’s nearly half the housing cost in Adelaide, making homeownership or long-term renting far more achievable.
Cost of living doesn’t stop at rent. Regular cleaning services, home maintenance, and laundry expenses quickly add up.
Professional cleaning services in Sydney cost between $45–$60 per hour, while in Adelaide, you’ll pay around $35–$45.
Laundry and dry-cleaning costs are lower in Adelaide, with self-service laundromats offering wash-and-fold from $15–$18 per load, versus $20–$25 in Sydney.
End-of-lease cleaning: Up to $500+ in Sydney, typically $300–$400 in Adelaide depending on property size.
Garden and general maintenance services also come cheaper in Adelaide due to lower labour rates.
Many Adelaide apartment complexes now come with:
Shared laundry rooms or in-unit machines
Secure bike storage
On-site waste and recycling management
Community BBQ or rooftop spaces (often free or low-fee to use)
In Sydney, many of these facilities come with higher strata fees or are limited to premium properties.
Verdict: Adelaide wins on facilities-to-cost ratio, offering practical amenities and services at lower ongoing expense.
Groceries and dining out are cheaper across the board in Adelaide:
A basic weekly shop for a family of four is $180–$220 in Adelaide, versus $240–$280 in Sydney.
Café prices average $18–$22 per meal in Adelaide, compared to $25–$30 in Sydney.
Coffee is $4.50–$5 in Adelaide, while many Sydney cafés are charging $5.50–$6+.
Monthly costs for a standard 2-bedroom home:
Adelaide: $250–$280 (electricity, water, gas, internet)
Sydney: $300–$350
Utility rebates and energy-saving schemes are often more accessible to Adelaide residents through local government programs.
Sydney’s global status brings international acts, premium venues, and five-star events—but at a price. In Adelaide:
Gym memberships average $55–$65/month (vs $90+ in Sydney)
Cinema tickets cost $20 (vs $25+)
Fringe and local festivals are subsidised or free to attend
Adelaide also offers proximity to wineries, beaches, and hiking trails with zero travel cost compared to Sydney’s often congested, toll-heavy road networks.
In the past 3 years, ABS data shows a notable population shift from Sydney to regional cities like Adelaide. Lower living costs, cleaner air, and hybrid work policies are encouraging people to swap harbourside stress for a more balanced lifestyle.
Adelaide is significantly cheaper than Sydney across the board—from housing and transport to daily services like cleaning and laundry. You can access the same basic facilities—without paying premium city prices.
Sydney may offer more global exposure and higher wages in select industries, but Adelaide provides outstanding value and liveability for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Cost of Living Comparison – Numbeo
ABS: Adelaide Housing Market Data
NSW Government – Transport Sydney
SA Government – Adelaide Metro
City of Adelaide – Cost of Living Info
Liveability Rankings – The Economist Intelligence Unit
SA Health – Work-Life Balance Tips
ABC News – Why Young Australians Are Moving to Adelaide
University of Adelaide – Why Study Here
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From residential housekeeping to Commercial Cleaning Services in Adelaide, the city offers a wide range of professional providers like Jim's Cleaning and Fantastic Services. Eco-conscious residents can also find green cleaning options, making it easy to maintain both homes and business premises to a high standard.