Is it cheaper to live in the USA or Australia?

Australia is modestly cheaper than the US on country averages: Australia sits at $2,800 per person per month for a moderate lifestyle, the US at $3,275, a gap of around $475 a month or 14 percent. The honest comparison breaks down at the metro level though. Sydney ($3,050) runs cheaper than the US average but more expensive than most Australian cities, while Los Angeles ($4,350) sits substantially higher. Melbourne ($2,725) tracks well below the US average. Brisbane ($2,825) and Perth ($2,625) come in cheaper than the US average and roughly match Texas ($3,025). Australia has universal public healthcare (Medicare), which removes a meaningful US household expense. Income tax sits higher in Australia (top rate 45 percent vs US federal 37 percent). For someone moving from a high-cost US metro, Australia is broadly cheaper; from a cheap US state, it is broadly similar or slightly more expensive. For the full breakdown, see our Australia cost of living page.