Moving from Melbourne to Richmond (2026)

Richmond has a COL index of 98 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). You'd pay about 11% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$2,450/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
110 โ†’ 98
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600 โ†’ $1,600
per month
State tax
45% โ†’ 5.8%
income tax
COL difference
110 โ†’ 98
11% cheaper

Salary needed in Richmond to match your Melbourne lifestyle

Based on the 11% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in MelbourneEquivalent in Richmond
$40K$35,636
$50K$44,545
$60K$53,455
$75K$66,818
$80K$71,273
$100K$89,091
$120K$106,909
$150K$133,636

Adjust your salary

Save ~$68/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Melbourne vs Richmond

ExpenseMelbourneRichmond
Monthly take-home$3,000$4,378
1BR rent$1,600$1,600
Groceries$380$369
Transport$150$70
Utilities$130$155
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$678$2,124

Frequently asked questions

Is Richmond cheaper than Melbourne?

Yes. Richmond has a cost of living index of 98 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). That's about 11% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Melbourne to Richmond?

On a $75K salary, moving from Melbourne to Richmond saves roughly $2,450/month on core expenses. That's ~$29,400/year.

What salary do I need in Richmond to match my Melbourne lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Melbourne, you'd need roughly $66,818/year in Richmond. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only