Expedient international travel in the past generation has created living alternatives that the average person previously did not enjoy. The result has been that many areas have moved in similar directions and ranges in terms of living expenses. Primary examples are Australia and the United States.
There are several similarities to the America/Australia connection that many people do not realize. Communication is always a concern for anyone considering an international residence move. Though Americans do not necessarily speak "the Queen's English," the language barriers between the areas are minimal. And, surprisingly, the cost of living in Australia is remarkable similar to the cost of living in America.
Average American household incomes are more applicable by the particular region. The same is true for Australia. Just as the cost of living in New York City is in the upper range, that model also applies to the Capital Territory and Northern Territory of Australia. Median household incomes in these Australian areas are $60K annually. Average household incomes range to $35K annually for Tasmania.
The cost of living in developed countries is almost always tied to average income levels. The primary costs of living normally include housing, utilities, and food. The cost of living in Australia is very similar to the cost of living in America. Australia, because of geographic topography, does have some differing levels.
Water service rates in Australia average around $70 per month. Electric rates average $100 monthly and natural gas averages $50 per month. Phone service is comparable, but many of the plans involve international calling which create a rate increase necessity.
Average mortgage rates also tend to be close, but rental rates have a different twist. The population density of Australia is largely coastal and, just as in tropical regions of America, location has an impact on these rates. The actual numbers can be skewed.
The major comparison differential between the two is total population of the areas. Australia is a vast area with a small population. This is also a very desirable attribute for many considering the move to Australia. It is a nation that is currently technologically driven, very similar to the United States.
When taken in terms of relativity, the cost of living in Australia will be more than America because of the numerous regions of lower cost of living in America, but the benefits of living in the Australian tropics may very well be worth the difference in terms of lifestyle satisfaction.
Author Resource:
Joe Black is the author of this article on Cost of Living Australia .
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