Deciding to relocate to a new city is a life-changing decision, and choosing the right destination can significantly impact the quality of your life. With so many incredible cities to choose from, it can feel like the possibilities are endless. 

Yet, many find themselves drawn to two standout destinations: Perth, Australia, and London, UK. Both cities offer exciting opportunities, rich cultures, and vibrant lifestyles—but when it comes to affordability and lifestyle, one may suit your needs better than the other.

In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of living in Perth vs London, comparing essentials from housing to utilities. Whether you’re seeking a lower cost of living, better work-life balance, or an exciting career change, this detailed comparison will help you make an informed decision about where to settle next.

So without much further ado let’s dive right into the numbers and see how these two global cities stack up against each other in 2024!

Cost of Living Perth vs London

1. Housing Costs

Housing is typically the largest expense for most individuals and families when relocating to a new city. Perth and London present drastically different housing markets, with London’s high demand driving up prices significantly, especially in the city center. Below is a comparison of rental and purchase prices for 1-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments, both in and outside the city center.

For individuals or families looking for affordable housing, Perth offers a more financially feasible option. Lower rent, property prices, and a relatively lower mortgage interest rate makes Perth an attractive choice for those who prioritize affordability without sacrificing a good quality of life.

2. Transportation

Whether you’re commuting daily or relying on your own vehicle, transportation costs play a significant role when evaluating the cost of living in a new city. The contrast in transportation costs between Perth and London becomes even more evident when you factor in regular commuting expenses, fuel prices, and car ownership.

One-way local transport ticket:

• In Perth, a one-way ticket for local transport costs £2.35, while in London, it’s slightly higher at £2.80.

Monthly public transport pass:

• If you rely on public transport for commuting, a monthly pass in Perth will cost £88.92, whereas in London, you’ll be paying significantly more at £200.

Fuel prices:

• If you’re driving, fuel prices in Perth are considerably lower at £0.98 per liter compared to £1.51 per liter in London.

For those who commute or drive regularly, Perth offers substantial savings, with lower transport costs across the board. London’s expansive network and urban sprawl result in higher prices, but Perth’s budget-friendly transportation options make it an attractive alternative. Over time, these reduced costs can free up more of your budget, allowing you to build out your savings and bring you a step closer to financial freedom

3. Groceries

Groceries form a regular part of any household’s budget, and the cost of everyday items can vary significantly depending on the city and country you’re moving to. Whether you’re buying essentials like milk, bread, or fresh produce, understanding the price differences can help you better plan your budget. Below is a detailed comparison of the prices for common grocery items in Perth and London.

Despite Perth being more expensive in some categories, there are several items like white rice, eggs, and beef that are more affordable than their London counterparts. However, fresh produce like bananas and vegetables tend to be pricier in Perth, along with non-essentials such as cigarettes.

For those relocating to Perth or London, it’s important to factor in these grocery differences when budgeting for daily living expenses. 

4. Utilities

In Perth, the cost of basic utilities such as electricity and water for an is around £161.59 per month. In contrast, London’s utility costs are considerably higher, averaging £294.99 per month for the same apartment size. This makes utilities in Perth significantly more affordable than in London.

For internet services, Perth is more expensive, with a 60 Mbps or more, unlimited data plan costing around £40.87 per month compared to £30.86 per month in London.

Mobile phone plans also show a noticeable difference. In Perth, a monthly mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data costs approximately £22.45, whereas in London, it’s lower at £15.34 per month.

Overall, while Perth offers more affordable utility costs, London provides cheaper options for internet and mobile phone plans, which could offset some of the higher utility expenses for those focused on connectivity.

How PTL Global Recruitment Can Help

Making the decision to move is just the first step in your relocation journey. Whether you’re moving for better career opportunities, a lower cost of living, or a better quality of life, navigating the immigration process and securing employment can be overwhelming.

PTL Global Recruitment is a global recruitment agency that helps individuals in the field of mechanical engineering make the move to Australia. With a deep understanding of both the UK and Australian job markets, we can assist you with:

• Tailored job placement services: Get connected with leading employers in Perth and across Australia.
• Expert career guidance: Benefit from PTL Global Recruitment’s extensive knowledge of the job markets in both the UK and Australia, ensuring you receive the most accurate and relevant guidance for your career transition.

With PTL Global Recruitment by your side, you can focus on securing your dream job with relative ease. So what are you waiting for? Contact us today and take the first step towards starting a rewarding career and a fulfilling work-life in Australia.

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