Is an income of £80-90k sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle in Australia?
My wife and I are both nurses in the UK, and we’re planning to emigrate soon. We have two children and are looking to settle somewhere coastal, ideally between Sydney and Melbourne.
With our combined income, would we be able to maintain a good standard of living for our family of four? We’re hoping to afford a decent home, cover essential expenses, and fund activities for the kids. We’d also like to take a trip back to the UK once a year. While dining out isn’t a priority for us, we do enjoy family day trips, and our children participate in various sports. Additionally, we would likely need two cars. We’re aiming for a 491 visa with the hope of applying for permanent residency in the future.
I would appreciate any insights from those living in Australia!
Thank you!
It’s great to hear that you and your wife are considering making the move to Australia! With two incomes of £80-90k per year (around AUD $152,000 to $169,000), you can indeed live comfortably, especially in coastal areas between Sydney and Melbourne, but a lot will depend on your specific location and lifestyle choices.
Housing: Coastal regions can vary significantly in housing costs. Areas near major cities like Sydney can be quite expensive, while towns further out may be more affordable. Researching housing prices in your preferred area will help you gauge what you’re likely to afford.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in coastal towns can be more manageable than in big cities, but you’ll need to budget for essential expenses like groceries, utilities, and school fees for your children. Public schools are generally free, but you may have costs for uniforms and sports fees.
Transportation: Having two cars is a practical choice, especially in coastal areas where public transport may not be as extensive. Factor in fuel, insurance, and maintenance costs into your budget.
Family Activities: It sounds like you enjoy family activities, and fortunately, Australia offers plenty of free or low-cost options such as beaches, parks, and community events. Setting aside a budget for sports and trips will be important, but it’s definitely feasible.
Travel: Budgeting for a trip back to the UK each year will require some planning, especially considering airfare costs, but it’s certainly manageable with your expected income.
Healthcare: As nurses, you may have access to good healthcare coverage, and Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare) will also support you once you’re permanent residents.
It’s advisable to make a detailed budget based on your goals and research the specific areas you’re interested in. Connecting with local communities online or in person can also provide valuable insights. Wishing you all the best with your plans for emigration!