Sydney vs Amsterdam: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Sydney (Australia) and Amsterdam (Netherlands) reveals a cost-of-living index of 85.6 in Sydney versus 82.9 in Amsterdam (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Amsterdam is 3.2% more affordable than Sydney.

Metrological Indicator Sydney (Australia) Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 85.6 82.9
Rent Index 71.7 61.7
Groceries Index 81.1 66.3
Restaurant Price Index 77.9 77.7
Local Purchasing Power Index 104.2 102.1
1-Bed Apartment in City Center A$3,224 €1,924
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal A$24.96 €18.72
Monthly Public Transit Pass A$197.60 €98.80
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) A$239.20 €218.40
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 66.2/100 · Health 78.4/100 Safety 68.5/100 · Health 81.5/100

Is Sydney more expensive than Amsterdam?

Sydney has a higher overall cost-of-living index (85.6) compared to Amsterdam (82.9), representing an index differential of 2.7 points (3.2% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Sydney and Amsterdam?

In Sydney, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages A$3,224/month (Rent Index: 71.7), whereas in Amsterdam it averages €1,924/month (Rent Index: 61.7).

→ Sydney Full Cost Report → Amsterdam Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Sydney

The cost of living in Sydney, Australia is indexed at 85.6 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Sydney are defined by a Rent Index of 71.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about A$3,224 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Sydney, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages A$24.96, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around A$5.41. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately A$197.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging A$239.20 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Sydney secures a safety index rating of 66.2/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 91.5/100, healthcare standard scores 78.4/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 89.1 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: SYDNEY-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Amsterdam

The cost of living in Amsterdam, Netherlands is indexed at 82.9 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Amsterdam are defined by a Rent Index of 61.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,924 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Amsterdam, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €18.72, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €4.68. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €98.80, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €218.40 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Amsterdam secures a safety index rating of 68.5/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 82.4/100, healthcare standard scores 81.5/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 94.1 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: AMSTERDAM-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED