Cost of living and prices in Townsville, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇦🇺
Updated Jul 2023

Townsville, Australia, is a melting pot of different cuisines and dining options, ranging from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes and street food spots. For those looking for a taste of local Australian cuisine, there are plenty of seafood restaurants offering fresh catch straight from the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors can also indulge in some of the finest Asian and Mediterranean food, with a variety of Thai, Indian, and Italian restaurants dotting the streets of Townsville. For those looking for something quick and convenient, there are plenty of food trucks and outdoor markets offering a range of tasty treats.

Aside from the delicious food, one of the highlights of visiting the Townsville food scene is the stunning waterfront views. Many restaurants and cafes are located along the Strand, offering spectacular views of the beach and ocean. Visitors can enjoy a meal while watching the sailing boats pass by or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade after their meal. Additionally, with the warm climate in Townsville, many restaurants offer outdoor seating so diners can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while they eat. From fine dining to casual eats, Townsville has something for everyone to indulge in and enjoy.

Townsville, Australia is a bustling city with a diverse range of markets that offer unique products and experiences. From bustling weekend markets to smaller weekday markets, there are plenty of opportunities to shop and explore the local scene. The prices at Townsville's markets vary depending on the location, time, and nature of the market, but generally, you can expect to find affordable and high-quality products at most stalls.

One of the benefits of shopping at Townsville's markets is the chance to interact with local retailers and producers. Many of the markets feature stalls run by local farmers, artisans, and craftspeople who offer homemade goods and artisanal products. In addition to supporting the local economy, shopping at these markets can also provide a unique cultural experience that can't be found in chain stores or supermarkets. Overall, the market prices in Townsville offer a compelling value proposition that is well worth exploring.

If you're looking for a unique and fun way to get around Townsville, consider renting a bicycle! Many of the main streets and attractions are connected by bike paths, making it a convenient and healthy option. Plus, you'll have the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. If biking isn't your thing, there are also several bus routes that operate throughout the city, offering a reliable and affordable way to travel. Bus stops are located conveniently throughout the city and usually run every 20 minutes or so.

For those wanting to explore attractions a bit further afield, there are also car rental options available. This could be a great option if you plan on visiting the nearby beaches or national parks. Keep in mind that in Australia, they drive on the left side of the road! Alternatively, Townsville also has a ferry service that runs regularly between Magnetic Island and the city. This is a fantastic option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time on the beautiful island. Whatever your preference, there are several transportation options available in Townsville to suit your needs!

When traveling to Townsville, Australia, it's important to keep an eye on your utilities cost. The city is known for its hot, humid weather, meaning that air conditioning is a necessity during the summer months. This can result in higher electricity bills for both locals and tourists alike. However, keep in mind that Townsville has a number of renewable energy initiatives in place, such as wind and solar farms, which can help offset some of the cost.

Another utility cost to consider in Townsville is water usage. With the city's proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and its reliance on the nearby Ross River Dam for drinking water, it's important to conserve water when possible. Despite the high cost of building and maintaining the dam, water rates in Townsville are competitive with other Australian cities. To help conserve water during your stay, consider taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.

Sports and leisure are an integral part of Townsville's culture. Surrounded by picturesque scenery, the city boasts numerous outdoor and indoor recreational facilities to keep visitors entertained. For the adventurous, hiking trails that lead to Mount Stuart offer breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding islands. The Ross River Dam is perfect for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The numerous beaches around the city offer an opportunity to swim and sunbathe, while the Magnetic Island provides an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving.

For sports enthusiasts, Townsville has a thriving sports scene with various events throughout the year like the Townsville 400 V8 car race, the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, and the Townsville Triathlon Festival, among others. The city has professional rugby and basketball teams, and visitors can catch live games while enjoying the electric atmosphere in the stadiums. Townsville also has an active cycling community, with a variety of bike trails, from easy paths to challenging mountain trails. Overall, the city has something for everyone when it comes to sports and leisure activities.

When it comes to salaries in Townsville, the city offers competitive wages to its workforce, particularly in the healthcare, education, and mining industries. The median income in the city is higher than the national average in Australia, making it an attractive location for professionals looking for career opportunities. Additionally, the cost of living in Townsville is relatively lower compared to other metropolitan areas in the country, allowing individuals to lead a comfortable lifestyle with their salaries. Visitors to the city can expect to see a vibrant community with a strong local economy that values the welfare of its residents.

Regarding financing in Townsville, there are several financial institutions available in the city that offer various services such as loans, credit cards, savings, and investments. The availability of these institutions has made the city a hub of finance in the region, providing locals and tourists with access to financial assistance when needed. Moreover, financial literacy and management are highly respected skill sets in the city, evident through the several workshops and seminars conducted each year to help individuals better understand their finances. Visitors can expect to find a city with a well-established financial infrastructure that is ready to support their needs.

Childcare prices in Townsville, Australia can be quite expensive, especially for schools and kindergartens. Parents should expect to pay a significant amount to ensure their child's safety and education. However, the prices may vary depending on the location, facilities, and quality of the childcare center. It is important to research and compare different options to find the best fit for your child and budget.

Despite the high prices, many parents in Townsville opt for schools and kindergartens for their children. This is due to the high standards of education and care that these facilities offer. Schools and kindergartens often have well-trained teachers and staff, and provide a structured environment for children to learn and grow. They also offer a range of activities and programs that can further enhance a child's development. In Townsville, there are many excellent schools and kindergartens to choose from, making it easier for parents to find the right fit for their child.

Townsville, Australia offers a plethora of options to buy clothing and shoes in various styles to suit different preferences. The prices of clothing and shoes vary depending on a multitude of factors, such as the material, brand, design, and quality. You can find an extensive range of high-end designer brands with premium quality to affordable yet trendy clothing in different retail stores and shopping centres. There are also various shops that sell vintage and second-hand clothing, where you can find unique pieces that stand out from the crowd.

When it comes to shoe shopping, Townsville offers a range of options from casual to elegant footwear to cater to different tastes. Shops specialising in sports shoes are also available for those looking for comfortable and durable sports shoes. Some places offer customised footwear where you can design your shoes based on your preferences. In addition to retail shops, online shopping is also a widely used option for purchasing clothing and shoes at affordable prices. Whatever your fashion choice and budget, Townsville has something for everyone.

Visitors to Townsville, Australia will be pleased to know that there are plenty of short-term rental options available for those looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay. From cozy apartments to spacious houses, there's a rental property to suit every need and budget. With prices that vary depending on location, size, and amenities, visitors can easily find accommodation that fits their needs without breaking the bank.

For those looking to stay in Townsville for an extended period, there are also many affordable long-term rental options available. These rental properties offer the comfort and convenience of a home away from home while providing the flexibility to stay for as long as needed. Whether you're here for a few weeks or several months, there is a rental property available to meet your needs. With a variety of options available at affordable prices, visitors can enjoy everything that Townsville has to offer without having to worry about the cost of accommodation.

There are various real estate buying options available in Townsville, Australia. The city offers a wide range of residential properties, including apartments, townhouses, and detached houses. Each option comes with its own features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that matches your lifestyle and budget requirements.

When it comes to prices, the real estate market in Townsville can vary depending on the location and type of property. Some areas are more expensive than others due to their proximity to amenities such as transportation, schools, and shopping centers. However, generally speaking, the prices are reasonable and competitive in comparison to other major Australian cities. It’s essential to work with a reputable real estate agent or broker to help navigate the market and find a property that suits your needs at the right price.