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Sydney or Perth: which one to choose for exchange in 2025?

written by
Natasha Machado
10/7/2025
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5 min
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Are you torn between Sydney and Perth for your exchange experience in Australia? Choosing the right city can completely transform your international journey, influencing everything from your budget to your professional opportunities. In 2025, each of these cities offers unique advantages that can make all the difference in your Study and Work in Australia.

Why the choice of the city is fundamental in the exchange

Defining between Sydney and Perth goes far beyond simple personal preference. This decision directly impacts your educational experience, job opportunities, quality of life, and especially your monthly budget. Each city has unique characteristics that can accelerate or slow down your international career goals.

Australia stands out worldwide for allowing students to work legally during their study period, making it one of the most attractive options for those seeking an international experience that combines learning and financial independence.

Sydney: Australia's economic heart

Job opportunities in Sydney

Sydney is positioned as the largest Australian economic center, housing the headquarters of important multinational companies and offering a diversified labor market. The city concentrates opportunities in sectors such as:

  • Financial sector: Banks, consultancies and fintechs with vacancies for international students
  • Technology and innovation: Startups and IT companies in constant growth
  • Tourism and hospitality: Heated market due to large tourist flow
  • upbringing: Tutoring opportunities and academic assistance
  • Retail: Positions in shopping centers and commercial establishments

Average salary for students: AU$ 22-28 per hour in part-time jobs, with the possibility of growth depending on experience and networking.

Lifestyle and infrastructure

Life in Sydney offers a complete urban experience, with access to world-famous beaches like Bondi Beach, vibrant nightlife, and constant cultural events. The public transport system is efficient, easily connecting different regions of the city.

Sydney climate in 2025:

  • Hot summers (December to February): 18°C to 26°C
  • Mild winters (June to August): 8°C to 17°C
  • Moderate rainfall index: 120 days of rain per year

Perth: the jewel of Western Australia

Economic advantages of Perth

Perth is positively surprising when we analyze the cost-benefit ratio for exchange students. The city offers exceptional quality of life at significantly lower costs than Sydney, allowing students to have more money available for experiences and trips.

Growth sectors in Perth:

  • Mining and natural resources: Traditional sector with good opportunities
  • Health and well-being: Accelerated growth with demand for professionals
  • Civil construction: Real estate boom generating diverse vacancies
  • Agriculture and Agribusiness: Expanding sector with applied technology
  • Renewable energy: Massive investments in solar and wind energy

Quality of life and climate

Perth is known as one of the sunniest cities in the world, with more than 3,200 hours of sunshine a year. That means more days ideal for outdoor activities and a more relaxed lifestyle.

Perth climate in 2025:

  • Dry and hot summers: 17°C to 31°C
  • Mild winters: 8°C to 18°C
  • Only 80 days of rain a year
  • Constant ocean breeze easing the heat

Sydney vs Perth: Full Comparison 2025

Comparativo Sydney vs Perth 2025

Sydney vs Perth: Comparativo Completo 2025

Aspecto Sydney Perth
População 5,25 milhões 2,17 milhões
Custo de Vida Anual AU$ 23.820 AU$ 17.820
Aluguel Mensal AU$ 1.200 - 1.800 AU$ 800 - 1.200
Clima 120 dias de chuva/ano 80 dias de chuva/ano
3.200h sol/ano
Principais Setores Finanças e tecnologia Mineração e saúde
Salário Part-time/hora AU$ 22 - 28 AU$ 20 - 26
Transporte Mensal AU$ 160 - 220 AU$ 120 - 180
Localização Costa leste Costa oeste

Detailed cost of living: monthly budget

Sydney: investment in opportunities

Living in Sydney requires more careful financial planning but offers returns through greater opportunities for professional growth and international networking.

Estimated monthly budget in Sydney:

  • Shared accommodation: AU$ 1,200 - 1,800
  • Food: AU$ 400 - 600
  • Transportation: AU$ 160 - 220
  • Entertainment: AU$ 300 - 500
  • Monthly total: AU$ 2,060 - 3,120

Perth: affordable quality of life

Perth allows exchange students to have a complete Australian experience on a leaner budget, with more money left over for unique trips and experiences.

Estimated monthly budget in Perth:

  • Shared accommodation: AU$ 800 - 1,200
  • Food: AU$ 300 - 450
  • Transportation: AU$ 120 - 180
  • Entertainment: AU$ 200 - 350
  • Monthly total: AU$ 1,420 - 2,180

Practical tips for making your decision

Choose Sydney if you:

  • Prioritizes maximum networking opportunities and professional growth
  • Seek experience in large cosmopolitan urban centers
  • You have a flexible budget to invest in your future
  • Values cultural diversity and international events
  • Are you planning to build a career in finance or technology?

Choose Perth if you:

  • Do you want to balance quality of life with affordable costs?
  • Do you prefer a quieter environment and a welcoming community?
  • It values sunny weather and outdoor activities
  • Search for opportunities in emerging sectors such as renewable energy
  • You have a more limited budget but don't want to give up the Australian experience

Job market: opportunities for exchange students

Both cities offer excellent opportunities for international students, but with distinct characteristics. The program Learning a language abroad it can be especially advantageous for those who want to improve their English before seeking more specialized job opportunities.

Trending sectors for 2025:

  • Tech: Both cities invest heavily in innovation
  • Cheers: Growing demand across the country
  • upbringing: Opportunities for native Portuguese speakers
  • Sustainability: Fast-expanding sector in Australia

Visa and Documentation Considerations

For exchange students planning to study and work in Australia, it's important to be aware of visa requirements. The student visa allows you to work up to 48 biweekly hours during term time and full time during school holidays.

Essential documentation:

  • Valid passport
  • Approved student visa
  • International Health Insurance (OSHC)
  • Financial proof
  • Enrollment at a recognized institution

Be Easy

Na Be Easy, we understand that choosing between Sydney and Perth is a decision that will impact your entire international experience. Our expert team is ready to help you assess which city best aligns with your personal and professional goals. We offer full support from initial planning to your arrival in Australia, ensuring that you make the right choice for your future. Contact us today and turn your Australian exchange dream into a successful reality!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy