How to Move Abroad Without Breaking the Bank: Insider Tips for Americans to Australia
Australia is a dream destination for many Americans, thanks to its stunning landscapes, laid-back lifestyle, and welcoming culture. However, the thought of moving halfway across the world might seem expensive. The good news? You can move to Australia without breaking the bank if you plan carefully. From finding affordable flights to saving on housing, this guide will show you how to make the move to Australia on a budget.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore how to relocate to Australia without draining your savings!
Why Australia Is a Great Choice for Americans
Australia offers a high standard of living, beautiful weather, and vibrant cities. For many Americans, the cultural similarities and shared language make the transition easier. While some areas, like Sydney and Melbourne, can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable places to live across the country. Whether you're drawn to the beaches of Queensland or the lively city life of Perth, Australia has something for everyone.
Step 1: Understand Your Visa Options
The first step in your move is figuring out the best visa for your situation. Here are a few common options for Americans moving to Australia:
Working Holiday Visa
If you're between 18 and 30 years old, the Working Holiday Visa allows you to live and work in Australia for up to a year. This is a great option for those looking to explore the country while earning money to cover living costs. You can renew this visa for an additional year if you meet certain work requirements, like completing specified work in rural areas.
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
If you have skills that are in demand in Australia, the Skilled Independent Visa is a popular route. This points-based visa doesn’t require sponsorship from an employer, which gives you flexibility. Your application is assessed based on factors like age, education, and work experience.
Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482)
If you’ve already secured a job with an Australian employer, the Employer-Sponsored Visa is your best bet. Your employer will sponsor your visa, and the lively cities, the peaceful countryside, or the stunning coastlines, Australia has something for everyone. With proper planning, moving to Australia can be more affordable than you might think. Let’s break down the steps to make this move budget-friendly.
Step 1: Choose the Right Visa
Before moving to Australia, you’ll need to apply for the right visa. Fortunately, Australia offers several visa options for Americans, each with different costs and requirements.
Working Holiday Visa
If you’re under 35, the Working Holiday Visa is one of the most affordable options. It allows you to live and work in Australia for up to a year, with the possibility of an extension. This visa is perfect for young Americans looking to explore Australia while earning money along the way.
Skilled Worker Visa
If you have skills that are in demand in Australia, the Skilled Worker Visa may be the right choice. This visa allows you to live and work in Australia long-term and can lead to permanent residency.
Partner Visa
If you have an Australian partner, the Partner Visa allows you to move to Australia with them. This can be a more affordable route if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Pro Tip: Make sure to research the visa fees and processing times for each option. Applying early and planning for the visa cost will help you avoid surprises later.
Step 2: Budget for Your Move
Creating a detailed budget is essential for moving abroad without overspending. Here are the key costs to include in your budget:
Visa Fees: Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa you apply for. Working Holiday Visas, for example, cost around AUD 510 (approximately USD 330), while Skilled Worker Visas can be more expensive.
Flights: Airfare will be one of your biggest expenses, but you can save by booking in advance and flying during off-peak times.
Moving Costs: Whether you’re shipping your belongings or traveling light, it’s important to factor in moving costs. We’ll share tips on cutting down these costs below.
Common Mistake: Many people forget to account for exchange rates when budgeting. Make sure to factor in the current USD to AUD exchange rate to get an accurate idea of how much things will cost.
Step 3: Save on Flights
Flying to Australia can be pricey, but there are ways to find cheaper tickets.
Book Early: Flights to Australia are more affordable if you book several months in advance. Set up price alerts on flight comparison websites to monitor deals.
Fly During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid flying during holidays or peak tourist seasons. Instead, look for flights in the shoulder seasons, like spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when airfare tends to be lower.
Use Budget Airlines: Look into budget airlines that offer flights from the U.S. to Australia. While you may have to sacrifice some comfort, the savings can be significant.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check nearby airports for cheaper options. Sometimes flying into Brisbane instead of Sydney or Melbourne can save you money.
Step 4: Find Affordable Housing
Finding a place to live in Australia doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how to secure budget-friendly housing:
Rent Before You Buy
If you’re planning a long-term move, it’s best to rent first. Renting gives you time to explore different neighborhoods and get a feel for the area before making any big financial commitments. Websites like Domain.com.au and Realestate.com.au are great for finding rental listings.
Pro Tip: Look for short-term rentals when you first arrive. This will give you time to explore your new city without rushing into a long-term lease.
Affordable Cities
While cities like Sydney and Melbourne are known for their high cost of living, other areas of Australia are more affordable. Consider living in cities like Adelaide, Brisbane, or Hobart, where rent is lower, and the cost of living is more manageable.
House Shares
House sharing is a popular option in Australia, especially in major cities. You can save a lot by renting a room in a shared house. Check out Flatmates.com.au for listings of available shared housing options.
Common Mistake: Don’t forget to ask if utilities like water, electricity, and internet are included in the rent. Sometimes these are billed separately, so it’s important to clarify before signing a lease.
Step 5: Save on Daily Living Costs
Once you’ve settled in Australia, it’s time to think about how to keep your daily expenses low.
Cook at Home
Eating out in Australia can get expensive, especially in big cities. Instead, take advantage of the fresh produce and cook meals at home. Grocery stores like Woolworths and Coles often have great deals on food, and local farmers' markets are perfect for fresh, affordable produce.
Pro Tip: Look for special deals at grocery stores and buy items in bulk when they go on sale. Cooking in batches and meal prepping can also help you save money.
Use Public Transportation
Australia has an excellent public transportation system, especially in major cities. Instead of buying a car right away, use buses, trains, and trams to get around. Many cities offer discounted travel cards, which are cheaper than paying per trip.
Free Activities
Australia is full of free or low-cost activities. From beaches and national parks to free museums and festivals, you can enjoy a lot of what the country has to offer without spending much money.
Common Mistake: Some expats rush into buying a car without considering the cost of insurance, registration, and fuel. Start with public transport to save on these expenses.
Step 6: Navigating Healthcare in Australia
Australia’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and the good news is that it’s affordable.
Medicare
If you’re moving to Australia on a permanent visa or a working holiday visa, you may be eligible for Medicare, the country’s public healthcare system. This provides free or low-cost access to doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions.
Private Health Insurance
If you’re not eligible for Medicare or prefer private healthcare, look into private health insurance options. Australia has a variety of affordable plans that cover everything from dental to specialist care.
Pro Tip: Make sure to register for healthcare coverage as soon as possible to avoid gaps in coverage once you arrive.
Step 7: Find Work and Earn Income
Having a source of income will make your transition to Australia smoother. Here are a few ways to earn while living in Australia:
Remote Work
If your current job allows for remote work, this can be a great way to maintain your U.S.-based income while enjoying life in Australia.
Find a Job Locally
Australia has a strong job market, especially in fields like healthcare, technology, and education. Job sites like Seek and Indeed Australia are great places to start looking for local opportunities before you arrive.
Pro Tip: If you’re moving on a Working Holiday Visa, many industries, like hospitality and agriculture, offer short-term jobs that are ideal for travelers.
Step 8: Stay Connected with Family and Friends
Staying connected with loved ones in the U.S. doesn’t have to be expensive, even from the other side of the world.
Use Free Communication Apps: Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom allow you to make free calls and video chats, so you don’t have to worry about expensive international phone charges.
Visit During Off-Peak Times: If you plan to visit home, look for flights during off-peak times to save on airfare. Budget airlines like Jetstar and Virgin Australia often offer discounted flights within Australia and to nearby countries.
Pro Tip: Sign up for frequent flyer programs to earn points and get discounts on future flights.
Moving to Australia on a Budget
Moving to Australia doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s a recap of how to move abroad without breaking the bank:
Choose the right visa to suit your needs and budget.
Set a budget for flights, visa fees, and moving costs.
Find affordable housing by renting and considering less expensive cities.
Save on daily living costs by cooking at home and using public transportation.
Get healthcare coverage through Medicare or private insurance.
Find work or remote income to maintain financial stability.
Stay connected with friends and family using free communication apps.
Ready to Move to Australia?
Australia offers an amazing quality of life, and with the right planning, it’s possible to move there without breaking the bank. By following these steps, you can make your dream of living Down Under a reality while staying within your budget.
Ready to take the next step? Subscribe to our newsletter for more insider tips on moving abroad.
