Sovereign

Is $120,000 a Good Salary in Melbourne?

An honest, data-driven analysis of purchasing power, lifestyle affordability, and tax impact for 2024.

The Verdict

Above Market Standard

This salary provides a strong buffer above the local median. You should comfortably afford modern housing and have significant capacity for savings and discretionary spending.

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Estimated Monthly Allocation

Monthly Net Income
$7,344
Housing & Utilities
$2,571

Target 30-35% of net. Covers rent/mortgage in standard zones.

Groceries & Transport
$2,203

Core living expenses adjusted for Melbourne CPI.

Lifestyle & Leisure
$1,469

Dining out, entertainment, and personal care.

Savings & Investment
$1,102

Remaining allocation for long-term wealth.

Other salary checks in Melbourne

Jump to adjacent income bands to stress test lifestyle outcomes.

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Compare $120,000 across peer hubs

Same salary, different macro-region hubs to benchmark opportunity cost.

Adjust the Numbers

Salary FAQs

What does $120,000 translate to after tax in Melbourne?
Our deterministic engine estimates roughly $88,133 per year (~$7,344 monthly) after Australia income taxes and mandatory social contributions for a single filer.
Can $120,000 comfortably cover housing in Melbourne?
Allocating about $2,571 (35% of monthly net income) keeps housing and utilities within the recommended 30–35% band even in core neighbourhoods.
How much could I save earning $120,000 in Melbourne?
Following the Sovereign allocation, you could direct roughly $1,102 per month (15% of take-home pay) toward investments, reserves, or debt payoff.