Australia vs UK – which is better?

London has higher rent, but Sydney's groceries and utilities can be surprisingly expensive. Public transport is cheaper in London. The biggest factor is lifestyle; Sydney's outdoor activities might come with gear costs, while London's cultural scene has tons of free options but also pricey theaters. Look at Numbeo or Expatistan to compare specific costs based on YOUR spending habits.

For a software engineer, both offer good opportunities. The UK, specifically London, has a denser tech job market but also a much higher cost of living, especially for housing. Australia, particularly Sydney and Melbourne, has a growing tech scene with potentially better work-life balance and higher salaries after adjusting for cost of living. Consider researching specific companies in each location and comparing salary data on sites like Glassdoor, and also consider visa requirements and healthcare systems, as they differ significantly.