Best Places to Live in Australia: Australia is a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy, comprising six states and ten territories. It is rich in quality of life, health, education, economic freedom, etc.
If you’re considering studying in Australia and are unsure about where to find the perfect accommodation, this blog is for you. Whether you’re a beach lover or someone who craves calmness, Australia has everything for you. We’ll explore the best places to live in Australia for students near beautiful beaches and check the ideal locations for young adults.
Table of contents
- Best Places to Live in Australia for Students
- Melbourne – The Cultural Hub
- Sydney – The Global City
- Brisbane – The Affordable Choice
- Adelaide – The Budget-Friendly City
- Perth – The Laid-Back City
- Canberra – The Student-Focused City
- Gold Coast – The Beach Paradise
- Hobart – The Affordable Hidden Gem
- Darwin – The Laid-Back Northern City
- Newcastle – The Underrated Student City
- Best Places to Live in Australia Near the University of Melbourne
- Best Places to Live in Australia Near the Brighton University
- QS Ranking For Best Student Cities in Australia
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Place to Live in Australia
- Cost of Living in Australia for Students
- FAQs on Best Places to Live in Australia
Best Places to Live in Australia for Students
Australia has some of the best student cities in the world. These places offer quality education, excellent facilities, and a great student lifestyle. Below we have mentioned some of the best places to live in Australia for students. Let’s explore them one by one.
Melbourne – The Cultural Hub
Melbourne is one of the best places to live in Australia for students. It’s ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. The city has a vibrant culture, diverse food options, and excellent public transport. With world-class universities, diverse food scenes, and plenty of social activities, Melbourne provides a friendly environment to grow both academically and personally.
Why Choose Melbourne?
- Home to top universities like The University of Melbourne and Monash University
- Well-connected transport (trams, trains, buses)
- Large South Asian community with many Indian and Pakistani restaurants
- High cost of living but plenty of student accommodation options
Best Student Areas in Melbourne:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Modern apartments, near the city centre | AUD 250 – 350 | Close to universities, student-friendly |
| Brunswick | AUD 180 – 300 | Affordable, good public transport |
| Southbank | AUD 300 – 450 | Modern apartments, near the city center |
Sydney – The Global City
Sydney is Australia’s largest city and a major education hub. It is expensive but offers great job opportunities and a high quality of life. If you’re moving here, choosing the right area is important for safety, affordability, and convenience. The best places to live in Australia offer good transport, nearby markets, and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a student or a professional, there’s a perfect neighbourhood for you.
Why Choose Sydney?
- Home to The University of Sydney and UNSW
- Beautiful beaches and outdoor activities
- Plenty of part-time job opportunities
- Well-connected transport system
Best Student Areas in Sydney:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Newtown | AUD 250 – 400 | Lively area, near universities |
| Parramatta | AUD 200 – 350 | Close to the city, student-friendly |
| Ultimo | AUD 300 – 450 | Close to city, student-friendly |
Brisbane – The Affordable Choice
Brisbane is an affordable and sunny city, making it one of the best places to live in Australia for students. It offers a perfect mix of city life and nature. With warm weather, friendly people, and a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne, it’s a great choice for students and professionals. The city has excellent transport, top universities, and plenty of parks and cafes. Whether you want a lively or quiet neighbourhood, Brisbane has something for everyone.
Why Choose Brisbane?
- Home to The University of Queensland (UQ) and QUT
- Lower living costs compared to Sydney and Melbourne
- Warm weather all year round
- Less crowded and more relaxed lifestyle
Best Student Areas in Brisbane:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| St Lucia | AUD 180 – 300 | Trendy area, with good food options |
| West End | AUD 200 – 350 | Trendy area, good food options |
| Kelvin Grove | AUD 180 – 320 | Affordable, near QUT |
Adelaide – The Budget-Friendly City
Adelaide is one of the best places to live in Australia, offering a perfect mix of affordability, safety, and a relaxed lifestyle. Known for its beautiful beaches, top universities, and vibrant culture, it’s a great choice for students and professionals. The city has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, making it easier to find budget-friendly housing. Plus, excellent public transport and diverse communities make settling in hassle-free.
Why Choose Adelaide?
- Home to The University of Adelaide and Flinders University
- Affordable rent and living costs
- Less crowded, peaceful environment
- Well-planned public transport
Best Student Areas in Adelaide:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| North Adelaide | AUD 150 – 250 | Quiet, close to the city |
| Mawson Lakes | AUD 180 – 280 | Affordable, near UniSA |
| Norwood | AUD 200 – 300 | Safe and family-friendly |
Also Read: If you are a theatre enthusiast, then you must read our blog on Theatres in Australia
Perth – The Laid-Back City
Perth is perfect for students who prefer a relaxed and affordable lifestyle. Perth is one of the best places to live in Australia, offering a mix of city life and natural beauty. It has a warm climate, stunning beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle. The city is student-friendly, with affordable housing, good public transport, and top universities. Whether you prefer city living or a quiet suburb, Perth has many great options for students and professionals alike.
Why Choose Perth?
- Home to The University of Western Australia (UWA) and Curtin University
- Less crowded, peaceful environment
- Beautiful beaches and parks
- Lower cost of living than Sydney and Melbourne
Best Student Areas in Perth:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Subiaco | AUD 170 – 280 | Trendy area, well-connected |
| Victoria Park | AUD 160 – 270 | Affordable, good transport |
| Nedlands | AUD 180 – 300 | Close to UWA, student-friendly |
Canberra – The Student-Focused City
Canberra is Australia’s capital and a great place for students. It has top universities and a quiet, academic environment. It offers a high quality of life, excellent universities, and plenty of green spaces. The city is safe, well-planned, and has a strong job market. If you are looking for the best places to live in Australia, Canberra is a great choice with affordable housing, good public transport, and a welcoming community.
Why Choose Canberra?
- Home to The Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Canberra
- Affordable rent compared to Sydney and Melbourne
- Safe and student-friendly with a strong academic culture
- Well-planned public transport with buses and cycling routes
Best Student Areas in Canberra:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Belconnen | AUD 180 – 300 | Affordable, close to universities |
| Braddon | AUD 250 – 400 | Trendy, close to the city centre |
| Kingston | AUD 200 – 350 | Safe, good public transport |
Gold Coast – The Beach Paradise
Gold Coast is known for its beaches, nightlife, and relaxed lifestyle. It is one of the best places to live in Australia for students who love the outdoors. It’s a top choice for students and professionals looking for an affordable yet exciting place to stay. With great public transport, plenty of job opportunities, and a warm climate, the Gold Coast provides a perfect balance of city and coastal life.
Why Choose Gold Coast?
- Home to Griffith University and Bond University
- Affordable cost of living compared to major cities
- Warm weather all year round
- Strong tourism industry, providing part-time job opportunities
Best Student Areas in Gold Coast:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Southport | AUD 180 – 300 | Close to Griffith University |
| Surfers Paradise | AUD 250 – 400 | Lively, near the beach |
| Robina | AUD 200 – 350 | Safe, suburban feel |
Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, is one of the best places to live in Australia for students and professionals. It offers a peaceful environment, affordable housing, and a lower cost of living compared to big cities like Sydney or Melbourne. With stunning natural scenery, friendly locals, and a growing job market, Hobart is a great choice for those looking for quality living at an affordable price.
Why Choose Hobart?
- Home to The University of Tasmania (UTAS)
- Lowest cost of living among Australian cities
- Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and beautiful scenery
- Less crowded, with a small and welcoming community
Best Student Areas in Hobart:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sandy Bay | AUD 150 – 250 | Close to UTAS, student-friendly |
| North Hobart | AUD 180 – 280 | Trendy cafes, affordable rent |
| South Hobart | AUD 160 – 260 | Quiet, scenic environment |
Darwin – The Laid-Back Northern City
Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, is one of the best places to live in Australia for students and professionals. It offers a laid-back lifestyle, affordable housing, and a strong job market. The city is known for its warm climate, stunning beaches, and diverse culture. With a friendly community and excellent universities, Darwin is a great choice for those looking for a relaxed yet vibrant place to live.
Why Choose Darwin?
- Home to Charles Darwin University (CDU)
- Lower rent and cost of living compared to major cities
- Plenty of job opportunities in hospitality and tourism
- Close to natural attractions like Kakadu National Park
Best Student Areas in Darwin:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Casuarina | AUD 150 – 250 | Close to CDU, affordable rent |
| Nightcliff | AUD 180 – 280 | Near the beach, peaceful |
| Stuart Park | AUD 200 – 300 | Safe, good transport links |
Newcastle – The Underrated Student City
Newcastle is one of the best places to live in Australia for students and young professionals. It offers a perfect mix of city life and coastal beauty, with affordable housing, great universities, and a relaxed lifestyle. The city has excellent public transport, lively cafes, and beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and student-friendly place to stay, Newcastle is a great choice.
Why Choose Newcastle?
- Home to The University of Newcastle (UON)
- Lower cost of living compared to Sydney
- Beautiful beaches and outdoor lifestyle
- Good transport connections to Sydney
Best Student Areas in Newcastle:
| Area | Rent (Per Week) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jesmond | AUD 150 – 250 | Close to UON, affordable rent |
| Newcastle West | AUD 180 – 280 | Near the city, well-connected |
| Merewether | AUD 200 – 350 | Beachside location, relaxed vibe |
Best Places to Live in Australia Near the University of Melbourne
If you’re studying at the University of Melbourne, choosing the right place to live is important. You want a safe, affordable, and well-connected neighbourhood with easy access to campus, public transport, and amenities like supermarkets and cafes. Luckily, Melbourne has plenty of student-friendly areas to choose from!
Here are the best places to live near the University of Melbourne, with details on rent, distance, and student atmosphere.
| Suburb | Average Rent (per week) | Distance to UniMelb | Why Live Here? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carlton | AUD 250 – 400 | Walking distance (1 km) | Right next to campus, student hub, great cafes |
| Parkville | AUD 230 – 380 | Walking distance (1.5 km) | Quiet, green spaces, close to uni & hospitals |
| Brunswick | AUD 200 – 350 | 10 mins by tram | Affordable, diverse, great nightlife & markets |
| North Melbourne | AUD 220 – 370 | 5 mins by tram | Close to CBD, lively, student-friendly |
| Fitzroy | AUD 280 – 450 | 15 mins by tram | Artsy vibe, amazing food, fun social scene |
Further Read: If you want to compare the cost of living in Australia and the UK, then you must read our blog Cost of Living in Australia vs the UK
Best Places to Live in Australia Near the Brighton University
If you’re planning to study at Brighton University and looking for the best places to live in Australia, you need a student-friendly area with affordable rent, easy transport, and nearby amenities. The good news? There are several great options near the university that offer a mix of safety, budget-friendly housing, and a lively student community. Here are five of the best places to live near Brighton University:
| Area | Average Rent (per week) | Distance to Brighton University | Why Live Here? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kemptown | GBP 150 – GBP 180 | 10-15 min by bus | Close to the beach, lively student community, affordable |
| Moulsecoomb | GBP 130 – GBP 160 | 5 min walk | Budget-friendly, near campus, good student facilities |
| Hove | GBP 160 – GBP 190 | 15-20 min by bus | Quiet and safe, great cafes, well-connected |
| Hanover | GBP 140 – GBP 170 | 15 min by bus | Social and student-friendly, good pubs and markets |
| Lewes Road | GBP 135 – GBP 165 | 10 min by bus | Affordable, lots of student housing, near supermarkets |
Further Read: If you are planning to move to Australia then you must know the basics of Australian Etiquette and Culture.
QS Ranking For Best Student Cities in Australia
With some of the top universities providing quality education, Australia is a preferable choice for study-abroad aspirants. The QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025 evaluates cities based on factors like affordability, student mix, desirability, and employer activity. Check out some of the best student cities in Australia and their QS Ranking.
Top Student Cities in Australia – QS Rankings 2025
| City | QS World Ranking 2025 | Why is it Great for Students? |
|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | #4 | Cultural hub, top universities, great public transport |
| Sydney | #6 | High employability, beaches, vibrant student life |
| Brisbane | #22 | Affordable, warm climate, friendly atmosphere |
| Canberra | #34 | Home to ANU, safe and quiet, high quality of life |
| Perth | #36 | Relaxed lifestyle, great job opportunities, nature nearby |
| Adelaide | #42 | Low cost of living, student-friendly, growing tech sector |
| Gold Coast | #89 | Beautiful beaches, smaller city with great universities |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Place to Live in Australia
Before choosing where to live, you need to consider a few important factors. Australia is a diverse country with different cities offering unique lifestyles. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
1. Budget & Rent Costs: Rent varies depending on the city and neighbourhood. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are expensive, while places like Adelaide and Hobart are more affordable.
Average weekly rent for a shared apartment:
- Sydney: AUD 250 – 400
- Melbourne: AUD 200 – 350
- Brisbane: AUD 180 – 300
- Adelaide: AUD 150 – 250
- Perth: AUD 170 – 280
2. Safety & Student-Friendly Neighborhoods: Safety is a big concern for international students. Choose areas with low crime rates and a welcoming student community. Universities often provide safety advice and resources for international students.
3. Transport & Connectivity: Living near public transport makes life easier. Check for buses, trams, and trains to your university. Cities like Melbourne and Sydney have well-connected transport systems, but smaller cities may require a car or bicycle.
4. Nearby Markets & Basic Amenities: Look for areas with affordable grocery stores, hospitals, and restaurants. Some places have South Asian grocery stores where you can buy familiar food items.
5. Social Inclusivity & Community: As an international student, you may prefer areas with diverse communities. Some neighbourhoods have large Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan populations, making it easier to feel at home.
Cost of Living in Australia for Students
Studying in Australia is expensive, but knowing the expected costs can help you plan better. Here’s a breakdown of the monthly cost of living in Australia for students.
1. Rent: Rent is the biggest expense. Prices depend on the city and type of accommodation.
Average Rent for Students in Major Cities:
| City | Shared Apartment | Studio Apartment |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | AUD 250 – 400/week | AUD 500 – 700/week |
| Melbourne | AUD 200 – 350/week | AUD 450 – 650/week |
| Brisbane | AUD 180 – 300/week | AUD 400 – 600/week |
| Adelaide | AUD 150 – 280/week | AUD 350 – 550/week |
| Perth | AUD 160 – 290/week | AUD 380 – 580/week |
2. Food & Groceries: Cooking at home is cheaper than eating out.
Average Monthly Grocery Cost:
- Sydney – AUD 300
- Melbourne – AUD 250
- Brisbane – AUD 200
Tip: Buy groceries from Aldi, Woolworths, or Coles for the best deals.
3. Transport
- Public transport pass: AUD 100 – 150 per month
- Cycling: Almost free!
- Occasional Uber: AUD 50 – 100 per month
4. Utilities & Internet
- Electricity, gas, and water: AUD 50 – 100 per month
- Internet: AUD 60 – 100 per month
Tip: Choose accommodation with bills included to save money.
5. Entertainment & Miscellaneous
- Gym membership: AUD 40 – 80 per month
- Mobile phone plan: AUD 30 – 60 per month
- Eating out: AUD 50 – 150 per month
FAQs on Best Places to Live in Australia
The best places to live in Australia for students include Alelaide, Canberra, NSW, and more.
New South Wales offers world-class surfing spots, including the iconic Bondi Beach. The region’s great climate also offers great outdoor adventures all year round, and there you can find various student accommodations.
Brighton is home to the renowned Brighton University and offers affordable student accommodations nearby.
Melbourne is home to top universities, such as the University of Melbourne and Monash University. The cities also offer an amazing cultural scene, excellent public transportation, and a low crime rate.
Yes, apart from its famous beaches, New South Wales offers many activities such as music festivals and food markets.
With home to over 5 million people Sydney is the largest and most populous city in Australia.
Some of the best cities in Australia for international students are Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, and Gold Coast.
Yes, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester. Popular part-time jobs include retail, hospitality, and tutoring.
Sydney and Melbourne have the most job opportunities for students. Brisbane and Perth also offer good part-time work in retail, cafes, and offices.
Melbourne is often ranked as the best city for student life. It has top universities, lively nightlife, cultural festivals, and great public transport.
Thank you for reading our blog on the best places to live in Australia. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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