Top 5 student cities in Australia

Discover the favourite cities for university students in Australia and what makes them unique.

If you’re thinking about doing an exchange programme or starting your university studies abroad, discovering the top 5 student cities in Australia is an excellent place to start. This country is one of the most popular destinations for international students thanks to its high-quality education, multicultural environment and relaxed lifestyle, with beaches, nature and great academic opportunities. In addition, Australia stands out among the best university options in the world for its universities with excellent educational quality and its excellent quality of life for students.

Throughout the article, you’ll find practical information about each city: the pros and cons of studying there, the most prominent universities, and average rental prices for students. This will allow you to compare options and make an informed decision based on your budget and lifestyle.

Furthermore, through our online student accommodation platform, you can search for and book your verified room in different cities across Australia, simply and securely!

Melbourne

Melbourne is one of Australia's most popular university destinations. It has a vibrant cultural scene, a large international student community, and a world-class education system. What's more, its modern, artistic vibe makes it an entertaining city for all tastes. And it's regularly ranked among the world's most liveable cities!

Pros and cons of studying in Melbourne

Melbourne offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.

Pros of studying in Melbourne

It’s considered one of the best cities to live in, whether for a short stay or a long one.
Very good public transport.
It’s a diverse and multicultural city.
Wide range of cultural and sporting activities.

Cons of studying in Melbourne

The cost of living is higher compared to other cities.
It’s known for having "four seasons in one day", meaning that the weather changes a lot.
Although there are opportunities for students, the job market is often highly competitive.

Top universities in Melbourne

Melbourne is home to some of the country's most prestigious institutions.

University of Melbourne

It’s Australia's oldest university and is usually ranked among the top 15 in international university rankings, such as the QS World University Rankings. It has three campuses in Melbourne (Parkville Campus, Southbank Campus and Burnley Campus) and others in various cities in the state of Victoria.

Find more practical information about the university and its faculties in the guide to accommodation near the University of Melbourne.

Monash University

Monash University is one of the largest in the country in terms of the number of students it enrols each year. It has several campuses in Melbourne and across the state, with the main campus located in the Clayton district of the city.

If you’re going to study there, don’t miss our guide to student housing close to Monash University.

Student housing in Melbourne

The cost of student accommodation in Melbourne varies depending on the area and type of accommodation, but it’s generally expensive compared to other Australian cities. On average, a room in a shared flat typically costs between AUD$150 and AUD$400 per week.

Are you looking for accommodation in Victoria's capital city? Read our guide to student accommodation in Melbourne, featuring the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.

Sydney

Sydney is one of those cities that has it all: incredible beaches, mild weather almost all year round, and top-notch universities. It’s another of the most popular destinations for foreign students coming to Australia, and it isn’t difficult to understand why: it balances academic life with a huge cultural offering and an energy that never fades.

Pros and cons of studying in Sydney

Living and studying in Sydney offers many benefits, although there are also certain negative aspects to consider during your stay.

Pros of studying in Sydney

It’s the most cosmopolitan city in the country, with students and residents from all over the world.
You can enjoy its famous beaches, such as Bondi or Coogee.
The job opportunities for students are very good.
Public transport works very well and has good connections to other parts of the country for travelling.

Cons of studying in Sydney

It has the highest cost of living in the country.
It’s a very touristy town and the interesting areas tend to be crowded.
Traffic is very heavy during rush hour.

Top Universities in Sydney

The capital of New South Wales is also home to a number of world-renowned universities.

University of Sydney

USYD is the oldest institution in Australia and one of the oldest English-speaking institutions in the world. It has many campuses in the city, with the Camperdown/Darlington Campus being the largest and most important.

Explore locations, neighbourhoods, and tips in the guide to accommodation near the University of Sydney.

University of Technology Sydney

This institution is among the most prominent in the world in the field of technology. Its main campus consists of several buildings in the neighbourhoods of Ultimo and Haymarket.

See the complete guide to student housing close to the University of Technology for more information.

Student housing in Sydney

The average budget for rentals in Sydney is typically higher than in Melbourne, and therefore among the highest in the country. Prices average between AUD$270 and AUD$400 per week for a single room in a shared flat.

To find out more about student accommodation in Sydney, check out our guide with all the most interesting information you need to know.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a city that surprises many international students. It has a warm climate almost all year round, a relaxed atmosphere and is the ideal size: large enough to offer everything, but without the fast pace of Sydney or Melbourne. What's more, its location makes it perfect for those who enjoy nature, outdoor sports, and weekend getaways.

Pros and cons of studying in Brisbane

Studying in Brisbane can be amazing, although there are also some drawbacks to consider.

Pros of studying in Brisbane

The budget for a student is more affordable than in larger cities.
A quieter lifestyle, but with everything a big city has to offer.
Subtropical climate that allows you to enjoy the outdoors all year round.
Ideal for those who want to be closer to iconic Australian natural sites, such as the Great Barrier Reef.

Cons of studying in Brisbane

Getting to the beaches by public transport is complicated.
Summer can be very hot and rainy.
The variety of restaurants and leisure activities is less than in larger cities.

Top Universities in Brisbane

The capital of the state of Queensland has some very well-known universities.

University of Queensland

This prestigious institution has a very good academic reputation and has been ranked among the top 50 in the world in various academic disciplines. It has several campuses in and around Brisbane, the main one being the St Lucia Campus, located in the neighbourhood of the same name.

Find out everything you need to know about the university and its surroundings in our guide to accommodation near the University of Queensland.

CQ University, Brisbane

The CQ University in this Queensland city is renowned for its inclusive environment and practical approach to teaching. Its campus is located in the CBD (Central Business District).

Find useful information about areas and accommodation in the guide to housing close to the CQ University, Brisbane.

Student housing in Brisbane

Rental prices in Brisbane are considerably more affordable than in other Australian cities. A room in a shared flat costs on average between AUD 200 and AUD 300 per week, depending on the area.

Are you planning to study in Queensland's capital city? Don't miss our guide to student accommodation in Brisbane, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a quiet, safe city that’s very popular with students looking for a more relaxed experience without compromising on educational quality. The capital of South Australia is known for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent quality of life for the cost, and proximity to beaches and natural parks. It also has an interesting cultural life and is the ideal size to get around easily by bicycle or public transport.

Pros and cons of studying in Adelaide

The academic experience in Adelaide has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

Pros of studying in Adelaide

Rent and expenses are cheaper than in larger cities.
The student atmosphere is international fun.
Coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere.
Easy access to the beach (and everywhere else) by public transport.

Cons of studying in Adelaide

Leisure activities may be more limited than in larger cities.
There are fewer job opportunities for students.
Its relaxed atmosphere may be too quiet for those seeking more activity.

Top Universities in Adelaide

Adelaide boasts some highly prestigious institutions.

Adelaide University

This university also regularly features in lists of the best institutions in the world and in Australia. It has several campuses in Adelaide and one in Melbourne. The main campus is North Terrace, in the neighbourhood of the same name.

Find out more details in the guide to accommodation near Adelaide University.

University of South Australia

UniSA is newer than the universities mentioned above, but it’s nonetheless one of the most renowned in the country. It has multiple campuses in Adelaide, the largest of which is in the West End neighbourhood.

If you’re thinking of studying there, we recommend reading our guide to housing close to the University of South Australia.

Student housing in Adelaide

Accommodation in Adelaide is more affordable than in other major Australian cities. A room in a shared flat typically costs between AUD 150 and AUD 300 per week, depending on the location.

If you’re going to study in the capital of South Australia, check out our guide of student accommodation in Adelaide with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.

Perth

If you’re looking for a different university experience, Perth may be the ideal place. Located on the west coast of Australia, it’s a city with a relaxed lifestyle. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, this seaside city offers stunning beaches and a growing international community.

Pros and cons of studying in Perth

Perth stands out for its benefits for students, but it also has some weaknesses.

Pros of studying in Perth

Warm and sunny climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year.
The atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful.
The standard of living is more affordable than in other large cities, mainly because it receives fewer tourists.
It offers many job opportunities in different fields.

Cons of studying in Perth

The distance to other cities makes exploring Australia more expensive.
Social life can be too relaxed.
Although cheaper than Sydney or Melbourne, it’s usually more expensive than Adelaide, for example.

Top Universities in Perth

The capital of Western Australia is home to the state's most prestigious institutions.

Curtin University

This leading institution in the region typically has almost 30% of its students coming from overseas, creating a multicultural and international environment. Its campuses are located in Perth, in suburban areas and even in other cities.

Find the best areas to live in our article on accommodation near Curtin University.

Murdoch University

This institution offers programmes geared towards professional practice, with excellent links to the job market. The Murdoch Campus is the main campus, located in the area of the same name in Perth.

In this guide, we tell you more about their locations and how to find housing near Murdoch University.

Student housing in Perth

The cost of accommodation in Perth is more affordable than in most major Australian cities. The most economical option is usually a room in a shared flat, which typically costs between AUD$180 and AUD$350 per week.

Find out more about flats, rooms, residences and areas of the city in our guide to student accommodation in Perth.

Find accommodation in Australia with Erasmus Play

Exploring the top 5 student cities in Australia is the first step in planning an unforgettable university experience. Each destination has its own charm: the cosmopolitan energy of Sydney and Melbourne, the warm and relaxed climate of Brisbane, the tranquillity of Adelaide or the sunny spirit of Perth. The important thing is to choose the city that best suits your lifestyle, interests and budget.

Once you’ve chosen between Australia's university cities, you can use our online student accommodation platform to compare and book verified flats, residences and rooms in all these cities easily and securely. This way, you can focus on enjoying your exchange, meeting new people, and making the most of everything Australia has to offer!

Other guides on studying and living in Australia

If you haven't made up your mind yet and want to see more information about the different destinations, here are some more interesting guides to read: