Best Place to Live in Australia for Students

Choosing the best place to live in Australia for students can shape your entire university experience. From vibrant cultural hubs to student-friendly neighbourhoods, Australia offers world-class cities with excellent universities and student communities. This guide explores the best cities to live in Australia for students, plus the most popular areas within them.

Best Cities to Live in Australia for Students

Australia consistently ranks among the top destinations for students worldwide. From Melbourne’s artsy laneways to Sydney’s coastal lifestyle, there’s a city for every type of student. According to the QS Best Student Cities 2026, both Melbourne and Sydney rank among the top 10 globally, with Adelaide, Canberra, and Brisbane also making the list.

Let’s explore each city in detail to help answer the question: where do university students live in Australia?

1. Melbourne

Often regarded as the best city in Australia for students - and ranked #5 globally - Melbourne blends a dynamic cultural scene with prestigious universities. With excellent public transport, thriving café culture, and student-friendly suburbs, it’s no wonder thousands of local and international students call it home.

Learn more on our Melbourne location page

Carlton

Carlton is home to the iconic University of Melbourne, leafy streets, and countless Italian restaurants on Lygon Street. It’s a lively student hub with easy access to campus and the CBD.

Parkville

Parkville is popular for students studying at Monash University’s Parkville campus and offers plenty of green space, bike paths, and proximity to Melbourne Zoo.

Flagstaff

Just west of the CBD, Flagstaff offers a mix of convenience and lifestyle. Students living at Accolade on A’Beckett are steps away from trams, shopping, and Flagstaff Gardens, perfect for unwinding after classes.

2. Sydney

Ranked #6 globally, Sydney is another contender for the best place to live in Australia for students. Known for its stunning beaches, global business hub, and diverse neighbourhoods, it offers both lifestyle and career opportunities.

Explore our Sydney location page .

Glebe

Close to the University of Notre Dame, Glebe is packed with bookstores, cafés, and weekend markets. Its village-like vibe makes it a favourite among students.

Redfern

Redfern has transformed into one of Sydney’s coolest suburbs. With its mix of cultural spaces and trendy eateries, it’s ideal for students at the University of Sydney or those living at Accolade on Regent or Accolade on Gibbons.

Ultimo

Ultimo is at the heart of student life, with the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) right in the centre. Affordable eateries, proximity to Chinatown, and central transport links make it a prime student location.

3. Adelaide

Adelaide is smaller and more affordable than Melbourne or Sydney, making it one of the best cities in Australia for international students. With beaches, wine regions, and world-class universities nearby, it offers a relaxed but vibrant lifestyle.

Check out our Adelaide location page.

Central Market

Adelaide Central Market is a hotspot for food lovers. Students living at Accolade on Waymouth or Accolade on Gray are just a short stroll from fresh produce, cafés, and cultural events.

Botanic Garden

Near the University of Adelaide, the Botanic Garden area combines study spaces with beautiful parklands, perfect for students who enjoy a balance of nature and academics.

North Adelaide

A favourite for University of South Australia students, North Adelaide is filled with heritage homes, boutique shops, and quiet streets while still being close to the city.

4. Canberra

Canberra, Australia’s capital, offers a high quality of life, safe environment, and excellent universities, making it another strong contender for the best city in Australia for students. With bike-friendly streets and plenty of green spaces, it’s especially appealing for students who enjoy the outdoors.

Explore our Canberra location page.

Belconnen

Located near the University of Canberra, Belconnen is a lakeside suburb with shopping centres, parks, and student-friendly apartments.

Braddon

Trendy and vibrant, Braddon is home to cafés, street art, and boutique shopping. Students staying at Accolade on Moore will love being right in the heart of the action.

Yukeembruk Village

Close to the Australian National University (ANU), Yukeembruk Village is a mix of history, community, and convenience, making it a desirable student neighbourhood.

5. Brisbane

Brisbane is fast rising as a top student destination. With its subtropical climate, riverfront lifestyle, and affordable living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, it’s becoming one of the best places to live in Australia for students. The city is home to major universities like the University of Queensland and Queensland University of Technology.

Live in Your Dream City with Accolade

Australia offers some of the best cities for students in the world, from Melbourne’s cultural capital to Sydney’s coastal energy, Adelaide’s affordability, Canberra’s lifestyle, and Brisbane’s sunshine. Wherever you choose, Accolade is here to help you find not just a room, but a home.

Start your journey today: [Book accommodation].