Where to Live in Sydney as a Study Abroad Student: A Guide to the Best Suburbs

Moving across the world is overwhelming enough, and choosing where to live in Sydney can feel like a challenge of its own. Do you want to live near campus or the beach? In a quiet neighborhood or somewhere with a great social scene?

This guide breaks down some of the most popular suburbs for international students in Sydney, with honest pros and cons. Whether you're looking for convenience, affordability, or lifestyle, there's a suburb that can match your priorities.

What Makes a Good Student Suburb?

Before diving into specific areas, here are a few things that students typically consider when choosing where to live:

• Proximity to university (UNSW, USyd, UTS, etc.)

• Access to public transportation

• Weekly rent for share housing or studios

• Access to food, shops, and student essentials

• The general vibe — beachy, quiet, trendy, or social

Best Suburbs for Study Abroad Students in Sydney

1. Kensington

Best for: Walking distance to UNSWKensington is a quiet, student-heavy suburb located directly next to the University of New South Wales. The light rail runs through the main street, making it easy to access the city. While there’s not much nightlife, it’s a convenient and popular place to live if your classes are on campus.

2. Coogee

Best for: A beach lifestyle close to campus. Coogee offers the perfect balance of university access and ocean views. Just a short bus ride or walk to UNSW, it’s known for its relaxed vibe, scenic walks, and beach cafés. Housing tends to be more expensive near the water, but the lifestyle is hard to beat.

3. Randwick

Best for: A blend of convenience and student life. Randwick is located between Kensington and Coogee and offers easy access to both. There’s a mix of apartments and share houses, along with a growing number of shops, cafés, and transport connections. It's a reliable choice for students who want a bit of everything.

4. Bondi Beach

Best for: Social, outgoing students who don’t mind a commute. Bondi is one of Sydney’s most famous suburbs, and the beach lifestyle is a major draw. You’ll find everything from surf schools to rooftop bars. However, it’s more expensive and further from most university campuses, making it a better fit for students who prioritize lifestyle over proximity.

5. Newtown

Best for: University of Sydney students and creative types. Newtown is known for its eclectic style, music scene, and diversity. It’s a favorite among students at the University of Sydney and offers excellent public transport access. While it’s not close to the beach, it’s ideal if you want late-night food, live music, and a unique community vibe.

6. Ultimo / Chippendale

Best for: UTS students and central convenience. These inner-city suburbs are minutes from Central Station and the University of Technology Sydney. Housing is typically apartments or converted warehouse spaces. You’ll be close to shopping, Chinatown, and many key attractions.

7. Kingsford

Best for: Budget-friendly housing near UNSW. Kingsford is often considered a more affordable version of Kensington. It’s a practical and student-friendly suburb that offers easy access to UNSW and is known for its wide selection of cheap and casual dining options.

8. Surry Hills

Best for: Trendy student living with city access. Surry Hills is a lively, fashionable suburb close to the city with a mix of terrace houses and apartment blocks. It’s pricier, but popular among students who want to be close to restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Tips for Choosing the Right Suburb

• Use Google Maps or the Opal Trip Planner to test commute times before signing a lease.

• Set a clear rent budget and understand whether utilities are included.

• Join Facebook housing groups or use Flatmates.com.au for listings and sublets.

Ready to Apartment Hunt?

Your choice of suburb can shape your entire study abroad experience. If you want more detailed suburb comparisons, suburb maps, student housing types, and more, check out the full housing guide here.