Student Accommodation in Canberra

Student Accommodation in Canberra

Canberra is the capital city of Australia and is located in the Australian Capital Territory. It’s also home to important places such as Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and Questacon. Canberra is known as the "Bush Capital" because it is surrounded by parks, nature reserves, and open spaces. It’s a great choice for students, with top universities such as the Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Canberra (UC). Students also benefit from access to major research centres, government institutions, and cultural attractions. The city offers a high quality of life, short commutes, and more than 400 km of cycle paths. According to 2024 data, Canberra has 40,964 students, including 13,712 international students and 27,252 domestic students.

Finding student accommodation in Canberra can be tough and highly competitive, especially for students looking to live close to their university. However, the rental market is generally less difficult than in cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The average weekly rent for student accommodation in Canberra is around A$171, according to UniAcco's internal data. Students should start looking for accommodation early to have more options and avoid the rush. With UniAcco, students can compare verified student accommodation in Canberra, explore different room types and prices, and get 24/7 support to find the right student home.

 

Canberra Student Housing in 60 Seconds

 

Why Choose Student Accommodation in Canberra?

Canberra is a great choice for students who want a peaceful city, top universities, and easy travel. The city is home to the Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Canberra, with over 40,000 students. Student accommodation in Canberra costs around A$171 per week. Non-ensuite rooms are the most popular and affordable option at around A$129 per week, while ensuite rooms cost around A$228 per week and studios around A$218 per week. Popular student areas include Acton, Bruce, Braddon, Turner, and O’Connor, with many options close to the universities. Canberra also offers short commutes, over 400 km of cycle paths, and easy bus and light rail connections. The city is known for its parks, cultural attractions, and high quality of life, making it a comfortable place for students. Since accommodation can be highly competitive near universities, especially in January and February, students should start looking early.

 

UniAcco Insights:

• Average weekly rent: AUD $171 
• 48% of students choose non-ensuite rooms, averaging AUD $129/week — the dominant choice 
• 19% choose ensuite rooms, averaging AUD $228/week 
• 19% choose studios, averaging AUD $218/week 

 

Accommodation Types Available in Canberra

 

Top 10 Affordable Student Accommodation in Canberra

Finding affordable student accommodation in Canberra can be challenging, especially during the busy January and February period. The average weekly rent is around A$171, but prices vary by room type. Non-ensuite rooms are the most popular choice, with 48% of students choosing them at an average of A$129 per week. Below are 10 affordable student accommodations in Canberra for students at UniAcco; these properties also offer an all-inclusive bills service. 

• UniLodge - UC Guginya / Campus West
• UniLodge at UC – Weeden Lodge
• UniGarden
• UniLodge at UC - UC Lodge
• UniLodge at UC Cooper Lodge

 

Best Student Housing in Canberra

The best student housing in Canberra depends on more than just the weekly rent. Students should also consider the room type, location, facilities, transport links, and nearby shops and cafés. Non-ensuite rooms are the clear choice for students on a budget, while ensuite rooms and studios offer more privacy. Below are some of the best student accommodation options in Canberra at UniAcco, which offers more than proximity, such as an on-site gym, laundry, study area, and cinema room, with all utility bills included.

• Greystar on Moore
• Australia Home Stay - Canberra
• Dickson Village Apartments
• UniLodge - Academie House
• UniLodge - on Gould

 

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Canberra

• Acton 

Acton is Canberra’s main university area, mostly centred around ANU. ANU is just a 3-minute walk away. It is also home to the Australian National Botanic Gardens and the National Museum of Australia, so there are plenty of places to explore between classes. With cafés and university facilities nearby, the area has a strong student feel. 

• Bruce 

Bruce is a good option if you enjoy sports and outdoor activities. It is home to the Australian Institute of Sport, as well as the University of Canberra, and has plenty of open spaces around the area. The University of Canberra is around a 6-minute walk away. The suburb is also named after Stanley Bruce, a former Australian Prime Minister and the first Chancellor of ANU. 

• Braddon 

Braddon is one of Canberra’s older suburbs, but today it is better known for its cafés, restaurants, bars and independent shops, especially around Lonsdale Street. It is also home to Gorman House, a heritage-listed building that now works as a community arts space. ANU is also nearby, just a 20-minute walk away.

• Turner 

Turner is a leafy suburb with plenty of trees, quiet streets and green spaces. It is also home to part of Haig Park, a large pine forest that was originally planted to protect Canberra from dust. Its cafés and relaxed atmosphere make it popular with students who want to stay close to the city without living right in the centre.

• O’Connor 

O’Connor is a quiet, leafy suburb with heritage homes, local cafés and plenty of green space. It borders the Bruce/O’Connor Ridge Nature Reserve, making it a good spot if you enjoy walking and being outdoors. The suburb is also known for its unusual Tocumwal Houses, which were moved from a former air force base after World War II. 

 

Student Accommodation Near Top Universities in Canberra

 

Getting Around Canberra — Student Travel Guide

Canberra is easy to get around, especially for students living near their university. Students can walk or cycle for short trips, while buses and light rail connect different parts of the city. Canberra’s MyWay+ system also makes public transport simple, with affordable fares and free 90-minute transfers between buses and light rail.

 

Transport options and costs:

 

Student Life in Canberra

• Cafés and Study Spaces

Canberra has plenty of study spaces for students who want to get out of their rooms. The National Library of Australia offers quiet reading areas, free Wi-Fi and plenty of space to focus, while Kita Café is a good option for night owls as it stays open until early morning. ANU students can also use the Marie Reay Teaching Centre, and Highroad in Dickson is a more social spot for coffee and study sessions.

• Student Societies

Students can join over 70 student-run clubs and societies at the University of Canberra, covering social, cultural and sporting interests. Groups such as UCREC organise games, Dungeons and Dragons nights and other events, while the UC Communications Club brings together students interested in marketing, journalism, public relations and media.

• Shopping

From weekend markets to large shopping centres, Canberra has plenty of places for students to shop. The Haig Park Village Markets, Old Bus Depot Markets and Fyshwick Markets are good for fresh food and local products, while Canberra Centre has popular fashion, beauty and retail stores. Students can also visit Westfield Woden, Westfield Belconnen and Westfield South. 

• Sports and Fitness

Students can stay active through university gyms, fitness classes and outdoor activities. ANU and the University of Canberra offer student gym memberships, weights, cardio equipment and group exercise classes. Canberra also has plenty of free walking and cycling paths around Lake Burley Griffin for students who prefer exercising outdoors.

• Nightlife and Entertainment

Canberra has plenty to offer for students looking for a night out, from food halls and live music to bars and theatre. Students can explore places like Verity Lane, catch gigs at Smiths Alternative or Fun Time Pony, or watch performances at Canberra Theatre Centre and The Street Theatre. The city also hosts major events throughout the year, including Floriade NightFest, the Enlighten Festival and the National Multicultural Festival.

 

When Should You Book Student Accommodation in Canberra

Students who book the best student accommodation in Canberra before the rush get the best deal. The most affordable properties in areas like Acton, Bruce, and Braddon tend to sell out early, especially for the February intake. Check out the recommended booking period below: 

 

Why Book Student Accommodation in Canberra with UniAcco?

Follow the steps below and get your favourite student accommodation abroad.

Step 1: Compare prices and properties

First, choose the destination where you want to book the accommodation. Then, from 10 verified listings, shortlist accommodations that suit your needs and lifestyle by comparing prices and properties.

Step 2: Fill in your details 

Once you have shortlisted your accommodation, fill in your basic details, such as your name, mobile number, and email address. Make sure the information you put in is correct.

Step 3: Talk to our expert and get confirmation

Once you fill in the information, our student expert team will reach out to you within hours. They will guide you through contracts, deposits and rental agreements. Basically, they will be there for you 24/7 till you move into your accommodation.