Student Accommodation in Melbourne

Student Accommodation in Melbourne

Melbourne is the capital city of the state of Victoria, located on the southeastern coast of Australia. The city is known as Australia’s sports capital for its world-class centralised sporting precinct, passionate sports culture, and rich history of hosting major local and international events. The city hosts massive international events including the Australian Open and the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix. Apart from its strong sports culture, students love this city for its strong culture and top-ranked universities such as the University of Melbourne and RMIT University. According to Australia City 2024, the city has 458,459 students, of whom 198,664 are international, and 259,795 are domestic.

Finding student accommodation in Melbourne is no small feat. Due to the large student population, the city has a limited number of beds; they get booked early, so they can’t meet the high demand. Fortunately, the PBSA market in the city is working through this big gap and creating new strategies to meet the high demand. Students should book accommodation in Melbourne at least 3-4 months before the intake. With UniAcco, Students can compare verified student accommodation in Melbourne, explore different room types and prices, and get 24/7 support to find the right student home. 

 

Melbourne Student Housing in 60 Seconds

 

Why Choose Student Accommodation in Melbourne?

Melbourne is a popular student city with top universities, a large student community, and a strong sports culture. The average student accommodation rent is around A$200 per week, with non-ensuite rooms being the most affordable option at around A$176 per week, while studios and ensuites cost around A$218 and A$213 per week. Students can also choose from different room types and live in popular areas such as Fitzroy, Carlton, Brunswick, Parkville and the CBD. Since accommodation is in high demand, it is best to start looking 3-4 months before your intake.

 

UniAcco Insights

• Average weekly rent: AUD $200 
• 37% of students choose non-ensuite rooms, averaging AUD $176/week 
• 21% choose studios, the most premium option at AUD $218/week 
• 19% choose ensuite rooms, averaging AUD $213/week 
• A noticeably more even spread across room types than most UK cities, reflecting local student living preferences 

 

Accommodation Types Available in Melbourne

 

Top 10 Affordable Student Accommodation in Melbourne

Finding affordable student accommodation in Melbourne can be challenging, especially in popular student areas. The average rent and room prices can vary depending on the location, room type and facilities. Below are 10 affordable student accommodation options in Melbourne perfect for those who want a comfortable place to live without spending too much. These properties at UniAcco offer an all-inclusive bills service, which means students won’t only get an affordable room but also save on electricity, water, heating, and WiFi bills. 

1. Indi Footscray
2. Student Living - 550 Lygon
3. Carric Hostel
4. UniLodge La Trobe University - Chisholm College
5. UniLodge - Victoria University
6. UniLodge La Trobe University Regional Housing - Melton
7. OziVillage Swanston
8. Newport, Melbourne
9. UniLodge - La Trobe University - Glenn College
10. Carrichill

 

Best Student Housing in Melbourne

The best student housing in Melbourne is not just about finding a room close to university. Things like the area, room type, facilities, transport links and nearby shops and cafés also matter. Below are some of the best student accommodation options in Melbourne, which offer top modern amenities like a gym, cinema room, games room and include utility bills.

1. Student Living - 800 Swanston, Melbourne
2. Student Village Melbourne
3. Dwell Village Melbourne City
4. UniLodge - Royal Melbourne
5. UniLodge - Lincoln House
6. Student Living - Lonsdale
7. Melbourne Victoria Markets
8. Student Living - 570 Lygon
9. Student Living - 590 Lygon
10. Student Living - Raleigh

 

Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Melbourne

• Fitzroy

Fitzroy is one of Melbourne's oldest suburbs and is known for its creative vibe. Brunswick Street in Fitzroy is filled with street art, live music venues, vintage shops, cafés and restaurants, making it a fun place to spend time with friends. The area also has a strong music and arts scene, with plenty of cheap eats for students. The University of Melbourne is around a 20-minute walk away, while RMIT is about 15 minutes by bus.

• Carlton

Known as Melbourne's Little Italy, Carlton is centred around Lygon Street, where students can find Italian restaurants, cafés, gelaterias and plenty of places to eat. The area is also close to the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens, giving students places to explore outside university. The University of Melbourne is just a 4-minute walk away, while RMIT is around an 11-minute walk, making Carlton a convenient choice for students who also want plenty of food and entertainment nearby.

• Melbourne CBD

If you want to be close to the action, Melbourne CBD is a popular choice. It has shopping centres, restaurants, cafés, nightlife and famous laneways such as Hosier Lane and Degraves Street. Flinders Street Station and the Free Tram Zone also make it easy to get around the city. RMIT is around a 9-minute walk away, while the University of Melbourne is about a 19-minute walk. It is a good option for students who like being close to everything.

• Brunswick

Brunswick has a lively and multicultural feel, especially around Sydney Road, where you can find Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and South Asian food, shops and cafés. The area is also known for live music and independent venues, giving it a more relaxed and local feel. Rent can be more affordable than in areas like Carlton and Fitzroy, while trams make it easy to travel around. The University of Melbourne is about 14 minutes by bus, and RMIT is around a 25-minute bus ride away.

• Parkville

Parkville is a quieter area with plenty of green space, thanks to Royal Park, one of Melbourne's largest inner-city parks. It is also home to major hospitals and research centres, giving the area a strong academic and medical feel. Students who prefer a quieter place to live can enjoy being close to the city without being right in the middle of the nightlife. The University of Melbourne is around 12 minutes by bus, while RMIT takes about 34 minutes by bus.

 

Student Accommodation Near Top Universities in Melbourne

 

Getting Around Melbourne — Student Travel Guide

 

Transport options and costs:

 

Student Life in Melbourne

Melbourne has plenty to offer students outside the classroom, from study cafés and student clubs to shopping, sports and nightlife. Whether you want a quiet place to study, meet new people or spend your weekends exploring the city, there are plenty of options.

• Cafés and Study Spaces

On days when Students don’t feel like studying in their room, they explore the city around. Melbourne has plenty of cafés and libraries where they can study or take a break. A few of the popular spaces are: Udom House, which offers a Thai-inspired setting with Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and food like pandan kaya toast and iced coffee. St Ali and the Queen, near Queen Victoria Market, also have plenty of seating, Wi-Fi, and food throughout the day. And if you are an RMIT student, Nana's Green Tea near the university is the best choice. It’s a popular choice for matcha, cakes, and meals like udon and katsu curry. For a quieter study session, the State Library of Victoria offers large reading rooms, including the famous La Trobe Reading Room.

• Student Societies

The University of Melbourne has over 200 clubs and societies, so students can find groups based on their interests. There are clubs for music, books, chess, culture, politics and more. Students interested in public health can join the Global Health Society, while the Book Club is a good option for those who enjoy reading. Rock and Metal Society brings together students who enjoy rock, metal, punk, emo and similar music. There are also political clubs, such as the Labor Club, for students interested in politics and campaigns.

• Shopping

Melbourne has plenty of shopping options for students. Queen Victoria Market is a good place to find food, clothes, art and other everyday items, while St Collins Lane has clothing, jewellery and food outlets in the CBD. For students looking for discounts, DFO South Wharf has factory outlet stores selling clothing, homeware and other products at lower prices.

• Sports and Fitness

Students can stay active through the many sports and fitness facilities around Melbourne. The University of Melbourne has gyms, workout areas, group fitness classes and a heated 25-metre indoor pool. Students can also use facilities such as MSAC, Lakeside Stadium and the State Netball and Hockey Centre for different sports and activities.

• Nightlife and Entertainment

For weekend nights out, students won’t have to worry about anything in Melbourne. The city has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of places for music, dancing and entertainment. Heroes is a multi-level karaoke and rooftop bar with private karaoke rooms, DJs and a rooftop area. For something more focused on music, Miscellania is a rooftop bar and late-night venue famous for live performances, club nights, and experimental music.

 

When Should You Book Student Accommodation in Melbourne

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

 

Why Book Student Accommodation in Melbourne 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 248 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.