Student Accommodation

Studying in Sydney is an exciting opportunity to live independently and experience this city’s vibrant culture. Here are some things you need to know about student accommodation in Sydney.

Types of Student Accommodation

  • Purpose-built student accommodation is usually located close to busy locations and provides amenities such as study areas, communal lounges, and 24-hour security.
  • Homestays involve living with a local family so you get to experience what life is like as a ‘local’ Sydney-sider.
  • Shared houses and room rentals are usually cost-effective way of living in Sydney as you share the living costs, as well as, household tasks your housemates.
  • Boarding houses offer a budget-friendly alternative accommodation option with their shared facilities and in-house options for cooked meals.
  • Hostels and short-term accommodation can offer a great option if in need of a place to stay when you first arrive in Sydney as they can allow you to explore the city to find more suitable living arrangements which meets your needs.

Where to Stay

Living close to SHEA can save you time and money on transportation, however, living near the city centre can be more expensive than the suburbs, so take the time to weigh up the pros and cons of each location before making a decision.

Your budget is also an important factor to consider when it comes to choosing the right student accommodation in Sydney. While purpose-built student accommodation can be more expensive than shared apartments or private rentals, these costs often include costs such as water and electricity in the rental price, while private rentals usually require you to pay these separately.

Whether you are looking to live near SHEA in and around Surry Hills which offers you the vibrant inner-city lifestyle of this Sydney suburb, or further afield, the following popular websites provide you with information about available student accommodation:

Weekly rent price guide for student accommodation in Sydney

When considering the cost of weekly rent for different types of accommodation, several factors come into play like location, size, amenities and condition of the property.

In Sydney, Australia, the average cost of weekly rent for student accommodation:

  • shared room in a student hostel or dormitory: from $150 and $300 per week
  • single room in a shared apartment or house: from $250 and $400 per week
  • studio apartment or one-bedroom unit: from $400 and $600 per week.

It is important to note that prices may fluctuate based on factors such as proximity to universities, public transport and amenities. Additionally, some accommodations may include utilities like electricity, water and internet in the rent, while others may require you to pay these separately.

Before committing to a rental agreement, it is advisable to carefully consider your budget and preferences to find the best student accommodation that suits your needs, as well as, your rights and obligations as a tenant.

It is important to complete the correct paperwork when renting accommodation (e.g. sign a lease or written agreement). For more information, see the Tenants’ Union of NSW.

Using an accommodation provider

Accommodation providers offer fully furnished rooms and amenities, and they may offer services like housekeeping, internet access and utilities included in the rent, making it easier for you to focus on your studies and settling into a new environment.

SHEA has connections with the following accommodation providers

Other accommodation providers include:

For More Detailed Information

For more detailed information about finding accommodation and living and studying in Sydney, go to Study Australia which has a very comprehensive information on student accommodation in Australia: