A budget-friendly guide to the most affordable places to study, live, and thrive in Australia as an international student!
Planning to study in Australia but worried about the cost? You’re not the only one. While Australia offers world-class education and an incredible lifestyle, living costs can seem a bit high. But here’s the secret smart international students know: not all Australian cities will drain your savings account.
There are some Australian cities that are very affordable compared to others. In fact, choosing the cheapest city to study in Australia could save you AUD $8,000-$12,000 annually compared to Sydney or Melbourne. That is enough for return flights home, exciting travel adventures, or a healthy emergency fund.
Whether you’re a budget-conscious student from Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Nepal, or anywhere else in the world, this comprehensive 2026 guide reveals exactly where your costs will be less in Australia.
Why Cost Matters When Choosing Your Study Destination
Living expenses represent a massive chunk of your Australian education investment. According to Australian government requirements, international students must demonstrate they can access AUD $29,710 per year for living costs. However, the reality varies dramatically by location. What costs AUD $40,000 annually in Sydney might only require AUD $28,000 in Adelaide or Hobart.
Smart city selection means:
- More financial breathing room during your studies
- Reduced need for part-time work hours, allowing focus on academics
- Extra funds for travel and experiences across Australia
- Lower stress about making rent and covering bills
- Better savings to take home after graduation
Let’s explore the cheapest places to live in Australia that students can choose in 2026, backed by real numbers, insider tips, and practical advice.
The 5 Most Affordable Australian Cities for International Students
1. Hobart, Tasmania
Monthly Living Cost: AUD $1,500-$2,000
Hobart consistently ranks as the cheapest Australian city for students, with overall living costs ranging from just AUD $20,276 per year. This is significantly below the government’s minimum requirement and Darwin (Australia’s most expensive city).
Why Hobart is the Cheapest City to Study in Australia
Accommodation
Weekly rent averages around AUD $218 for shared accommodation, making it dramatically cheaper than Sydney’s AUD $283 per week. You’ll find beautiful housing options with stunning harbour views at prices that would barely rent a closet in Melbourne.
What You’ll Pay:
- Shared accommodation: AUD $150-$250 per week
- Private studio: AUD $280-$400 per week
- On-campus housing: AUD $200-$350 per week
- Total monthly housing: AUD $650-$1,100
Universities
The University of Tasmania is consistently rated among the top ten universities in Australia and has a large population of international students, with more than one in five students being international.
Student Life
While Hobart might not have the bustling nightlife of Sydney, it compensates with breathtaking natural beauty, a thriving arts scene, and Tasmania’s famous food culture. The compact city layout means everything is walkable, saving on transport costs. Winter can be chilly, so budget for warm clothing.
Part-Time Work
The smaller job market means competition exists, but hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors actively hire students, especially during summer tourism peaks.
Average wages: AUD $22-$28 per hour.
2. Adelaide, South Australia
Monthly Living Cost: AUD $1,400-$2,000
Adelaide currently offers the lowest student rent among major Australian cities, making it a popular choice for affordability. This vibrant capital city is the perfect balance between urban amenities and budget-friendly living.
Why Adelaide Stands Out as a Low-Cost Australian City:
Accommodation
Rent in Adelaide is 47% lower than in Sydney, 8% lower than in Melbourne, and 20% lower than in Perth. It is a staggering difference that immediately impacts your budget.
What You’ll Pay:
- Shared house/apartment: AUD $150-$300 per week
- Private room in shared accommodation: AUD $200-$350 per week
- Studio apartment: AUD $300-$450 per week
- Student accommodation (all-inclusive): AUD $250-$400 per week
- Total monthly housing: AUD $600-$1,600
Universities
- University of Adelaide (ranked 82nd globally in QS 2025)
- University of South Australia
- Flinders University
All three institutions offer excellent academic programs with strong international student support services and scholarships.
Student Life
Adelaide is known as Australia’s food capital, offering incredible dining experiences without the premium prices of larger cities. The city features numerous festivals throughout the year, beautiful beaches within 20 minutes, and some famous landscapes nearby.
Transport Savings
Adelaide’s integrated tram, bus, and train network offers generous student concessions. A student MetroCard costs approximately AUD $45-$60 monthly for unlimited travel, far less than in Sydney or Melbourne.
Part-Time Work
Strong healthcare, education, hospitality, and retail sectors provide ample student employment. The lower cost of living means your part-time earnings stretch further.
3. Gold Coast, Queensland
Monthly Living Cost: AUD $1,500-$2,100
The Gold Coast is the cheapest city in Australia for students, thanks to its low cost of living and affordable accommodation options. Despite being a famous tourist destination, it offers surprisingly budget-friendly student living.
Why the Gold Coast is Among the Cheapest Places to Live in Australia
Accommodation
- Shared housing: AUD $180-$320 per week
- Student apartments: AUD $250-$400 per week (often includes utilities)
- Homestay: AUD $280-$350 per week (includes meals)
- Private studio: AUD $350-$500 per week
- Total monthly housing: AUD $720-$1,600
Universities
- Griffith University (excellent for business, health sciences, and hospitality)
- Bond University (private, premium programs)
- Southern Cross University
Student Life
Imagine studying with world-famous beaches as your backyard. The Gold Coast offers 70 kilometres of pristine coastline, incredible weather year-round (300+ sunny days), and a relaxed lifestyle that reduces stress. Theme parks, nightlife, and outdoor activities are everywhere.
The Cost-Lifestyle Balance
While not the absolute cheapest, Gold Coast delivers exceptional value when you factor in the lifestyle benefits. Free beaches, outdoor fitness options, and community events mean you can enjoy an amazing life without spending much.
Part-Time Work
Tourism, hospitality, retail, and entertainment industries provide abundant student jobs, especially during peak seasons (December-January and school holidays). Many students work in cafes, restaurants, theme parks, and retail shops, earning AUD $23-$30 per hour.
4. Perth, Western Australia
Monthly Living Cost: AUD $1,500-$2,200
Perth is often overlooked, but it offers affordable living, growing job sectors, and quality degrees. As one of the low-cost Australian cities, Perth provides excellent value with a high quality of life.
Why Perth Deserves Your Consideration
Accommodation
- Shared accommodation: AUD $180-$300 per week
- Private room: AUD $250-$380 per week
- Studio apartment: AUD $350-$500 per week
- Purpose-built student accommodation: AUD $240-$420 per week
- Total monthly housing: AUD $720-$1,680
Universities
- University of Western Australia (ranked among Australia’s top universities)
- Curtin University (strong in business, engineering, and health)
- Murdoch University (known for veterinary science and sustainability)
Student Life
Perth offers stunning beaches, Kings Park (one of the world’s largest inner-city parks), vibrant cultural precincts, and a growing food scene. The sunny Mediterranean climate means outdoor living year-round. While geographically isolated, Perth’s quality of life rivals any other Australian city.
Transport
Student concession cards make public transport very affordable. Many students cycle in Perth’s bike-friendly environment, cutting transport costs to nearly zero.
Part-Time Work
Western Australia’s mining boom creates regular employment in hospitality, retail, and services. Mining-related industries occasionally offer lucrative casual work for students during study breaks.
Bonus
Perth qualifies as a regional area for visa purposes, offering extra post-study work rights and permanent residency points, which is a significant advantage for students planning to stay in Australia long-term.
5. Brisbane, Queensland
Monthly Living Cost: AUD $1,600-$2,200
Brisbane strikes a great balance between affordability and lifestyle, offering major city amenities without Sydney or Melbourne price tags. As Australia’s third-largest city, it provides comprehensive student experiences at manageable costs.
Why Brisbane is a Smart Choice
Accommodation
- Shared house: AUD $180-$320 per week
- Student accommodation: AUD $250-$400 per week
- Private room: AUD $250-$380 per week
- Studio apartment: AUD $350-$550 per week
- Total monthly housing: AUD $720-$1,600
Universities
- University of Queensland (ranked 40th globally, member of prestigious Group of Eight)
- Queensland University of Technology (QUT) (strong in business, engineering, creative industries)
- Griffith University
Student Life
Brisbane offers a subtropical climate, extensive green spaces including the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, vibrant cultural scenes, excellent music venues, and easy access to both beaches and hinterland rainforests. The city’s laid-back vibe creates a welcoming environment for international students.
Transport
Brisbane’s integrated network of buses, trains, and iconic CityCat ferries makes getting around affordable and enjoyable. Student Go Cards provide significant discounts, approximately AUD $15-$30 weekly for typical student travel.
Part-Time Work
As Queensland’s capital and economic hub, Brisbane offers diverse employment across retail, hospitality, administration, tutoring, and professional services. The strong economy means consistent job availability for you.
Complete Monthly Budget Breakdown by City
Here’s what international students actually spend monthly in the cheapest places to live in Australia:
| Expenses Category | Hobart | Adelaide | Gold Coast / Queensland | Perth | Brisbane |
| Rent (shared) | $650-$1,100 | $600-$1,200 | $720-$1,280 | $720-$1,200 | $720-$1,280 |
| Groceries | $240-$400 | $240-$400 | $280-$450 | $280-$450 | $300-$500 |
| Transport | $40-$80 | $45-$90 | $60-$120 | $60-$100 | $60-$130 |
| Utilities (if not included) | $80-$140 | $100-$180 | $100-$160 | $100-$180 | $120-$200 |
| Internet/Phone | $40-$80 | $50-$90 | $50-$90 | $60-$100 | $60-$100 |
| Entertainment/Social | $100-$250 | 150-$300 | $200-$400 | 150-$350 | $200-$400 |
| Study Materials | $50-$150 | $50-$150 | $50-$150 | $50-$150 | $50-$150 |
| Total Monthly | $1,200-$2,200 | $1,235-$2,410 | $1,460-$2,650 | $1,420-$2,530 | $1,510-$2,760 |
Money-Saving Strategies for Australian Student Life
- Accommodation Hacks
Share, Share, Share: Living with 2-4 housemates can reduce your rent by 40-60% compared to living alone. Use platforms like Flatmates.com.au, Facebook groups, or university housing portals.
Location Strategy: Living 20-30 minutes from campus in outer suburbs often cuts rent by AUD $100-$200 weekly, while transport costs only increase by AUD $20-$40 weekly. This leads to a net saving of AUD $80-$180 weekly (AUD $4,000-$9,000 annually).
Negotiate Longer Leases: Some landlords offer discounts for 12-month commitments versus 6-month leases.
- Food Budget Optimization
Cook in Bulk: Meal prepping saves 50-70% compared to buying lunch daily. An AUD $80 weekly grocery shop can produce 14-21 meals.
Shop Smart:
- ALDI for the cheapest basics
- Coles/Woolworths for weekly specials
- Asian grocery stores for rice, noodles, spices at a fraction of supermarket prices
- Night-time markdowns at supermarkets (typically 7-9 PM)
Free Food Opportunities: Many universities host free BBQs, cultural food events, and orientation activities with meals included. You can look for them and cut down your food costs more!
- Transport Savings
Student Concession Cards: Apply for these immediately upon arrival. They reduce transport costs by 40-50%.
Cycling: Invest AUD $150-$300 in a reliable used bike and save AUD $50-$120 monthly on transport while staying fit. This is the best option for transport since Australian roads are great for cycling.
Walking: In compact cities like Adelaide and Hobart, walking is genuinely viable and costs nothing.
- Part-Time Work Income
International students can work 24 hours per week during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks. Strategic employment can generate:
- AUD $800-$1,500 monthly during semester (20-24 hours per week at AUD $23-$30/hour)
- AUD $2,000-$3,500 monthly during breaks (full-time work)
Popular student jobs include barista, waitstaff, retail sales, tutoring, delivery driving, and administrative work.
- Free and Low-Cost Entertainment
Free Activities
- All beaches across Australia
- National parks and hiking trails
- University sports facilities (included in student fees)
- Free cultural festivals and community events
- University clubs and societies (AUD $5-$20 annual membership)
- Public libraries, galleries, and museums (many with free admission)
Student Discounts: Always ask if students receive discounts on cinema tickets, gym memberships, restaurants, clothing stores, and entertainment venues.
Typical savings: 10-30%.
Practical Action Steps
Before Arriving
- Research Accommodation (3-6 months before): Join city-specific Facebook groups, explore Flatmates.com.au, contact university housing services, and shortlist 5-10 properties.
- Calculate Your Personal Budget: Use the tables above, add your specific needs, and include extra AUD $2,000-$3,000 for setup costs.
- Arrange Initial Accommodation: Book the first 2-4 weeks in student accommodation, hostel, or Airbnb while you search for permanent housing.
Upon Arrival
- First Week Priorities:
- Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) immediately
- Get a student concession card for transport
- Open an Australian bank account
- Buy an Australian SIM card (AUD $15-$40 monthly)
- Register with university services
- Settle In Smartly
- Visit ALDI, Kmart, and secondhand stores for essentials
- Explore free university orientation activities for free food and information
- Join student clubs to meet people and find cost-saving tips
- Apply for part-time jobs (prepare a resume and references before arriving)
Choosing the cheapest city to study in Australia doesn’t mean compromising on education quality or life experiences. It means being strategic about where your money goes. The difference? You’ll graduate with less debt, less stress, and more savings to launch your career.
By selecting affordable cities, you’re investing in what truly matters: quality education, meaningful experiences, and financial security. Your Australian education dream is within reach. Choose wisely, budget smartly, and make the most of your investment in yourself.
If you are interested in or planning to study in Australia, contact AGP. We provide Free counselling and guidance to make sure your Australian study dream becomes a reality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Which is the cheapest city to study in Australia?
Adelaide and Hobart are frequently cited as the cheapest cities to study in Australia due to lower rent and living costs.
What are the cheapest places to live in Australia that students can afford?
Affordable student-friendly places include Adelaide, Hobart, Newcastle, and some suburbs of Brisbane and Perth.
How much should a student budget per month?
In low-cost Australian cities, expect around AUD 1,200–2,000/month for basic living (shared housing, food, transport).
Are there low-cost Australian cities with good universities?
Yes – Adelaide, Hobart, Brisbane, and Perth host reputable universities while being more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne.
Where can I compare living costs across Australian cities?
Use the official Study Australia Cost of Living Calculator and university pages for city-specific estimates.