Living in Brisbane as a Student: 2026 City Guide
Brisbane has a lot going for students: a warm climate, a relaxed pace of life, good universities and plenty of places to spend your time outside class. You can grab coffee with friends after a lecture, spend an afternoon by the river or head out to explore the city at the weekend.
Of course, living in a new city comes with a few things to figure out. You’ll need to choose a region that is appropriate for your university, find somewhere to live that fits your budget and get a feel for the day-to-day costs and transport.
A 2026 Brisbane city guide filled with the lowdown on what you’ll want to know before you settle in, from the best areas and universities to student accommodation, living costs, transport, food and things to do.
Table of Contents
Top Universities in Brisbane
Brisbane has many universities, so you will have plenty of choice depending on your course and campus preference.
Some of the popular universities in and around Brisbane are
- University of Queensland
- Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
- University of Southern Queensland, Griffith University
- Australian Catholic University
Your university can also impact where you choose to live. Before you book, find out how far your accommodation is from your campus and how long the journey will take you each day.
Top Suburbs to Reside in Brisbane
The right neighbourhood can make life as a student much easier. You might want to live near your university, but maybe you want a quieter area with good public transport.
Here are a few favoured areas to look for student accommodation in Brisbane.
1. Brisbane CBD
Brisbane CBD is good if you like everything close by. Shops, cafes, restaurants and public transport are all nearby, and you are located right in the heart of the city.
The major drawback is price. It’s a question of how it fits your budget, as you may find accommodation more expensive in the CBD compared with areas further out.
2. Southern Brisbane
South Brisbane is well-suited to students, given its location and transport links. It is also close to South Bank, cafes, restaurants and a number of cultural attractions.
If it’s proximity to the city you want, but not necessarily in the CBD, South Brisbane might be worth a look.
3. West End
Many cafes, restaurants, markets and independent shops give the West End a relaxed neighbourhood vibe. You’re also close to the Brisbane River and South Brisbane.
It could be a good match if you want a lively area with lots going on but still want somewhere that feels like a real neighbourhood.
4. St. Lucia
St Lucia is especially handy for students attending The University of Queensland’s St Lucia campus. The area has a good student population and a number of shops and general amenities close by.
Living near campus can also save you time and money on your daily commute.
5. Kelvin Grove
Kelvin Grove is another student friendly area, particularly if you are studying at the Kelvin Grove campus of Queensland University of Technology.
Here you will join a lively student community with public transport links to other areas of Brisbane.
Student Housing in Brisbane
Once you have a rough idea of where you want to live, you’ll need to choose the type of accommodation that is right for you.
Private accommodation (student)
Purpose built student accommodation is built with student life in mind. Depending on the property you may have shared kitchens, study areas, social spaces, laundry facilities and other amenities.
It can also be a handy option if you are new to Brisbane and want to meet other students.
Shared flat
If you share a house or flat, you can split the rent and some of the household costs with other students. You will usually have your own bedroom but share other areas like the kitchen and living room.
This can be good for you if you like living with other people and want to keep your accommodation costs low
Private rental
A private apartment or house gives you more control over your space. At the same time, you’ll need to think about rent, utilities, furniture and other household costs.
Always check what is included in the rent before signing a lease.
Cost of Living in Brisbane
Your weekly spending will depend on your accommodation, lifestyle and how often you eat out or travel around the city.
Your main expenses are likely to include:
Expense | What to consider |
Rent | Usually one of your biggest regular expenses |
Groceries | Depends on what you eat and where you shop |
Transport | Based on how often you travel |
Utilities | May include electricity, water and internet |
Eating out | Cafes and restaurants can add up quickly |
Entertainment | Set aside some money for outings and activities |
Mobile phone | Choose a plan based on your usage |
It’s worth working out your weekly budget before you arrive. Keep a little extra aside for unexpected expenses, too.
Getting Around Brisbane
Brisbane has buses, trains and ferries, so you can get around the city without relying on a car.
Your daily journey will depend on where you live and where you study. When comparing accommodation, check the route to your campus and how long it usually takes.
For shorter journeys, walking or cycling can also be practical, especially if you live close to your university.
Things to Do in Brisbane
University life is more than lectures and assignments. Brisbane gives you plenty of ways to take a break and spend time with friends.
South Bank
South Bank is one of the city’s popular spots for students. You can walk along the river, grab something to eat or simply spend an afternoon outside.
Brisbane River
The Brisbane River runs through the city and gives you plenty of places to walk, sit and enjoy the views.
City Botanic Gardens
Need a break from busy streets and screens? The City Botanic Gardens are an easy place to slow down and spend some time outdoors.
Mount Coot-tha
Mount Coot-tha is a good option when you want a change of scenery. You can get away from the busy city and enjoy Brisbane’s natural surroundings.
Markets and local events
Brisbane also has markets and events across different neighbourhoods. They’re a simple way to discover local food, shops and different parts of the city.
Places to Eat and Drink
You won’t have trouble finding places to eat in Brisbane. The city has everything from casual takeaway spots and student-friendly cafes to restaurants serving food from different parts of the world.
If you’re trying to keep your spending under control, look around your university for affordable food options. Cooking at home most days can also leave you with more room in your budget for the occasional meal out with friends.
West End and South Brisbane are particularly worth checking out if you enjoy trying different cafes and restaurants.
Brisbane Working & Studying
A lot of international students work part-time while studying. Hospitality, retail and other service-based roles may be an option, depending on the visa conditions and availability.
Check the work conditions on your visa before you accept a job. You’ll also want to make sure your work schedule fits in classes, assignments and rest.
A part-time job can also be a great way to meet people and get some work experience while you are studying.
Is Brisbane a Good Place to Study?
If you want a city with a laid-back atmosphere, warm weather, universities and plenty of outdoor spaces, Brisbane can be a good fit.
Where you decide to live will depend on what matters most to you. Living close to campus can make your routine easier, but a bit of distance can give you more housing options.
Before you settle on a place, compare the rent, check your commute and work out your regular weekly expenses. Once those basics are sorted, you can spend more time enjoying everything Brisbane has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brisbane a good place to live as a student?
Brisbane has several universities, public transport options, student-friendly neighbourhoods and plenty of places to eat, relax and socialise.
What salary do you need to live in Brisbane?
There isn’t one fixed amount that works for everyone. Your expenses will depend mainly on rent, transport, food and your lifestyle. Students should work out their weekly expenses to get a clearer idea of their budget.
What is the nicest part of Brisbane to live in?
South Brisbane, West End, St Lucia, Kelvin Grove and Brisbane CBD can all suit different lifestyles. Your university, budget and preferred surroundings can help you narrow down your options.
Which is the safest suburb of Brisbane?
Safety can vary between areas and over time. When choosing accommodation, look at the specific location, nearby transport and the surroundings rather than relying only on a general suburb label.
Is Brisbane expensive for students?
Accommodation is likely to be one of your biggest expenses, particularly in and around the city centre. Sharing accommodation and keeping track of your weekly spending can help you manage your budget.
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