Student accommodation in Brisbane: which suburb should you live in?

Brisbane is a safe, welcoming city offering an ideal student lifestyle, with its vibrant culture, green spaces, and high-quality living standards in well-connected suburbs. With so many options available, you may be wondering, 'where is the best accommodation for students in Brisbane?'

There are many factors to consider when choosing where to live while studying. Proximity to university, accommodation costs, access to nearby health and medical services, safety and crime rates, and lifestyle preferences all come into play. It might seem a little overwhelming, but we’ve put together this nifty guide to simplify students’ decision-making process.

Here are some of the best places to live in Brisbane for students, broken down by suburb.

UQ St Lucia

St Lucia

Starting from the top, the Brisbane suburb of St Lucia is home to The University of Queensland’s (UQ) main campus. It's a beautiful, leafy riverside residential suburb with a large student population, primarily those attending UQ.  

The suburb has a quiet and peaceful environment, perfect for focusing on student life. There is a mix of rental apartments and share houses available, as well as on-campus student accommodation at UQ. 

Recommended student accommodation in St Lucia

The UQ St Lucia campus features 10 residential colleges and 2 more independent-style student residences. Some of the residential colleges at UQ offer places to students studying at other Brisbane universities. 

Other recommended student accommodation in St Lucia  

• Unilodge Macquarie: from $390 per person, per week for a shared apartment. 
• UniLodge The Manors: from $287 per person, per week for a shared apartment. 
• UniLodge on Twelfth Avenue: from $450 per person, per week for a studio in a 4-bedroom house. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $415  
• 2-bedroom apartment $592.50 

Public transport  

St Lucia offers very good public transport connectivity with frequent buses and ferry services. UQ St Lucia is home to 2 major bus stations and a CityCat ferry terminal, providing excellent connectivity to the central business district (CBD) and surrounding suburbs. The suburb also has many safe and scenic cycling paths. 

Local features and attractions in St Lucia 

The jewel in the crown of the suburb is UQ’s St Lucia campus, which has everything for students (and visitors) to live, relax and study. Enjoy the John Oxley River Walk, a scenic track for walking and jogging that bounds the campus. Explore UQ museums such as the UQ Art Museum, RD Milns Antiquities Museum and Anthropology Museum. Or unwind in nature at the UQ Lakes precinct, home to friendly local bird and wildlife characters. 

Outside the UQ campus, St Lucia is home to clusters of small local cafes, shops, and eateries with favourites such as Yonder Espresso and Saint and Co., which are located on Hawken Drive. Major shopping and entertainment precincts are located nearby in the neighbouring suburbs of Toowong and Indooroopilly. 

Toowong

North of St Lucia, Toowong is a busy and vibrant neighbourhood popular with students and young professionals. The suburb is a retail and dining hub with a major shopping centre and plenty of cafes, restaurants, and nightlife, offering a balance of convenience and lifestyle. Residents can also enjoy nature with popular outdoor recreation spots on their doorstep and scenic walking and cycling tracks along the river.  

Recommended student accommodation  

• Scape Toowong: from $359 per person, per week for a shared twin apartment. 
• Raymont Residential College: from $620 per person, per week for a single room with meals included. 
• UniLodge Toowong: from $299 per person, per week for a shared twin studio apartment. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $500  
• 2-bedroom apartment $630 

Public transport  

Toowong offers excellent public transport connectivity with a train station, multiple bus routes and CityCat ferry services. However, traffic can be busy along the major roadway Coronation Drive. Locals warn that finding on-street parking can be challenging, so consider whether a car is needed if choosing to live here. 

Mt Coot-tha lookout. Image: Jesse Smith, courtesy of Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

Local features and attractions in Toowong 

Those who live an active lifestyle or who are avid foodies will never find a shortage of things to do in Toowong. Outdoor enthusiasts can hit the hiking trails at Mount Coot-tha and explore the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. Afterwards, stop for brunch and coffee and choose from a mix of top-rated cafes and casual eateries, including local favourites Riser and La Grava. 

Find all your shopping and personal essentials at Toowong Village shopping centre. For nightlife and entertainment, visit the famed Regatta Hotel or Royal Exchange Hotel, or catch a movie at Blue Room Cinebar.  

When you want to stretch your legs, take advantage of Toowong’s riverside location, which offers beautiful views and recreational opportunities.

Kelvin Grove

Located in Brisbane’s inner north, Kelvin Grove is home to one of Queensland University of Technology’s (QUT) campuses and offers a welcoming community. Close to the CBD but still a residential suburb, students can enjoy city life while still being in a quieter neighbourhood.  

Recommended student accommodation  

• IGLU Kelvin Grove: from $349 per person, per week for a single room in a 5-bedroom shared apartment. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $510  
• 2-bedroom apartment $645 

Public transport  

Kelvin Grove has excellent bus connections to Brisbane’s CBD. If travelling to UQ, you can catch the Brisbane Metro route M2 (which replaced Route 66) from QUT Kelvin Grove Station to UQ Lakes Station. 

Local features and attractions  

Kelvin Grove Urban Village is a university precinct hub of affordable eateries, shops and services set among QUT’s campus. It is designed with everything in mind for student living. Every Saturday, The Village hosts a market offering fresh produce, food stalls, handmade goods and live entertainment.  

On the border of Kelvin Grove is 64-hectare nature and recreational precinct called Victoria Park/Barrambin. It features a bistro and function centre, a driving range, putt-putt golf, picnic areas, and walking and cycling tracks. 

South Bank

South Bank is a highly desirable location within walking distance of both Brisbane City and the famed South Bank Parklands. It’s popular among students, young professionals and energised retirees. If you want atmosphere in a central location, South Bank has it a- plenty. The lively entertainment and lifestyle precinct features several student accommodation options and luxury apartments. 

Recommended student accommodation  

• Scape South Bank: from $449 per person, per week for a single room in a shared 5-bedroom apartment. 
• Scape Tribune: from $279 per person, per week for a shared twin apartment. 
• UniLodge South Bank: from $269 per person, per week for a shared twin studio apartment. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $580  
• 2-bedroom apartment $780  

Public transport  

South Bank has excellent public transport connectivity with a train station, major busway station, CityCat, and free KittyCat ferry services. Going on foot or by bicycle is a great option, with scenic and well-lit pathways throughout the area. 

Local features and attractions  

Enjoy the lush expanse of South Bank Parklands or take a dip in Streets Beach tropical man-made lagoon. If you want to take in some culture (in air-conditioned comfort) you can spend days wandering the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) or Queensland Museum. The nearby  State Library of Queensland offers the perfect spot to study, where you can book meeting rooms, riverside window bays and digital media equipment and computers.

If theatre is your thing, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) hosts major live productions, while the Queensland Theatre Company offers a more indie experience. If you are short on funds, there is always something happening for free in South Bank, and all the venues listed offer student discounts for shows and exhibitions (though general entry to the art galleries, museum and State Library is free). We must mention that South Bank is home to the cheapest cinema in Brisbane, with movies from only $9 for students. 

Those who love an active lifestyle will appreciate the bike paths, jogging tracks, and riverside walks that provide plenty of opportunities for exercise.  

For shopping, the South Bank Lifestyle Markets offer food, crafts, and unique finds every weekend, and you are within walking distance to the CBD for all other essentials. The suburb is also close to Mater Hospital Brisbane and Queensland Children’s Hospital for peace of mind.  

Brisbane City

Brisbane City is a dynamic hub and an excellent central location for students, professionals, and visitors. It's the retail and business heart of the city, offering the perfect mix of convenience, culture, and lifestyle.  

This Brisbane suburb is an accessible metropolis of modern and heritage buildings with lush green escapes to enjoy. Students from around the world reside here, as there's a mix of private colleges and language schools. The CBD also offers surprisingly affordable options for 1-bedroom apartment living. 

Recommended student accommodation  

• Iglu Brisbane City: from $409 per person, per week for a single bedroom with a shared bathroom. 
• Student One Adelaide Street: from $229 per person, per week for a shared bunk studio room. 
• Student One Elizabeth Street: from $369 per person, per week for a single room in a shared 6-bedroom apartment. 
• Student One Wharf Street: from $369 per person, per week for a single room in a shared 5-bedroom apartment. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $550  
• 2-bedroom apartment $780 

Public transport  

There's no need to own a car if you live in Brisbane City, as it has excellent public transport connectivity. There are 2 major train transit hubs at Roma Street and Brisbane Central Train Stations, as well as buses and ferry services. If you are looking for free public transport in Brisbane, you can catch the City Loop and Spring Hill Loop buses, and CityHopper ferry services to get around. 

Local features and attractions  

The iconic Queen Street Mall retail precinct offers a mix of high-end retail, boutiques, and major brands. Enjoy local art exhibitions and a touch of history at the Museum of Brisbane in the heritage-listed Brisbane City Hall in King George Square. Revel in endless cafe, bar and dining options ranging from bargain to bougie. Explore vibrant laneways with local hidden gems to drink, dine and hang out.  

Escape to the City Botanic Gardens and Roma Street Parkland to soak up some nature among the urban landscape. For nightlife, visit Eagle Street Pier precinct for stylish bars and diverse dining options set to a sparkling river backdrop. Take advantage of the city’s calendar of live entertainment and events – many of which are free.  

Lifestyle and entertainment aside, living in the CBD means easy access to all other essential services such as supermarkets, gyms and health and medical facilities. 

West End and Highgate Hill

West End and Highgate Hill are popular with students, young professionals and creatives. A bustling hub on the city fringe, this diverse precinct is rich with history, culture, and a strong sense of community. West End and Highgate Hill have something for every lifestyle, from affordable share houses and charming character homes to art deco and luxury apartments, and more.  

Recommended student accommodation  

• Scape Merivale Street: from $289 per person, per week for a shared twin apartment. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $580  
• 2-bedroom apartment $780 

Public transport  

This area has very good public transport connectivity, with both bus and ferry services. Buses can be very busy during peak travel times and West End is somewhat of a bottleneck bound by the river on most sides. 

West End Markets. Image courtesy of Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

Local features and attractions  

Known as Brisbane’s creative heart, West End and Highgate Hill boast artistic, alternative culture, eclectic boutiques, vibrant cafes, and lively nightlife. 

Every Saturday, locals flock to Brisbane’s most famous market, West End Markets at Davies Park. Diverse dining options cater to every budget with casual cafes, craft breweries and on-trend restaurants. Shopping highlights range from second-hand and handmade goods to luxury retail and boho boutiques. Orleigh Park, on the river, is a favourite breezy weekend hangout for friends and families alike. 

Just walking around exploring the streets of West End is a vibe in itself. Here, you may come across live music, street performers, or pop-up exhibitions. This welcoming and multicultural community hosts events that foster a sense of connection among residents. Favourites include Australia’s longest-running Greek Festival, Paniyiri, Musgrave Park Family Fun Day, and Laura Street Festival. 

Woolloongabba

Woolloongabba is an inner southern suburb of Brisbane with nods to Brisbane’s unique industrial history. This precinct features preserved Queensland heritage buildings, warehouses, and brand-new modern apartments. Foodies and coffee lovers will appreciate the unassuming ethnic grocery stores, coffee roasteries and breweries nestled among the industrial streets. There are many faces to this happening yet unpretentious suburb.  

Recommended student accommodation  

• UniLodge Park Central: from $299 per person, per week for a single bedroom in a shared 6-bedroom apartment. 
• Scape Regent Street: from $289 per person, per week for a shared twin bunk apartment. 

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $520  
• 2-bedroom apartment $700  

Public transport  

The Woolloongabba busway station provides good connections with other Brisbane suburbs. Construction and development is underway for a new underground railway station that will provide high-frequency services to Brisbane’s CBD. 

"The Gabba", Woolloongabba Stadium. Image: Richard Greenwood, courtesy of Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

Local features and attractions  

Sports lovers will appreciate “The Gabba”, Woolloongabba's vast cricket stadium, which hosts Aussie Rules football, international cricket matches and other major events. Another highlight is the iconic Brisbane German Club, where you can soak up the lively Bavarian atmosphere and enjoy the famed (or infamous) pork knuckle and a generous selection of German beers. 

Wander through the Woolloongabba Antiques Precinct, where you can shop for one-of-a-kind homewares by day and try some of Brisbane's most eclectic dining and drinking spots by night. Coffee lovers will rejoice in a selection of cafes and roasteries such as Blue Sky Coffee and All Press where all the coffee magic happens onsite, and you can buy supplies to brew the perfect cup at home. 

For added reassurance, should urgent medical care be needed, Woolloongabba is close to 3 major Brisbane hospitals: Mater Hospital, Queensland Children's Hospital and  Princess Alexandra Hospital. This is also very convenient for students looking to undertake health placements during their studies.

Herston

Herston is a leafy inner northern suburb that is the heart of Brisbane’s medical and health precinct. It's the ideal choice for those who study or work at the local hospital and health facilities. This quiet yet convenient suburb is a short distance from Fortitude Valley, where you can dance the night away, and the Brisbane Showgrounds.  

Recommended student accommodation  

• UniLodge Herston: from $189 per person, per week for a shared twin bunk room with a shared bathroom. Please note this property is not air-conditioned.

Average weekly private rental costs 

• 1 bedroom apartment $560  
• 2-bedroom apartment $700  

Public transport  

Herston has very good public transport connectivity, with a busway station and 2 train stations within walking distance.

Local features and attractions  

The Herston Health Precinct is home to Queensland’s largest hospital, the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, which is the beating heart of the suburb.  

Entertainment is on your doorstep, with Brisbane Showgrounds and Fortitude Valley a short distance away. The Showgrounds host a variety of events, including major music festivals and Queensland's largest annual event, the Ekka. Every Friday and Saturday night, you can count on a lively party atmosphere in the Valley, Brisbane’s clubbing district. 

Herston also borders Victoria Park – a sprawling urban retreat that features putt-putt golf and a driving range, a bistro, walking trails and picnic areas.  

Despite being close to the action, Herston maintains a peaceful, suburban feel, perfect for focused study or relaxation. 

Last thoughts

So, there you have our top recommendations for the best places to live in Brisbane for students. Where you choose is up to you – so consider all aspects such as your budget, lifestyle preferences, proximity to study, and the availability of the type of accommodation you are interested in.

Why we love student accommodation 

Purpose-built student accommodation is designed with students’ needs in mind. It has everything a student needs to settle in and study. 

• Safe and secure with 24/7 staff, access cards and entry detection features. Properties are located in well-lit, high-traffic areas for added peace of mind. 
• No extra set-up admin and unexpected costs. Utilities such as internet and electricity are included in the fees. 
• An environment that nurtures students. Utilise dedicated study spaces and quiet areas. 
• Friends included. Students will meet like-minded peers from around the world, and the properties often facilitate social events and activities. 
• Professional management. Student accommodation has 24/7 staff onsite to respond to questions or address maintenance requests promptly. 
• Avoid the competition in the rental market. These properties are exclusively for students, so there is no vying with families or professionals when finding a place to live.
• Properties are in the best places to live in Brisbane for young adults. Students will have everything they need to thrive at their fingertips.