Top 10 Best Suburbs in Gold Coast for Students

Welcome to the Gold Coast, where every suburb has its vibe, much like a playlist tailored to every mood and moment of your student life. If you're a Gen Z, navigating through the bustling streets and serene beaches, here you can feel like stepping into a scene from a vibrant summer blockbuster full of adventure and discoveries. This blog tunes into the top suburbs for students, echoing the diverse, dynamic spirit of a generation ready to make its mark. So, plug in your headphones, and let's hit play on a journey through the best suburbs in Gold Coast that promise to keep your student life as catchy and memorable as your favourite track.

Top 10 Best Suburbs in Gold Coast for Students

Choosing the right suburb in the Gold Coast can significantly enhance your student life, providing access to beautiful beaches, vibrant community events, and excellent educational facilities. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked leisure, bustling cafes, or quiet study nooks, the Gold Coast offers a variety of suburbs that cater to every student’s lifestyle. Here’s a look at the top 10 suburbs in Gold Coast, each offering unique benefits to students.

1. Surfers Paradise

Best Known For: Stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Tourist Attractions: Infinity Attraction, SkyPoint Observation Deck.
Average Rent for Students: AU$350 - AU$500 per week
Population: 23,689 residents
Nearest University: Bond University, Griffith University

Surfers Paradise, one of the most iconic suburbs in the Gold Coast, offers students a dynamic blend of entertainment and educational opportunities. This bustling area is renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant nightlife, perfect for students who thrive in a lively environment. Key attractions include the SkyPoint Observation Deck and the bustling Cavill Avenue, which are great for social outings between study sessions. Proximity to Griffith University via public transit enhances its appeal as a top choice for students exploring vibrant suburbs in Gold Coast. Surfers Paradise seamlessly blends beachfront relaxation with academic life, making it an exhilarating place for students.

2. Southport

Best Known For: CBD of the Gold Coast and educational facilities.
Tourist Attractions:  Broadwater Parklands, Australia Fair Shopping Centre.
Average Rent for Students: AU$320 - AU$450 per week
Population: 31,908 residents
Nearest University: Griffith University, Bond University

Southport, a central suburb in the Gold Coast, serves as a hub of academic and recreational activities, making it a prime location for students. As the CBD of the Gold Coast, Southport attracts students with its blend of urban amenities and educational institutions, including the nearby Griffith University. The suburb features Broadwater Parklands, a perfect spot for relaxation and study breaks, and Australia Fair Shopping Centre for all your essentials. Students can also utilise the Southport Branch Library for study sessions and grab a coffee at the popular Merlo Coffee Cafe. Southport stands out among the suburbs in Gold Coast for its practicality and convenience, offering everything from libraries to cafes, all conducive to a student's lifestyle in the bustling suburbs in Gold Coast.

3. Burleigh Heads

Best Known For: Surf breaks and a relaxed lifestyle.
Tourist Attractions: Burleigh Head National Park, David Fleay Wildlife Park.
Average Rent for Students: AU$400 - AU$550 per week
Population: 10,077 residents
Nearest University: Bond University

Burleigh Heads, nestled among the suburbs in the Gold Coast, offers a serene yet vibrant setting perfect for students. Known for its impressive surf breaks and laid-back atmosphere, it attracts those who appreciate a balance between academic focus and outdoor activities. Students can visit the Burleigh Head National Park for a refreshing escape from their studies, or enjoy local eats at the popular Paddock Bakery. With Bond University just a short drive away, Burleigh Heads integrates natural beauty with convenience, making it a favoured choice among the suburbs in Gold Coast for students seeking both academic excellence and a quality lifestyle. If you are thinking that Gold Coast is all about only a few things then this guide on things to do in Gold Coast might help you.

4. Broadbeach

Best Known For: Shopping centers and casinos.
Tourist Attractions: The Star Gold Coast, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.
Average Rent for Students: AU$380 - AU$530 per week
Population: 5,514 residents
Nearest University: Bond University

Broadbeach is a vibrant suburb in the Gold Coast, offering a mix of leisure and study opportunities ideal for students. Known for its beautiful beaches and extensive shopping venues like the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Broadbeach combines convenience with entertainment. Students can take advantage of the suburb's proximity to Bond University, making commutes easy. The Star Gold Coast also provides a touch of glamour and dining experiences, perfect for weekend outings. This blend of beachfront relaxation and urban amenities makes Broadbeach a standout choice among the suburbs in the Gold Coast for students who want a well-rounded lifestyle in the bustling suburbs in Gold Coast.

5. Varsity Lakes

Best Known For: Community markets and quiet environment.
Tourist Attractions: Lake Orr, Varsity Parade.
Average Rent for Students: AU$310 - AU$460 per week
Population: 14,366 residents
Nearest University: Bond University

Varsity Lakes is a serene suburb nestled in the Gold Coast, highly favoured by students for its proximity to educational institutions, particularly Bond University, which is located within the suburb itself. This area is ideal for those who seek a quieter, community-focused environment with plenty of green spaces like Lake Orr for relaxing or jogging. Varsity Lakes offers affordable living options and essential amenities, including cafes and small shops, catering well to students' needs. Its convenient location and the tranquil atmosphere make Varsity Lakes a preferred choice among the suburbs in the Gold Coast, perfectly blending academic accessibility with a peaceful residential setting in the suburbs in Gold Coast.

6. Robina

Best Known For: Modern facilities and shopping centres.
Tourist Attractions: Robina Town Centre, Cbus Super Stadium.
Average Rent for Students: AU$350 - AU$500 per week.
Population: 23,106 residents
Nearest University: Southern Cross University

Robina is a dynamic suburb in the Gold Coast, known for its contemporary amenities and strong academic connections, making it a preferred location for students. Home to Bond University, students in Robina benefit from short commutes and a variety of learning spaces, including the modern Robina Library. The suburb also boasts the Robina Town Centre, one of the largest shopping complexes in the area, providing endless retail, dining, and entertainment options. With its blend of modern residential areas, parks, and lakes, Robina offers a balanced lifestyle, standing out among the suburbs in the Gold Coast for students seeking convenience and community.

7. Mermaid Beach

Best Known For: High-end living and pristine beaches.
Tourist Attractions: Putt Putt Mermaid Beach, Hedges Avenue.
Average Rent for Students: AU$390 - AU$540 per week
Population: 6,533 residents
Nearest University: Bond University

Mermaid Beach celebrated for its laid-back charm and pristine beaches, is a favorite among students looking for a balance of study and seaside living in the Gold Coast. Just minutes away from Bond University, this suburb allows for an easy commute, making it practical for daily schedules. Mermaid Beach is not just about its stunning coastal views; it's also lined with trendy cafes and boutiques, particularly along Hedges Avenue, known locally as "Millionaire’s Row." The relaxed vibe and accessibility to amenities make Mermaid Beach a standout choice among the suburbs in the Gold Coast, perfect for students who enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere in the suburbs in the Gold Coast.

8. Coolangatta

Best Known For: Laid-back atmosphere and surfing spots.
Tourist Attractions: Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta Beach.
Average Rent for Students: AU$330 - AU$480 per week.
Population: 5,948 residents
Nearest University: Southern Cross University.

Coolangatta, positioned at the southern tip of the Gold Coast, offers students a unique blend of laid-back beach vibes and vibrant community life. Known for its world-class surf spots like Snapper Rocks, Coolangatta attracts students who appreciate outdoor activities alongside their studies. This suburb stands out for its relaxed atmosphere, yet it remains well-connected, with easy access to Southern Cross University's Gold Coast campus via public transport. Coolangatta's coastal charm and array of cafes and eateries along its beachfront make it an appealing choice among the suburbs in the Gold Coast for students seeking a serene yet engaging lifestyle in the suburbs in the Gold Coast.

9. Palm Beach

Best Known For: Beautiful coastline and eateries.
Tourist Attractions: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Tallebudgera Creek.
Average Rent for Students: AU$360 - AU$510 per week.
Population: 14,425 residents
Nearest University: Southern Cross University

Palm Beach, a coastal suburb in the Gold Coast, offers students a blend of leisure and academic convenience. Known for its long, beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, it provides a tranquil environment for study and relaxation. With Southern Cross University's Gold Coast campus just a short drive away, students can easily balance their academic commitments with a beachside lifestyle. Palm Beach is also popular for its vibrant cafe scene, including the well-loved Barefoot Barista, perfect for study sessions or catching up with friends. The suburb’s appealing mix of affordability and lifestyle amenities makes Palm Beach a top choice among the suburbs in the Gold Coast for students looking to enjoy the best of coastal living in the suburbs in the Gold Coast.

10. Helensvale

Best Known For: Family-friendly community and theme parks nearby.
Tourist Attractions: Warner Bros. Movie World, Wet'n'Wild Water World.
Average Rent for Students: AU$320 - AU$470 per week.
Population: 16,862 residents.
Nearest University: Griffith University

Helensvale stands out as a family-friendly and student-friendly suburb in the Gold Coast, offering a well-rounded lifestyle with convenient access to educational institutions. Located near Griffith University's Gold Coast campus, it allows students to enjoy a seamless commute and engage fully in their academic life. Helensvale is also known for its proximity to major theme parks like Warner Bros. Movie World and Wet'n'Wild, providing excellent recreational options. The suburb features essential amenities such as Westfield Helensvale for shopping and the Helensvale Library for study. This makes Helensvale a prime choice among the suburbs in the Gold Coast for students who value both academic and leisure activities in the bustling suburbs in the Gold Coast.

Student Accommodation in the Gold Coast

Finding the right accommodation is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enriching student experience in the Gold Coast, amber offers a variety of housing options tailored to meet the needs of students in this vibrant area. Here are some popular properties listed on Amberstudent that cater to various preferences and budgets:

1. Griffith University Village: Situated near Griffith University, this accommodation offers convenience and a vibrant community environment for students. It's perfect for those who want to be close to academic facilities and are looking for the best suburbs to live Gold Coast with reduced travel time.