13 Best Suburbs in Newcastle, Australia for Students in 2025

Newcastle, Australia, is one of the most liveable and student-friendly coastal cities in New South Wales. With over 37,000 students studying at the University of Newcastle, the city offers a unique blend of beach life, affordability, and strong connectivity. Choosing where to stay can define your entire student experience,  from cutting down commute times to enjoying weekend adventures. So, here’s a complete guide to the best suburbs in Newcastle that balance safety, convenience, and affordability for both domestic and international students.

Why Newcastle Is Perfect for Students?

Newcastle is renowned for its stunning beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and affordable student accommodation, which is often cheaper than in Sydney. The city’s well-connected Opal transport system makes commuting simple, and most suburbs are within a 10–20 minute radius of the University of Newcastle or the CBD. With thriving café culture, student hubs, and access to nature, Newcastle is ideal for both local and international students. 

Top 13 Best Suburbs in Newcastle for Students

Finding the best suburbs in Newcastle, Australia, can completely shape your student experience, from how long your commute takes to where you hang out after class. Below are the top 13 best suburbs in Newcastle for students, each offering a unique mix of affordability, convenience, and lifestyle, whether you want to live near the beach, the city, or the university.

1. Callaghan

Known for: The main campus of the University of Newcastle and its bushland surrounds
Why Students Love It: Walk to lectures, hit the Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre, or cycle the Fernleigh Track right from your door
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (on-site)
Pros: Student-centred, leafy environment, ultra-short commute
Safety Index: 7.6/10

Callaghan is easily one of the best suburbs in Newcastle for students - it houses the entire university campus, giving you access to libraries, cafeterias, and the campus gym without leaving the neighbourhood. The area features nine parks covering nearly 13% of its 1.4 km² area, offering plenty of green space for study breaks. With Warabrook Station a short ride away and local cafes catering to student life, it’s one of the safest areas in Newcastle for focused, restful living.

2. Jesmond

Known for: Jesmond Central Shopping & entertainment, café culture along Acorn Rd and Clayton Rd
Why Students Love It: Supermarkets, affordable eats, lively food scene and short bus ride to campus
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (2.5 km)
Pros: Multicultural vibe, excellent dining, great transport links
Safety Index: 7.2/10

Jesmond stands out amongst the best suburbs to live in Newcastle for students eager for convenience and social life. The suburb is home to the large Jesmond Central centre (formerly Stockland), with Woolworths, Aldi, and 60+ specialty stores. Cafés like Arlo and Cake Stories on Brentwood Avenue are student favourites. A strong bus network connects you to the University of Newcastle and the city centre within minutes, making Jesmond one of the best suburbs in Newcastle for student living.

3. Waratah

Known for: Waratah Village Shopping Centre, quiet streets, and strong train access
Why Students Love It: Easy access via Waratah Station, cafés for downtime, and suburban calm
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (4 km)
Pros: Safe neighbourhood, dependable transport, residential comfort
Safety Index: 8.1/10

Waratah is among the best areas in Newcastle for students who prefer a quieter home base. With the Waratah train station offering direct links to town and campus, commuting is quick and simple. Local favourites include breakfast spots on the main street and Waratah Village for groceries and essentials. The strong residential character and excellent transport make Waratah one of the safest areas in Newcastle to consider when moving off-campus.

4. New Lambton

Known for: Blackbutt Reserve and friendly residential charm
Why Students Love It: Outdoor lifestyle, cafés, and proximity to parks
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (5.5 km)
Pros: Peaceful, green, family-oriented
Safety Index: 8.0/10

New Lambton is one of the best suburbs of Newcastle for students seeking space and serenity. Locals love Blackbutt Reserve, where you can picnic or spot native koalas and wallabies between study sessions. The suburb also features popular cafés like Corner Lane Espresso and Josie Coffee for quiet study mornings. With easy bus routes via Lambton Rd and quick access to John Hunter Hospital, it’s one of the good suburbs in Newcastle offering both safety and greenery.

5. Hamilton

Known for: Beaumont Street dining strip and nightlife
Why Students Love It: Buzzing cafés, multicultural food, and music scene
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (6.5 km)
Pros: Urban feel, great nightlife, excellent train access
Safety Index: 7.4/10

Hamilton ranks among the best areas in Newcastle for students who crave culture and convenience. The iconic Beaumont Street is filled with restaurants like The Blind Monk and Raj’s Corner, plus weekend music at The Exchange Hotel. The Newcastle Interchange Station connects students directly to Callaghan and the beach. It’s the go-to suburb for those who want lively energy with short commutes, a true highlight among the best suburbs Newcastle has for student life.

6. Mayfield

Known for: Affordable living and strong community vibe
Why Students Love It: Close to campus and filled with budget-friendly eats
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (3 km)
Pros: Student-friendly, multicultural, practical
Safety Index: 7.3/10

Mayfield has quickly become one of the best suburbs to live in Newcastle for students who appreciate convenience and community. Grab your morning coffee at Equium Social or unwind at Mayfield Pool after classes. The area has supermarkets, the Mayfield Hotel, and local parks like Dangar Park, perfect for weekend cricket or picnics. With cycling routes to the university and frequent bus services on Maitland Rd, it’s one of the good suburbs in Newcastle for young students on the move.

7. Lambton

Known for: Lambton Park and small-town atmosphere
Why Students Love It: Calm streets, green open spaces, and a strong community
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (4.5 km)
Pros: Safe, social, walkable
Safety Index: 8.2/10

Lambton is one of the safest areas in Newcastle, loved for its community parks and local hospitality. Lambton Park hosts outdoor fitness areas and summer festivals, while Lambton Pool and Lizotte’s Live Music Venue bring the area to life. Students often gather at Café 63 or Dark Horse Espresso Bar to study or meet friends. With reliable bus routes to the university and nearby New Lambton Village, it’s perfect for those who prefer a suburban rhythm.

8. Merewether

Known for: Surf beaches, ocean baths, and relaxed coastal living
Why Students Love It: Beachfront lifestyle with active outdoor options
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (9.5 km)
Pros: Beach culture, social spots, great safety
Safety Index: 8.4/10

Merewether is one of the best suburbs Newcastle offers for students who love the sea. Home to Merewether Beach, the Ocean Baths, and the Surfhouse Café, it’s perfect for early swims or evening hangouts. Students can study by the coast or join surf clubs to meet locals. The Coastal Walk from Merewether to Bar Beach is a must-do for weekend relaxation. Combining seaside calm with safety, it’s easily one of the best areas in Newcastle for a balanced lifestyle.

9. Adamstown

Known for: Train station access and local sports clubs
Why Students Love It: Great connectivity and easy reach to beaches and the CBD
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (8 km)
Pros: Central, sporty, connected
Safety Index: 7.8/10

Adamstown stands among the good suburbs in Newcastle for students who rely on transport. The Adamstown Train Station provides direct routes to the CBD, and the Fernleigh Track, a 15 km cycling trail is perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Grab a smoothie at The Barn Café before catching a train or enjoying live sports at Adamstown Bowling Club. With its relaxed yet urban character, it’s one of the best suburbs to live in Newcastle for active students.

10. Broadmeadow

Known for: Central hub for events and transport
Why Students Love It: Easy commute, nightlife, and entertainment
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (7.5 km)
Pros: Walkable, lively, convenient
Safety Index: 7.5/10

Broadmeadow sits at Newcastle’s transport crossroads and is one of the best suburbs of Newcastle for students who want everything nearby. Catch concerts at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, attend games at McDonald Jones Stadium, or shop at Marketown Shopping Centre, just 10 minutes away. With the Broadmeadow Station connecting the campus and the coast, this suburb keeps students close to all the action, making it one of the best areas in Newcastle for social, connected living.

11. Cooks Hill

Known for: Art galleries, vintage stores, and Darby Street cafés
Why Students Love It: Creative vibe and proximity to beaches
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (6 km)
Pros: Trendy, walkable, community feel
Safety Index: 8.1/10

Cooks Hill is one of the best suburbs of Newcastle for artistic students and young professionals. Darby Street is the cultural core, packed with cafés like One Penny Black, Goldbergs Coffee House, and boutique shops. The Cooks Hill Gallery and The Lock-Up Art Space make it a creative haven. With Newcastle Beach just 10 minutes away and frequent buses to the CBD, it’s one of the best areas in Newcastle for stylish, urban living.

12. Charlestown

Known for: Major shopping precincts and suburban lifestyle
Why Students Love It: Access to Charlestown Square and nature reserves
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (11 km)
Pros: Quiet, convenient, well-equipped
Safety Index: 7.9/10

Charlestown is among the good suburbs in Newcastle for students who want suburban calm with city-level convenience. The Charlestown Square Mall features over 280 stores, eateries like The Coffee Emporium, and cinemas for post-study breaks. Glenrock State Conservation Area lies nearby,  ideal for hiking or mountain biking. With frequent buses to campus and nearby beaches, Charlestown offers balance and comfort in one of the best suburbs Newcastle has for student budgets..

13. The Junction

Known for: Coastal elegance and walkability
Why Students Love It: Boutique cafés, beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle
Nearby University: University of Newcastle (9 km)
Pros: Scenic, upscale, safe
Safety Index: 8.3/10

The Junction ranks among the safest areas in Newcastle, offering coastal charm and sophistication. Students love brunch at Core Espresso, The Autumn Rooms, or The Junction Hotel, followed by walks to Bar Beach or Empire Park. The suburb is dotted with small boutiques, health studios, and beach paths leading to Merewether Baths. Its blend of modern living, safety, and seaside accessibility makes it one of the best suburbs to live in Newcastle for those seeking a high-quality student lifestyle.

Student Accommodation In Newcastle, Australia

Finding student accommodation in Newcastle, Australia, is simple and stress-free with amber, your trusted platform for booking verified student housing. Newcastle offers a range of modern living spaces, from private studios to shared apartments, all designed to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Most student accommodation in Newcastle is located close to the University of Newcastle and TAFE campuses, making daily commutes easy and affordable. With amber, students can compare, shortlist, and book housing that comes fully furnished with amenities like study areas, laundry facilities, and social lounges. 

Newcastle isn’t just a beautiful coastal city, it’s one of Australia’s most student-friendly destinations. From the beachside calm of Merewether to the energetic lifestyle of Hamilton and the academic convenience of Callaghan, every suburb offers something unique for students to enjoy. With excellent public transport, affordable amenities, and a welcoming community, it’s no surprise that Newcastle is becoming a top choice for both local and international students. Whether you’re looking for study-focused peace or social city vibes, the best suburbs in Newcastle promise the perfect balance of comfort, safety, and opportunity to make your university life truly unforgettable.