Wagga Wagga, a regional city in New South Wales, is home to approximately 68,951 residents. Around 7.4% of the population were aged 20-24, a core student age group. With major educational institutions such as Charles Sturt University and TAFE NSW Wagga Wagga on its doorstep, Wagga offers students a unique lifestyle, combining affordability, community, and high quality of living. Choosing the right suburb can elevate your student experience, from shorter commutes and buzzing cafés to green spaces and rail links. To help you settle in right, we’ve gathered the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga that deliver comfort, convenience, and student-friendly living.
Top 10 Best Suburbs in Wagga Wagga for Students
Choosing the right neighbourhood can make your time in Wagga Wagga truly memorable. Whether you enjoy a lively city vibe, peaceful lakeside walks, or being surrounded by nature, each suburb here brings its own student-friendly charm. From trendy cafés and social hangouts to easy commutes and affordable living, these are the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga that perfectly balance comfort, convenience, and a fun university lifestyle.
1. Turvey Park
Known for: Its beautiful old buildings, the Wagga Botanic Gardens, and being super close to the city.
Why Students Love It: You can walk everywhere, there are lots of cool cafés, and all the essentials are nearby.
Nearby Campus: TAFE NSW Wagga (2.4 km) | CSU (8 km)
Pros: Central, really pretty, and has great stuff to do.
Safety Index: 8.3 / 10
Students Living Here: ~950 CSU & TAFE students
Turvey Park stands out as one of the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga for students who love a mix of calm and social energy. The area surrounds Collins Park and the iconic Wagga Wagga Botanic Gardens, giving students relaxing outdoor study spots. Affordable cafés like Trail Street Coffee Shop, Nest, and The Borough Wagga are favourites for brunch and assignment-writing days. The South City Shopping Centre has essentials like Woolworths, takeaway joints, and a chemist, all walkable. Students can easily reach the CBD by bike or frequent Busabout routes. With strong community vibes and beautiful leafy streets, Turvey Park is considered one of the best neighbourhoods in Wagga Wagga for a friendly and comfortable student lifestyle.
2. Lake Albert
Known for: That awesome lakeside lifestyle and tons of outdoor activities.
Why Students Love It: Fresh air, a quiet atmosphere, and great paths for running and cycling.
Nearby Campus: CSU (11 km | 15 min drive)
Pros: Scenic, peaceful, and has a close-knit community.
Safety Index: 8.7 / 10
Students Living Here: ~780
If you’re a student who loves morning walks, open skies, and peaceful study breaks, Lake Albert is one of the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga to live in. Students often gather at Apex Park, Lake Albert Foreshore, and Wagga Boat Club for paddleboarding, jogging, or sunset picnics after class. The Lake Village Shopping Centre offers groceries and casual dining spots like Thrive Café. Weekend routines include grabbing a takeaway and hanging out by the water, the ultimate stress relief. Although a bit further out, it’s one of the safest suburbs in Wagga Wagga and perfect for those who want nature, community events, and a refreshing balance to university life.
3. Kooringal
Known for: Affordable living and amazing shopping convenience.
Why Students Love It: You can live comfortably without even needing a car!
Nearby Campus: CSU (7 km) | TAFE NSW (4 km)
Pros: Budget-friendly, great transport, and all your essentials are close.
Safety Index: 7.9 / 10
Students Living Here: ~1,100
Kooringal is one of the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga for students seeking low-cost, comfortable living.. Kooringal Mall has everything: Coles, cafés, sushi, a pharmacy, and even a gym, meaning minimal travel for errands. It’s a go-to for movie nights at Kooringal Hotel or grabbing quick bites between lectures. The area is packed with residential streets that feel social and safe, and students love unwinding at Henley Park or enjoying views from the higher hills. With great public transport and cheap takeaway options, Kooringal feels like a mini-city hub ideal for student life.
4. Estella
Known for: Being the campus suburb!
Why Students Love It: CSU is literally right next door – talk about ultimate convenience!
Nearby Campus: Charles Sturt University (1 km)
Pros: Modern, quiet, super student-friendly, and safe.
Safety Index: 8.5 / 10
Students Living Here: ~1,600 (highest student share in Wagga)
Estella is famous among students as one of the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga, simply because everything feels built around student needs. The streets are full of young renters and uni crowds heading to local cafés like Lucy’s Café & Bakery for their morning coffee before lectures. Students gather for group runs along Estella Drive or chill at open green spaces in the evenings. The vibe is friendly, and you’ll always bump into someone from class. With nightlife and CBD spots just a short rideshare away, Estella offers the perfect blend of quiet weekdays and exciting weekends.
5. Boorooma
Known for: Newer housing developments and a quiet, residential feel.
Why Students Love It: It’s close to CSU but a bit calmer than Estella.
Nearby Campus: CSU (2.5 km)
Pros: Safe, clean, a great student community, and modern streets.
Safety Index: 8.6 / 10
Students Living Here: ~980
Boorooma is one of the coolest Wagga Wagga suburbs if you want modern living and a fresh social scene. Students love hanging around North Wagga Bakery, grabbing takeaway, or enjoying chill study breaks at Boorooma Park. Smooth cycling paths make exploring easy, whether heading into town or meeting classmates at restaurants around the CBD. The area feels new, clean, and safe, attracting internationals and first-year students who want a community vibe right away. With weekend access to sporting facilities and campus events, Boorooma is a top pick for organised, active student life.
6. Central Wagga Wagga (CBD)
Known for: Shopping, nightlife, amazing food, and public transport.
Why Students Love It: You can walk everywhere – no car needed!
Nearby Campus: TAFE NSW (1.2 km) | CSU (7.5 km)
Pros: Lively, well-connected, and has the best dining options.
Safety Index: 7.8 / 10
Students Living Here: ~1,300
If you love city energy, the CBD is one of the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga you can choose. Students crowd Fitzmaurice Street cafés, including favourites like Coffee Niche, Uneke Lounge, and the lively Hampden Bar for nights out. Shopping trips to Wagga Marketplace, cinema outings, riverside lunches at Cadell Place, and weekend markets make every day feel fun. It’s extremely walkable, with buses and rideshares easily accessible. For students who thrive in social environments, this is where you’ll meet new people every week and enjoy the full uni lifestyle.
7. Forest Hill
Known for: New developments and being close to the airport.
Why Students Love It: It’s quiet and practical, especially for part-time jobs nearby.
Nearby Campus: CSU (12 km)
Pros: Clean, calm environment, and modern housing.
Safety Index: 8.4 / 10
Students Living Here: ~620
Forest Hill is a great fit for students wanting space, calmness, and a more relaxed weekly routine. It’s close to Wagga Wagga Airport, making it convenient for interstate students. Locals love Forest Hill Shopping Centre, which has a bakery, supermarket, and places for casual hangouts. Wide-open streets, weekend barbecues, and parks give the neighbourhood a homey feel. Students often join community activities or sports to unwind. Its peaceful nature makes it one of the best neighbourhoods in Wagga Wagga for those who want less distraction and more focus on studies.
8. Mount Austin
Known for: Affordable rentals and suburban comfort.
Why Students Love It: Cheaper housing plus a really friendly vibe.
Nearby Campus: CSU (9 km)
Pros: Budget-friendly, easy to get around, and parks nearby.
Safety Index: 7.5 / 10
Students Living Here: ~850
Mount Austin is one of the most budget-friendly suburbs in the region, perfect for students trying to save while staying social. The suburb has green public spaces like McPherson Oval, popular for kickabouts and group workouts. Quick meals, corner shops, and friendly neighbours make daily living easy. Bus routes connect you to the CBD for classes or weekend plans with friends. Mount Austin offers a mix of convenience and affordability while still being part of a lively and student-friendly community, a great entry point into Wagga life.
9. Ashmont
Known for: Budget-friendly student accommodation and cultural diversity.
Why Students Love It: Lower rent and tons of community spirit.
Nearby Campus: CSU (10 km)
Pros: Very affordable, well-connected, and social.
Safety Index: 7.0 / 10
Students Living Here: ~780
Ashmont is one of the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga for students who prioritise affordability. It has multicultural eateries, community centres, and parks where international students feel at home. The suburb hosts lively weekend sports and has good public bus access to everything in town. Ashmont gives students more freedom to spend on travel, food, and fun rather than rent. For those who enjoy a socially diverse environment and don’t mind being a little further from the city buzz, this area is a practical choice.
10. Glenfield Park
Known for: Big retail convenience and a modern suburban feel.
Why Students Love It: Everything you need is close – food, gym, public transport.
Nearby Campus: CSU (8 km)
Pros: Safe, convenient, and newer housing options.
Safety Index: 8.2 / 10
Students Living Here: ~900
Students who love having everything within minutes will find Glenfield Park one of the best areas for student living. The highlight is South City Shopping Centre, featuring Woolworths, fast-food favourites, gyms, and cafés like The Blessed Bean Mobile on weekends. With well-maintained streets and access to fun activities, the area has a solid social flow, movie nights, group dinners, and sports sessions are always part of the plan. It’s safe, modern, and hassle-free, making it a top choice among the best suburbs in Wagga Wagga for students who want convenience and plenty to do.
Student Accommodation In Wagga Wagga
Finding student accommodation in Wagga Wagga is super convenient, thanks to a variety of modern and affordable living options designed specifically for university and TAFE students. Whether you want a private studio for focused study time or a shared apartment to make new friends, Wagga offers choices for every lifestyle. Many student accommodation Wagga options are located close to Charles Sturt University and TAFE NSW, making daily travel easy and budget-friendly. With amber, you can discover and book verified, fully-furnished rooms that come with essentials like high-speed Wi-Fi, onsite laundry, secure access, and social spaces perfect for group hangouts. From being near cafes and shopping spots to living minutes away from campus, finding a place that fits your needs is smooth, safe, and stress-free with amber.













