Finding Your Perfect Suburb in Adelaide: Top 20 Suburbs for Students

Are you moving to Adelaide to study and worried about where you should live?  Whether you're a student seeking the perfect balance of academics and lifestyle or a professional looking for a peaceful retreat, Adelaide offers the best. In this blog, we will reveal the 20 best suburbs in Adelaide, each with its unique charm, landmarks, and character. 

20 Best Suburbs in Adelaide

Adelaide's top suburbs aren't just places to live; they are lively communities, each with its unbeatable environment. From the beachside bliss of Semaphore to the suburban elegance of Crafers, let's find out the best suburbs in Adelaide to stay in with us.

1. North Adelaide

Population: Approx 6000
Cost of Living: AU$1,300 - AU$1,500 per month.
Nearby Universities: Aquinas College & Kathleen Lumley College Inc.
Nearest Landmark: Adelaide Zoo & Adelaide Oval stadium
Student Accommodation: Y Suites on Waymouth

North Adelaide is one of the best suburbs in Adelaide since it offers a fantastic hilltop view, diverse culture, hundreds of dining options, and endless floors to dance on. This popular suburb in Australia attracts people from its Victorian homes to its River Torrens. Students who are fond of nature and want to live near Adelaide CBD should go for it! Do not be concerned about the challenges of finding accommodation in Australia since we have got you all covered throughout the blog. 

2. Henley Beach

Population: Approx 6200
Cost of Living: AU$1,200 - AU$1,400 per month
Nearby Universities: University of South Australia & Flinders University
Nearest Landmark: Adelaide Central Market & Adelaide Botanic Garden
Student Accommodation: Scape Adelaide Central 

Just a short drive away from the city centre, Henley Beach is a nice suburb in Adelaide known for its wide variety of green spaces as well as seaside living. Well, you might be surprised to hear this, but many people consider Adelaide's top suburb an amazing place for short stays. Henley Beach can easily be every student’s favourite as it has everything to eat, shop, and explore!

3. Aldgate 

Population: Approx 3400
Cost of Living: AU$1,500 - AU$1,700 per month
Nearby Universities: The University of Adelaide 
Nearest Landmark: Aldgate Pump 
Student Accommodation: Dwell East End Adelaide 

Aldgate proves itself as the best suburb in Adelaide when it comes to offering a community-led village lifestyle. All you can expect it to be is aesthetically pleasing and leafy, with a moderate temperature throughout the year. Students will surely love the type of cafes and bars and the size of houses they cover. If you want to explore the best bars in Adelaide and do not know where to start, then you can read our blog on 10 best bars in Adelaide. If you are looking for something like this, then surely move to Aldgate, one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide. 

4. Kensington 

Population: Approx 1700
Cost of Living: AU$1,000 - AU$1,100 per month
Nearby Universities: University of South Australia & Bible College of South Australia 
Nearest Landmark: Mary MacKillop Precinct & Beehive Corner
Student Accommodation: Scape Waymouth

Kensington is a small but one of the best suburbs in Adelaide, which has a very small crowd but a lot to offer. The connectivity of Kensington to various places in Adelaide will be surprising to you; all credit goes to its easy bus services. You will mostly see professionals living here, since it is a peaceful and very quiet suburb. It is a good suburb to live in Adelaide, as it will provide you with a relaxing place after getting back home from all the chaos!  

5. Prospect 

Population: Approx 22,000
Cost of Living: AU$1,200 - AU$1,600 per month
Nearby Universities: Eynesbury College & Stanley College
Nearest Landmark: Morialta Conservation Park & Air Raid Shelter
Student Accommodation: Leabrook 5068 

Prospect can be a fun and good suburb in Adelaide to live in if you agree with the phrase “the more, the merrier''. Do not focus much on the population, though, but more on the quality of life. It is 5 km away from the city centre. The most amazing thing about this best suburb in Adelaide is that you will find a good number of cafes or restaurants on the street here. People here have parties around the tree-lined streets. Better be prepared for a good time here!

6. Glenelg

Population: Approx 20,000
Cost of Living: AU$700 - AU$1,000 per month
Nearby Universities: The University of Adelaide College
Nearest Landmark: Glenelg Town Hall & Glenelg Oval Stadium
Student Accommodation: The Switch Adelaide Central

Glenelg is a laid-back but one of the best suburbs in Adelaide. It is all about a charming seaside atmosphere, a good-level food scene, spectacular sunsets, and an active outdoor lifestyle. You never have to worry about transportation when living in one of Adelaide's top suburbs since the trams here provide excellent connectivity. If you are still in a dilemma, then let us tell you this suburb has a socio-economic score of 10.  

7. Semaphore

Population: Approx 3000
Cost of Living: AU$ 500 - AU$1,000 per month
Nearby Universities: Torrens University Australia
Nearest Landmark: La La Vintage & Rundle Mall
Student Accommodation: Y Suites City Gardens

Where beachside bliss meets vintage charm, Semaphore is the 20-minute vacation from Adelaide centre you never knew you needed. Explore the sparkling waters and stroll along Semaphore Road's boutique-lined promenade. It's the perfect and nice suburb in Adelaide for students seeking a relaxed lifestyle. From cosy cottages with character to low-maintenance modern homes, this suburb offers a coastal retreat with a quirky twist.

8. Bowden

Population: Approx 1800
Cost of Living: AU$800 - AU$1,200 per month
Nearby Universities: Adelaide School Law
Nearest Landmark: Plant 4 Bowden & Adelaide Central Market
Student Accommodation: Yugo Adelaide City

Adelaide's top suburb, Bowden, is a perfect spot for young professionals with its artsy vibe. It offers many modern living options, including chic apartments and stylish homes, attracting those students who want to live in groups. Weekly night markets and the central Plant 4 Bowden provide an amazing atmosphere. The commute to the CBD is effortless, which makes it one of the best suburbs to stay in Adelaide. 

9. North Brighton

Population: Approx 2600
Cost of Living: AU$900 - AU$1,250 per month
Nearby Universities: Marden Senior College
Nearest Landmark: Somerton Park 
Student Accommodation: Capital Student Stays

Twenty-five minutes away from the Adelaide centre, North Brighton is a coastal haven. This popular suburb in Adelaide is home to the prestigious Brighton Secondary School and lush parklands. Houses on generous blocks are a stone's throw from friendly local shops, and the beach here is famous for refreshing summer dips. Discover the seaside serenity and top-notch education that make North Brighton the best suburb in Adelaide near the city.

10. Black Forest 

Population: Approx 2000
Cost of Living: AU$850 - AU$1,350 per month
Nearby Universities: Tabor College
Nearest Landmark: South Australian Museum 
Student Accommodation: UniLodge Metro Adelaide

Black Forest enchants students with its quaint charm, tree-lined streets, and welcoming community. Despite its petite size, this popular suburb in Adelaide beckons families and young couples with small Tudor-style homes as well as Victorian-style bungalows. Black Forest is a splendid suburb surrounded by top-notch schools with easy tram access.

These top 10 suburbs in Adelaide offer diverse living experiences. If you're considering a move to Australia for study or work, check out our blog on 10 things you need to know before studying in Australia for essential insights. Now, let's explore the remaining 10 suburbs on our list. Before we dive in, ensure you're well-prepared with our guide for a smooth transition to the Australian lifestyle.

11. Belair

Population: Approx 4700
Cost of Living: AU$900 - AU$1,400 per month
Nearby Universities: Australia Lutheran College 
Nearest Landmark: Windy Point Lookout
Student Accommodation: Thebarton 5031

Belair is one of the best suburbs in Adelaide, recognized for its lifestyle and climate. With a cost of living of AU$ 900, Belair offers an elevated living experience just 10 kilometres from the Adelaide CBD. If you want to plan your monthly expenses well, then you can read our blog on cost of living in Adelaide. Discover a harmonious balance of community spirit, scenic landscapes, and proximity to the city, making Belair Adelaide’s top suburb.

12. Crafers

Population: Approx 3300
Cost of Living: AU$500 - AU$1,000 per month
Nearby Universities: Australian Catholic University
Nearest Landmark: Adelaide Botanic Garden
Student Accommodation: Campbelltown 5074

Where million-dollar charm meets top-tier living, Crafers comes 12th on our list of the best suburbs in Adelaide. With a socio-economic score of 10, Crafers is Adelaide’s top suburb known for its community. This suburb is your gateway to picturesque landscapes, with Mount Lofty as a neighbour. Discover the perfect place with a pinch of prestige, warmth, and proximity to nature.

13. Highbury

Population: Approx 6000
Cost of Living: AU$600 - AU$900 per month
Nearby Universities: CQUniversity
Nearest Landmark: Anstey Hill Recreation Park
Student Accommodation: Mile End 5031

Highbury stands tall as a suburb in Adelaide and a unique one on its own. Dominated by detached houses at a solid 97%, this suburb is one of the best suburbs in Adelaide for students or professionals. With a robust socio-economic rank of nine, Highbury strikes the perfect balance between community charm and suburban allure. Explore this tucked-away gem where you can not just party but also do yoga while feeling the breeze on your face.

14. Norwood

Population: Approx 5900
Cost of Living: AU$600 - AU$1,100 per month
Nearby Universities: University of Adelaide
Nearest Landmark: Adelaide Gaol
Student Accommodation: Hilton 5033

Norwood is a good suburb to live in Adelaide as it is tucked close to the heart of Adelaide. Norwood is a suburb where city sophistication meets suburban charm. You can get into happy dining as well as shopping time here and become part of a welcoming, student-friendly community. Norwood is not just a suburb; it's a lifestyle where city convenience seamlessly mixes with the warmth of a close-knit neighbourhood. 

15. Eden Hill

Population: Approx 3700
Cost of Living: AU$650 - AU$1,250 per month
Nearby Universities: University of South Australia
Nearest Landmark: North Terrace 
Student Accommodation: Scape Waymouth

Embrace 'country living in the city' at Eden Hill. It is one of the best suburbs in Adelaide, where city views coexist with serenity. Existing close to hospitals and universities, this suburb is not just a home; it's a wise investment with great rental income potential. Welcoming neighbours and a picturesque setting make it your very own secret hills hideaway. Move-in, relish the peace, and enjoy the perfect blend of urban convenience and countryside charm at Eden Hill. Whether you're drawn to the seaside vibes of Glenelg, the artistic energy of Bowden, or the peaceful charm of Belair, there's a suburb for every taste and lifestyle. Adelaide's suburbs invite you to explore, settle in, and enjoy the unique flavours of this dynamic city. Welcome to the best of Adelaide's suburban living! 

16. Parkside

Population: Approx 4,500
Cost of Living: AU$1,000 - AU$1,400 per month
Nearby Universities: University of Adelaide
Nearest Landmark: Victoria Park
Student Accommodation: UniLodge Metro Adelaide
Parkside is ideally situated just minutes from Adelaide's central business centre. It's popular with both students and professionals, because of its lush streets and mix of old and modern architecture. Parkside provides not just quiet and community spirit, but also easy access to city amenities, making it an ideal suburb for both study and recreation.

17. Burnside

Population: Approx 2,900
Cost of Living: AU$1,200 - AU$1,600 per month
Nearby Universities: University of South Australia
Nearest Landmark: Burnside Village Shopping Centre
Student Accommodation: Yugo Adelaide City
Burnside, located east of the city centre, is well-known for its upmarket housing and shopping. It has several parks and recreational spaces, which are ideal for students who value a peaceful and high-quality living environment. The suburb also has outstanding schools and a thriving community, making it ideal for long-term academic achievement.

18. Mitcham

Population: Approx 5,100
Cost of Living: AU$1,000 - AU$1,300 per month
Nearby Universities: Flinders University
Nearest Landmark: Mitcham Square Shopping Centre
Student Accommodation: UniLodge On Waymouth
Mitcham is a charming combination of old and new, with sloping streets and large parks. Its proximity to Flinders University makes it an ideal location for students, while the suburb's retail and cinema offer a well-rounded lifestyle with easy access to city services.

19. Unley

Population: Approx 6,000
Cost of Living: AU$1,100 - AU$1,500 per month
Nearby Universities: University of Adelaide
Nearest Landmark: Unley Road Shopping
Student Accommodation: Scape At University Of Adelaide
Unley is a lively suburb known for its lively shopping district along Unley Road, featuring a range of boutiques, cafes, and gourmet shops. Which makes it one of the best suburbs in Adelaide. It offers a dynamic urban atmosphere with the comforts of suburban life, ideal for students who enjoy a bustling neighbourhood vibe.

20. Broadview

Population: Approx 3,800
Cost of Living: AU$900 - AU$1,200 per month
Nearby Universities: University of South Australia
Nearest Landmark: Broadview Oval
Student Accommodation: Capital Student Stays
This suburb is gaining popularity for its spacious layout and affordability. With its large blocks and numerous parks, Broadview is perfect for students who prefer a quieter, more spread-out community. The suburb offers excellent public transport options, making it easy to commute to educational institutions and city centres.