16 Most Affordable Suburbs in Sydney

Australia has long existed as a haven for the most diverse groups of people. From families looking for better lifestyles to international students looking to make a name for themselves, the Land Down Under has welcomed all with open arms. The question arises. Which are the best suburbs in Sydney? It is key that international students know the cheapest Sydney suburbs to rent when deciding to move there for further education. 

In this blog, we will provide students with the definitive answers to the questions surrounding the best and safest suburbs in Sydney at the most affordable prices possible.

Top 15 Best Suburbs In Sydney

Choosing where to live in Sydney can be challenging with numerous great options spread across its scenic coastlines and leafy, secure neighbourhoods. From beachside living to family-friendly suburbs, this list of the best suburbs in Sydney highlights areas that offer a perfect mix of safety, convenience, and upscale lifestyle for diverse residents and students alike.

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1. Double Bay

Average Rent: $2,500/week
Safety Index: 85
Population: 4,636
Nearest University: University of New South Wales (UNSW)
Best For: Affluent professionals and families

Double Bay, just 4km from Sydney's CBD, stands out as the best suburb in Sydney for its luxury harbourside urban lifestyle, designer boutiques, and prestigious vibe. With a high walkability score of 86, errands are a breeze on foot amid tree-lined streets and upscale shops. Excellent transport options include buses and ferries from Double Bay Wharf, reaching the CBD in under 20 minutes. Infrastructure boasts modern apartments with water views and ongoing developments for premium living. Famous hangouts include Blackburn Gardens for harbour vistas, Seven Shillings Beach, and Murray Rose Pool, plus chic cafes and yacht marinas for sophisticated outings.

2. Surry Hills

Average Rent: $1,200/week 
Safety Index: 60
Population: 16,408
Nearest University: University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
Best For: Young professionals and creatives

Adjacent to Sydney's CBD,Surry Hills is one of the top suburbs in Sydney with buzzing cafe culture, creative energy, and eclectic vibes, perfect for urban dwellers craving culture and nightlife without the full city frenzy. Boasting a stellar walkability score of 97, it's a walker's paradise with all amenities in its lively lanes. Transportation is top-notch with buses, light rail, and Central Station nearby for seamless CBD access. Infrastructure features converted warehouses blending residential and commercial spaces amid urban renewal. Iconic hangouts include Crown Street's trendy bars and eateries, the Belvoir Theatre for the arts, and Prince Alfred Park for picnics, fostering a vibrant, active, community-driven scene. Its safety, accessibility, and lifestyle make it one of the safest suburbs in Sydney for students and professionals alike. It is one of the good places to live in Sydney

3. Newtown

Average Rent: $1,100/week
Safety Index: 65
Population: 15,027
Nearest University:University of Sydney (USYD)
Best For: Students, artists, and young adults

Newtown, 4km southwest of Sydney's CBD, shines in the list of Sydney's top suburbs for its eclectic street art, live music, and diverse community, making it great for creative souls seeking an energetic yet relaxed inner-west lifestyle. With a walkability score of 95, daily errands are effortless along vibrant streets. Transport includes trains to the CBD in 10 minutes and light rail extensions. Infrastructure boasts heritage terraces and modern apartments amid ongoing cultural precinct developments. Famous spots include King Street's eateries and boutiques, Enmore Theatre for gigs, Dendy cinema, and Camperdown Oval parks, all contributing to its ranking of the most popular suburbs in Sydney.

4. Mosman

Average Rent: $2,000/week 
Safety Index: 85
Population: 28,470
Nearest University: University of Sydney (USYD)
Best For: Families and executives

Mosman, 8km northeast of Sydney's CBD, is one of the best suburbs in Sydney, prized for its harbourside luxury, elite schools, and stunning views, ideal for those chasing upscale North Shore elegance with a safe, leafy ambiance. Its walkability score of 77 supports local errands amid green spaces. Transport features ferries to Circular Quay in 15 minutes and buses for easy commutes. Infrastructure includes heritage shop fronts on Military Road and ongoing prestige developments. Renowned hangouts encompass Balmoral Beach for swims, Taronga Zoo for family outings, Middle Harbour yacht clubs, and Chinaman’s Beach, blending pristine safety with sophisticated waterfront leisure.

5. Paddington

Average Rent: $1,500/week
Safety Index: 80
Population: 12,922
Nearest University: University of Sydney (USYD)
Best For: Young professionals and artists

Paddington, a 30-minute stroll (3km) fromSydney's CBD, captivates with trendy terraces, creative galleries, and bohemian charm, making it a nice suburb in Sydney for edgy urbanites loving fashion and culture in a heritage setting. With a walkability score of 93, it's highly navigable on foot. Transport relies on efficient bus networks in the city. Infrastructure highlights Victorian terraces and modern apartments near tech hubs. Popular spots include Oxford Street's bars and boutiques, Centennial Park for jogs, Paddington Reservoir Gardens, weekly markets since 1973, and arthouse cinemas, all enhancing its lively, walkable precinct vibe.

6. Manly

Average Rent: $1,800/week
Safety Index: 80
Population: 15,854
Nearest University: Macquarie University
Best For: Beach lovers and families

Manly, a 30-minute ferry ride from Sydney's CBD, excels in iconic beach life with surf, seafood, and coastal walks. Its walkability score of 83 aids errands along vibrant paths. Transport shines with scenic ferries and bicycle tracks. Infrastructure includes Art Deco apartments and Federation homes near recreation hubs. Famous hangouts feature Manly Beach for surfing, The Corso's outdoor dining and shops, North Head vistas, and Spit Bridge, blending low-crime safety with eternal beach culture appeal. With its charm and coastal living convenience, Manly easily ranks among the best Sydney neighbourhoods. It is often listed as one of the best suburbs in Sydney Australia, for lifestyle and livability.

7. Parramatta

Average Rent: $750/week
Safety Index: 55
Population: 25,793
Nearest University:Western Sydney University (WSU)
Best For: Young professionals, families, and investors

Parramatta, 25km west of Sydney's CBD, transforms into the "second CBD" with skyscrapers, multicultural vibes, and affordability, ideal for growing families and pros seeking urban renewal and value. The walkability score of 81 supports local navigation. Transport is stellar with direct trains (20 minutes to the city), light rail, and ferries along the Parramatta River. Infrastructure boasts resort-style apartments, Westfield shopping, and riverside dining amid booming developments. Key spots include Parramatta Park for local events, Western Sydney University, and diverse eateries, fostering a vibrant, accessible community hub, making it one of the best neighbourhoods in Sydney Australia.

8. Summer Hill

Average Rent: $900/week 
Safety Index: 80
Population: 7,315
Nearest University: University of Sydney (USYD)
Best For: Families and couples

Summer Hill, 7km west of Sydney's CBD, offers heritage charm and village vibes with cafes and community spirit, great for relaxed families wanting value and calm without sacrificing access. The walkability score of 77 enables foot-friendly errands. Transport includes light rail and trains to the CBD in 15 minutes. Infrastructure features evolving precincts with parks and schools like Summer Hill Public. Hangouts spotlight at these good places to live in Sydney are Summer Hill Square for dining, Summer Hill Reserve parks, and local pubs, all in a low-congestion, walkable setting with strong yields. Its peaceful environment and connected lifestyle make it one of the best suburbs in Sydney for family living. With its low crime statistics and close-knit community, it’s also among the safest suburbs in Sydney.

9. Randwick

Average Rent: $1,200/week (houses), $750/week (units)
Safety Index: 75
Population: 29,994
Nearest University: University of New South Wales (UNSW)
Best For: Students, professionals, and families

Randwick, 6km southeast of Sydney's CBD, blends coastal cool with academic energy near beaches and UNSW, suiting students and pros for its lively yet balanced lifestyle. The walkability score of 83 facilitates errands. Transport excels with light rail to the CBD in 20 minutes and buses. Infrastructure includes hospital proximity and commercial hubs with cafes and stores. Famous venues feature Randwick Racecourse, Coogee Beach, Ritz Cinema, and Centennial Park, creating a bustling, beachy scene with solid schools, making it one of the best suburbs in Sydney.

10. Balmain

Average Rent: $1,200/week
Safety Index: 80
Population: 10,456
Nearest University: University of Sydney (USYD)
Best For: Families and professionals

Balmain, 2km west of Sydney's CBD, charms with historic terraces, Sydney Harbour Bridge views, and a village feel, ideal for couples and families desiring eclectic vibes and community. The walkability score of 93 makes it highly accessible on foot. Transport includes ferries to Circular Quay in 10 minutes and buses. Infrastructure boasts reliable roads and heritage shops. Hangouts include Darling Street pubs and cafes, Ballast Point parks, and waterfront walks, enhancing its cultural richness and safe, walkable appeal. Its charm and convenience make it one of Sydney's top suburbs for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. With its vibrant atmosphere and strong community spirit, Balmain stands out among the popular suburbs in Sydney.

11. Lane Cove

Average Rent: $1,000/week 
Safety Index: 85
Population: 10,817
Nearest University: Macquarie University
Best For: Families and professionals

Lane Cove, a 10-minute drive (9km) north-west of Sydney's CBD, impresses with leafy bushland, village atmosphere, and top liveable suburbs, perfect for families seeking green space and safety. The walkability score of 79 supports local strolls. Transport features buses to Chatswood and cycle paths. Infrastructure includes the Canopy hub with supermarkets and playgrounds. Famous areas encompass Lane Cove National Park for kayaking, riverside reserves, and performance spaces, blending pristine parks with cosmopolitan developments. 

12. Cronulla

Average Rent: $1,100/week 
Safety Index: 80
Population: 18,083
Nearest University: University of New South Wales (UNSW)
Best For: Beach lovers and families

Cronulla, 26km south of Sydney's CBD, defines a coastal paradise with surfing beaches, esplanades, and relaxed vibes, suiting families and water enthusiasts for its safe, sunny lifestyle. The walkability score of 79 aids beachside errands. Transport includes trains to the CBD in 50 minutes. Infrastructure features open-air shopping and unit blocks. Iconic spots include Cronulla Beach, Gunnamatta Park, rock pools, and mall dining, fostering a vibrant, low-crime beach culture with sports hubs. 

13. Winston Hills

Average Rent: $800/week 
Safety Index: 85
Population: 11,694
Nearest University: Western Sydney University (WSU)
Best For: Families

Winston Hills, 28km west of Sydney's CBD, appeals as a budget-friendly family haven with spacious homes, parks, and a community safety feel, great for raising kids in a safe, suburban setting. A low walkability score of 50 favours driving. Transport via the Cumberland Line trains reaches the city in 20 minutes. Infrastructure includes Winston Hills Mall and schools like Model Farms High. Hangouts feature local parks and malls for relaxed outings, emphasising value and low vacancy. 

14. Rouse Hill

Average Rent: $800/week 
Safety Index: 80
Population: 7,971
Nearest University: Western Sydney University (WSU)
Best For: Growing families and first buyers

Rouse Hill, 43km northwest of Sydney's CBD, thrives as a master-planned hotspot with new homes and amenities, ideal for young families eyeing affordability and growth near infrastructure. The walkability score of 49 suits car-dependent lifestyles. Transport includes the Metro Northwest line to the CBD in 35 minutes. Infrastructure boasts the Rouse Hill Town Centre, shopping, and parks. Key hangouts like Featherstone Oval and modern developments offer family-friendly recreation in a booming, safe area. 

15. Gregory Hills

Average Rent: $750/week 
Safety Index: 80
Population: 4,972
Nearest University: Western Sydney University (WSU)
Best For: Young families and first buyers

Gregory Hills, 58km southwest of Sydney's CBD, emerges as a budget gem in a master-planned community, perfect for first buyers and families with modern conveniences and growth potential near the airport. A low walkability score of 40 relies on cars. Transport accesses the M7 motorway to the CBD in 45 minutes. Infrastructure includes new homes, parks, and schools like Elizabeth Macarthur High. Hangouts feature family parks and emerging amenities, highlighting affordability and strong yields in a safe, expanding area. 

Why Choose The Safest And Best Suburbs In Sydney?

As a student coming into a new country, there can exist a whole list of reasons why you would want to live in the best suburbs in Sydney, which are on a cheaper scale. It could be inflated costs in the business city centres, or perhaps you just prefer living in peace. Well, below are some common reasons why you should opt for the most affordable suburbs in Sydney:

1. Quality of life: The suburbs tend to be more relaxed compared to the city’s hustle and bustle. Sit back and relish!

2. Savings: Living in the nice suburbs in Sydney to rent directly equates to more ka-ching! 

3. Community Living: The best suburbs in Sydney are often known for their close-knit community living. Socialise!

4. Student-friendly environment: Other students like you have likely chosen to stay in the most affordable suburbs in Sydney, too, something that can help you feel more at home.

5. Part-time work: There will be more opportunities to find part-time work that doesn't cause you too much stress and can be more of a leisure activity.

Rely On Amber For Student Accommodation In Sydney’s Top Suburbs

Finding affordable and cheap student accommodation in Sydney can be challenging, but withamber, it doesn't have to be. Amber helps students discover and secure the beststudent accommodation in Sydney, from budget-friendly shared apartments to fully furnished studios near major universities. With verified listings, round-the-clock support, and student-first services, amber makes the entire booking process smooth, secure, and stress-free. Here are some options for housing in the nice suburbs in Sydney:

In conclusion, the best suburbs in Sydney provide a perfect blend of cost-effective living and quality of life. From Summer Hill's serene landscapes to Newtown's vibrant atmosphere, these most affordable suburbs in Sydney cater to diverse preferences, ensuring students and families alike find the ideal place to call home. International students, in particular, can benefit from lower rents, a welcoming community, and proximity to educational institutions. Whether you're seeking peace, accessibility, or cost-effectiveness, this list of the 15 most affordable suburbs in Sydney offers something for everyone. If you are planning on pursuing a life in one of these suburbs in the city,  you can read ourStudent City Guide: Sydney. 

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