Brisbane QLD, the capital city of Queensland, Australia, is one of the most dynamic and student-friendly destinations in the country. With a population of over 2.5 million people, it offers a perfect mix of urban energy and natural beauty, making it a prime location for higher education. The new city stretches along the Brisbane River, surrounded by scenic mountains and beaches, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and students who enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
Founded in the early 19th century, Brisbane has transformed from a quiet river settlement into a bustling modern hub. It’s known for its year-round sunshine, thriving music and arts scene, and a youthful population that embraces Australian culture, which makes living close to campus for students living in Brisbane both lively and social. Festivals for cultural immersion like Brisbane Festival, Laneway Festival, and Riverfire draw thousands every year, giving the city an unmistakably creative vibe that resonates with Gen Z students.
When it comes to education, Brisbane is home to some of the country’s top institutions, including The University of Queensland (UQ), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and Griffith University. Many students choose student housing in Brisbane for convenience and access to lively neighborhoods like St Lucia and Kelvin Grove. The demand for student housing in Brisbane continues to grow as more students call the city home.
Amber offers a variety of verified student apartments in Brisbane, from shared rooms to studios, designed for students who want comfort, convenience, and a sense of belonging. With plenty of rooms for rent in Brisbane, you can find student apartments Brisbane options near universities and city hotspots like Kelvin Grove and St Lucia that fit both your budget and lifestyle. From social spaces and gyms to study zones, swimming pools and rooftop lounges.
Here are some of the top student housing Brisbane:
1. Iglu Kelvin Grove Student Accommodation – ★★★★☆ (4.7/5.0) – “modern, social, and just steps away from QUT Kelvin Grove campus.” – From AU$399/week
2. Scape South Bank – ★★★★★ (4.6/5.0) – “lively, modern, and just minutes away from South Bank’s student hotspots.” – From AU$499/week
3. Student One Elizabeth Street – ★★★★☆ (5.0/5.0) – “Central location, great facilities, and perfect for students who love city living.” – From AU$439/week
4. Student One Wharf Street – ★★★★☆ (5.0/5.0) – “Spacious rooms with amazing communal spaces and quick access to campus.” – From AU$429/week
5. Iglu Brisbane City – ★★★★★ (5.0/5.0) – “Friendly community, secure, and one of the best-located student apartments in Brisbane.” – From AU$419/week
Finding the right balance between comfort and cost is key when you’re looking for Student Housing in Brisbane. The city offers plenty of options from chic student apartments in Brisbane to shared off-campus housing in Australia that let you enjoy life without overspending. Here are five great-value properties that make student living Brisbane easy, affordable and with more independence.
1. UniLodge Herston– From AU$199/week – “Comfortable, budget-friendly rooms with modern facilities, close to QUT and transport links.”
2. Scape Tribune– From AU$269/week – “Contemporary student apartments featuring private studios, study zones, and social lounges near key universities.”
3. Scape Regent– From AU$279/week – “Stylish rooms with on-site gym, rooftop terrace, and access to public transport.”
4. Scape Merivale– From AU$289/week – “Premium yet affordable apartments near South Bank, with cinema rooms and study spaces.”
5. Scape St Lucia– From AU$289/week – “Spacious student apartments near The University of Queensland, ideal for balanced study and leisure.”
Brisbane has a mix of neighbourhoods that suit every student’s lifestyle and budget. From riverside suburbs to lively inner-city districts, each area offers convenient access to major universities and the city centre. Whether you’re after modern accommodation in Brisbane for international students or shared rooms for rent in Brisbane situated close to the CBD, the city’s layout makes commuting simple (short bus ride or short walk) and student life easy (social events) to settle into.
| Area | Key Highlights | Nearby University | Avg. Weekly Rent (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Lucia | Cafes, bookstores & river walks; popular for shared or studio-style student accommodation Brisbane City | The University of Queensland (10 mins) | 175–220 |
| South Bank | Riverside dining, parklands & markets; lively Brisbane student accommodation hub | Griffith University & Queensland University of Technology (15 mins) | 350–500 |
| Toowong | Shopping centres, gyms & study cafes; well-connected for off-campus housing in Australia | The University of Queensland (15 mins) | 320–450 |
| West End | Creative, multicultural vibe; ideal for social student housing in Brisbane | Australian College of Applied Professions | 330–480 |
| Kelvin Grove | Close to campus; affordable and community-focused student accommodations in Kelvin Grove | Queensland University of Technology (Kelvin Grove) | 280–420 |
Student Residence Brisbane offers a diverse range of options to suit various preferences and budgets, ensuring every student can find a space that aligns with their lifestyle. Here's an overview of the room types available in Brisbane student accommodation:
1. Studio Apartments: Studio apartments in Brisbane are ideal for students seeking complete independence. These units include a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, offering maximum privacy and convenience. These student housing options are perfect for those looking for a self-contained living space.
2. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments: These apartments provide one or two private bedrooms along with shared living areas such as kitchens and lounges. They offer a balance between private space and social interaction, making them suitable for friends or small groups.
3. Shared Apartments: Shared houses consist of multiple private bedrooms within a single unit, with communal kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. This setup encourages social interaction, making new friends and community living while still offering personal space for each resident.
4. Private Rooms: Private rooms offer students a personal bedroom with essentials like a study desk and bed, with access to shared facilities such as kitchens and lounges. These rooms suit students who want independence without complete isolation.
Understanding the cost of living in Brisbane is essential for students budgeting their stay. Brisbane offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other major Australian cities, with various short term student accommodation Brisbane to suit different budgets. On average, students should plan for monthly expenses ranging from AUD 1,800 to 3,500, covering rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. This estimate outlines typical costs to help students manage their finances effectively during their time in Brisbane. With careful budgeting and the right housemates, private rentals can be the most affordable option.
List of Common Expenses
1. Accommodation: AU$1,200–$2,400/month
2. Groceries: AU$300 – AU$600/month (Food expenses for students in Brisbane average between AU$446 and AU$714 per month)
3. Transportation: Transportation costs for students in Brisbane average between AU$89 and AU$125 per month.
4. Utilities (Gas, Electricity, Water): AU$100 – AU$150/month
5. Internet: AU$50 – AU$80/month
6. Leisure & Social Activities: AU$100 – AU$200/month
Brisbane is a lively, student-friendly city with an efficient transport system that makes commuting convenient for students. Whether you’re heading to the University of Queensland, exploring nearby neighbourhoods, or visiting local cafes and cultural hotspots, the city offers multiple transport options to suit different needs and lifestyles. Students living in student residence Brisbane or off-campus housing in Australia can travel across the city easily and affordably.
| Transport Option | Cost | Student Benefits | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Approx. £15/week (Student Pass) | Concession cards available for full-time university students | Connects major suburbs to city centre and campuses; stations near popular student accommodations | Long-distance daily commuting |
| Bus | Approx. £12/week (Student Weekly Pass) | Unlimited travel within selected zones | Extensive urban & suburban coverage; frequent services near universities; bus stops close to student housing | Budget-friendly daily travel |
| Ferry | Approx. £18/week | Concessions available with valid student ID | Scenic Brisbane River routes; connects central Brisbane to riverside suburbs | Comfortable & scenic commuting |
| Cycling | Free (excluding bicycle cost) | Healthy lifestyle choice | Dedicated bike lanes; secure bike storage at many accommodations; eco-friendly | Short trips & campus travel |
The student life in Brisbane revolves around its buzzing cafes, riverside hangouts, and year-round events that make every week feel like an adventure. Whether you’re catching up on assignments or exploring the outdoors, this city never runs out of the best things to do in Brisbane. Known for its low crime rate and laid-back vibe, Brisbane’s student-friendly neighbourhoods offer access to libraries, study lounges, and cool hangout spots. Students in Brisbane can easily access a thriving restaurant scene, offering a variety of cuisines. You’ll find plenty of cafes like The Gunshop Café and Coffee Anthology, perfect for long study sessions or quick caffeine breaks.
When it’s time to unwind, students usually head to Howard Smith Wharves or Felons Brewing Co. for after-class hangouts, while Roma Street Parkland and Kangaroo Point Cliffs are local favourites for picnics, jogging, or sunset views. Nightlife in Brisbane is electric too, with hotspots like The Met and Prohibition Brisbane drawing crowds of students every weekend. From the Brisbane Festival and Riverfire to the Regional Flavours Food Festival, the city celebrates creativity, culture, and community year-round. These events give international students a great way to connect, experience local life, and enjoy their time beyond academics in this sunshine state.
Brisbane is home to prestigious educational institutions that attract students nationally and internationally with strong academic programs and supportive campus communities. For students seeking student housing in Brisbane, Amber properties don't provide just student housing Brisbane; they give convenience, modern amenities, and a lively student lifestyle in southern Queensland.
| Institution | Overview | Nearby student apartments in Brisbane |
|---|---|---|
| University of Queensland (UQ) | Leading research university offering programs in sciences, arts, business & engineering | Scape South Bank |
| Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | Industry-focused university with Kelvin Grove & Gardens Point campuses | UniLodge on Margaret |
| Brisbane Grammar School | Prestigious independent school with strong academic & holistic focus | Scape Toowong |