Queensland’s sunny capital city, Brisbane, is a cultural hub filled with exciting things to explore, as well as various top universities that make it a top choice for domestic and international students alike.

If you’re looking for student accommodation in Brisbane, you’re in the right place. We list a range of options, so whether you’re looking to share with friends or prefer the independence of your own studio apartment, there’s sure to be a space here to suit your style.

Start browsing our accommodation at the top of the page – or continue reading to learn more about student life in Brisbane, including the best areas to live, exciting things to do and student cost of living.  

Universities in Brisbane

Brisbane is home to 14 universities, offering a broad range of opportunities to prospective students in the capital of Queensland. 

University of Queensland

The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of the best universities in Australia and regularly ranks among the top 50 institutions worldwide. With a rich history, the university was founded in 1909 and currently hosts around 55,000 students from all over the globe.

UQ offers courses across a wide range of fields, but is especially well known for environmental science, mineral and mining engineering, pharmacy and pharmacology and sports science.

The university is made up of four main campuses, three of which – St Lucia, Herston and Dutton Park – are based in Brisbane.

Heading here for your studies? Check out our dedicated range of UQ accommodation. 

Queensland University of Technology

The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is another of Australia’s leading universities, regularly ranking among the top 15 positions nationally. It was established in its current form in 1989, but its roots date all the way back to 1849.

Over 50,000 students study here, with a growing population of international students from more than 100 different countries around the world. So, if you’d like to study in a university with an international atmosphere, QUT is definitely a good choice.

Despite its name, QUT does offer courses in other fields as well, not just technology. In addition to studying science and engineering, you can also take courses in fields such as languages, law, and business.

Looking for somewhere to live close to campus? We also have lots of options for QUT accommodation! 

Griffith University

Griffith University is ranked among the top 20 universities in Australia, as well as the top 300 globally. It was founded in 1971, making it a relatively modern institution, and was the first university in Australia to offer degrees in environmental science and Asian studies.

Today, Griffith has around 44,000 students across four campuses and an online one. The biggest campuses are Nathan in South Brisbane and the Gold Coast – both buzzing spots for student life.

Think this is the university for you? Then check out our apartments near Griffith University! 

James Cook University 

James Cook University (JCU) is a multi-campus university with one of its main sites based in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. It’s got a great reputation, regularly ranking among the top 25 universities in Australia.

The university was founded in 1961, and offers a variety of courses from marine science to social work. The Brisbane campus is home to a close-knit community of around 1,100 students from over 88 countries around the world.

Ready to immerse yourself somewhere new? We offer a fantastic range of JCU Brisbane accommodation. 

Other universities in Brisbane

As well as the larger institutions above, Brisbane has several other universities that might be the right fit for you. Central Queensland University has five-star ratings for teaching quality, overall experience and employment outcomes.

There’s also Torrens University, which offers courses in design and creative technology, health and hospitality from its Fortitude Valley campus. Another great choice would be the Australian Catholic University, which is ranked among the best in Australia for research quality. 

Things for students to do in Brisbane

Known for its quirky culture and friendly residents, Brisbane is full of green parks, lively activities and great weather. Students can discover hidden laneways of vintage boutiques and galleries, then refuel in the countless coffee shops spread throughout the city. 

Arts & culture 

To get a dose of culture, head over to the Queensland Cultural Centre, where you can find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Queensland Museum, the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Art Gallery and the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art. 

Food & drink

The city offers a world-class, dynamic dining scene. South Bank is lined with picturesque riverside spots, while Burnett Lane and Albert Lane are the places to go for charming bars and restaurants. 

Nightlife

Brisbane has a lively nightlife scene packed with variety. For bustling rooftop bars, restaurants, nightclubs and live music, head to Fortitude Valley. The Triffid is great for live bands and a beer garden, and on student-night Thursdays, clubs like Prohibition host affordable events where you can dance the night away. 

Outdoors

The city’s open spaces offer a taste of the great outdoors. Hike to the summit of Mount Coot-tha, west of the city centre, for spectacular skyline views, or escape the heat with a swim at Streets Beach on the banks of the Brisbane River. 

Day trips

If you want to explore the Queensland coast further, there are some great places close by. The Gold Coast is about an hour away by car to the south, and the Sunshine Coast is a bit further than that to the north. Both places are home to beautiful beaches, and on the Sunshine Coast, you can also find the famous Australia Zoo, home to over 1,200 species. 

Best student areas in Brisbane

Brisbane’s best student areas mix vibrant nightlife with easy access to university life. Visit the West End for artsy cafés and laid-back bars, South Bank for riverside vibes and culture and St Lucia for a more relaxed, student-friendly base close to campus. 

St Lucia

St Lucia is a peaceful, riverside suburb in Brisbane, home to UQ’s main campus. The area offers a range of student accommodation options, catering to different budgets and preferences.

St Lucia is well-connected by public transport, with multiple bus routes and ferry services providing easy access to the CBD and surrounding areas. The suburb's tranquil environment, combined with its proximity to the university, makes it a popular choice for many students. 

West End

West End is one of Brisbane’s most popular student neighbourhoods, loved for its creative, laid-back vibe and central location just south of the CBD. The area has a mix of more affordable shared housing and modern student apartments, so there are lots of options.

Packed with cafés, vintage shops, multicultural restaurants and buzzing weekend markets, West End has a true community feel. It’s also well connected by bus and ferry, with UQ and QUT’s Gardens Point campus both within easy reach. 

South Bank

South Bank is Brisbane’s vibrant cultural and educational hub, offering riverside living, arts and convenience. Located just across the river from the CBD, it’s home to Griffith University’s South Bank campus, TAFE Queensland and Queensland College of Art.

The area has a rich cultural scene with attractions like the Queensland Art Gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art and Queensland Museum. Students can also enjoy the South Bank Parklands, featuring lush green gardens, the Streets Beach lagoon and dining options along Grey and Little Stanley Streets. 

Student cost of living in Brisbane

Living in Brisbane is generally more affordable than other cities like Sydney or Melbourne, but slightly higher than regional Australian locations. The price of rent for student apartments in Brisbane typically ranges from $1,000–$1,500 per month.

Other living costs, including food, transport, and entertainment, will generally come to around $500 per month, meaning most students will generally need between $1,500–$2,000 per month to live comfortably. 

Free things to do in Brisbane 

Luckily for students, there are loads of free things to do in Brisbane. You can explore the South Bank Parklands, stroll along the river or relax at Streets Beach – a man-made inner-city lagoon.

Nature lovers can enjoy the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mount Coot-tha or hike the trails at Kangaroo Point Cliffs for panoramic city views. Art and culture enthusiasts can visit Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art, which both offer regular free exhibitions. 

Student discounts in Brisbane 

Students in Brisbane can save money across the city with a valid student ID and a TransLink card. Public transport is cheap, with discounted bus, train and ferry fares making commuting to university or hanging out with friends easy.

Many cafés and local shops in student hubs like West End and South Bank offer deals or loyalty perks, too. You can also find discounts at local cinemas, live music venues and theatres. 

Public transport in Brisbane

Brisbane’s public transport is reliable and student-friendly, with trains, buses and ferries connecting the city, suburbs and university campuses.

Bus

Brisbane’s bus network covers the city and suburbs with frequent services throughout the day, generally starting from early morning until around midnight. Tickets can be purchased via a Go Card or the TransLink app, with students eligible for the reduced, 50-cent travel fare.

Key routes connect major universities, including UQ, QUT and Griffith, as well as popular student areas like West End and South Bank. 

Train

Brisbane’s train network links the city with inner and outer suburbs, offering frequent services during peak times and regular intervals off-peak. Students can use a Go Card with the 50-cent travel fare for discounted trips.

Key lines connect to major universities, including QUT’s more remote Kelvin Grove campus, and provide easy access to South Bank, West End and the CBD. 

Ferry

The CityCat and ferries provide a scenic, convenient way to travel along the Brisbane River, and similarly to the trains and buses, students can take advantage of the 50-cent base fare with a Go Card.

Ferries connect key hubs like South Bank, West End, and the CBD, offering a more relaxed alternative to buses and trains. 

Frequently asked questions 

Is Brisbane a safe place for students to live?

Brisbane is generally a very safe place for students, with a low crime rate and 24/7 campus security at major universities like UQ and QUT. As with any city, to stay safe, stick to well-lit areas, travel with friends at night and keep valuables secure. 

When should I start looking for student accommodation in Brisbane?

Start searching for accommodation in Brisbane as early as possible to avoid missing out on the most popular options. The rental market can be competitive, especially near UQ, QUT and Griffith University, so it’s best to start looking several months before your start date. 

How much does student accommodation in Brisbane cost?

Student housing in Brisbane typically ranges from $1,000–$1,500, depending on location and whether you're sharing. West End and St Lucia tend to be more affordable, while South Bank is pricier on average. Overall, rent is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making Brisbane a more cost-conscious choice. 

Where are the best areas for students in Brisbane?

Popular student areas in Brisbane include West End, known for its creative vibe and affordability, St Lucia, ideal for UQ students, and South Bank, perfect for those wanting culture, nightlife and close proximity to QUT and Griffith University. 

Do I need a visa to study abroad in Brisbane?

International students need an Australian Student Visa (subclass 500) to study in Brisbane. Applications require confirmation of enrolment, financial proof and health insurance. Details and application guidance are available on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website. 

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