Finding the best student accommodation Melbourne that caters to your preferences during your studying can be a daunting task. With over 200,000 students calling this cultural capital home, the demand for high-quality housing is at an all-time high. Whether you are looking for a high-rise studio with Melbourne CBD views or a social hub in the leafy suburbs of Carlton, choosing the right base is critical to your academic success and social life. In this article, we dive deep into the top-rated student apartments in Melbourne, comparing everything from rooftop pools to budget-friendly share houses, as well as showing the factors to consider and liveable areas, ensuring you find a space that feels like home from the moment you land at this wonderful city.
What Are the Best Student Accommodation in Melbourne?
When we talk about the “best”, we aren’t just looking at a bed and a desk. The modern international student requires a “lifestyle hub” — a place that combines security, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a vibrant community. A suitable student apartment not only determines the commuting time and cost every day, but also directly affects your sense of security, social circle and study state. Taking into account factors such as geographical location, facilities, surrounding environment, student reputation, brand management capabilities, and the friendliness towards international students, the followings are currently the most popular best student accommodation in Melbourne, with high search interest, popularity ratings, and actual occupancy rate.
- UniLodge Melbourne Central — Best for RMIT students valuing transport convenience and budget-friendly factors.
- Journal Campus House — Best for UniMelb students appreciating aesthetics and modern designs, and living across the road from the campus.
- UniLodge Melbourne CBD — Best for RMIT students who want to be in the thick of Melbourne’s shopping and dining scene.
- Iglu South Yarra — Best for Monash students wanting convenient transportation access and enjoying trendy, upscale vibes of the south side.
- Scape Cornell Place — Best for RMIT, UniMelb, and Melbourne Institute of Technology students enjoying ultra-modern facilities, vibrant social spaces, and city-centre living.
- UniLodge Park Avenue — Best for both Monash and UniMelb students who want a short-commute with budget-conscious plans.
- The Switch Melbourne Victoria Market — Best for RMIT and Victoria University’s Flinders Campus students wanting innovative, tech-forward living spaces.
- dwell Village Melbourne City — Best for UniMelb, Trinity College, and RMIT students wanting spacious outdoor courtyards and legendary social events.
Below, we provide a detailed breakdown of each property to help you decide which one aligns with your personal “Melbourne vibe.”
Details of the Best Student Accommodation in Melbourne
1. UniLodge Melbourne Central
UniLodge Melbourne Central is one of the most representative student apartments in the CBD of Melbourne, leading the perfect home list. It is particularly favored by students from RMIT and the University of Melbourne. This UniLodge apartment is located right next to Melbourne Central commercial area, just a short walk away from the train station, the railway station, supermarkets, shopping centres and various restaurants. For new international students, this “zero-barrier” location advantage is extremely obvious.
The room types mainly include studio and en-suite, which are all fully furnished. Communal amenities include a study room, a gym, a communal kitchen, a laundry room and 24-hour front desk management. It has high levels of safety and convenience. In addition, its distinctive sky lounge and rooftop gym can offer you an amazing panoramic view of the Melbourne skyline. The overall rent is at an above-average level, but it includes utilities and internet fees, making it easier to control the budget. It is suitable for new students who do not want to deal with bills frequently.
2. Journal Campus House
Ideally located directly across the road from the University of Melbourne and within easy reach of the CBD, Journal Campus House becomes another best student accommodation in Melbourne, offering a premier living experience. This fully furnished accommodation prioritises a holistic lifestyle, blending convenience with well-being through its “all-inclusive” rent model that covers all utilities and high-speed internet.
Journal Campus House offers a flexible range of room options from shared apartments to private studios, bringing a space for every preference and budget. The facility is designed to alleviate the pressures of study by providing an array of premium amenities, including an expansive library for quiet focus, daily cleaning of communal zones, and multiple outdoor areas—including a lush internal garden and a scenic rooftop — perfect for unwinding. Furthermore, it’s signature “Journal Life” program fosters a vibrant community through various activities, such as cooking classes and career workshops, making it the ultimate hub for those looking to build a professional and social network while studying in Melbourne.
3. UniLodge Melbourne CBD
UniLodge Melbourne CBD is more of a standardized and mature student apartment complex. It has a stable management system and is very friendly to international students. Within walking distance to RMIT, Victoria University City Flinders Campus, and the University of Melbourne, this UniLodge property brings convenient daily commute for you. From fully furnished studios, en-suites and non-en-suites to the indoor level 36 sky lounge and fully-equipped gym to the nearby Queen Victoria Market and Flagstaff Gardens, your living experience has never been so cosy and lively.
Its advantages lie in its balance: the location is good but not too noisy; the facilities are complete but the style is not overly flamboyant; the rent is in the middle of the market and is more acceptable to most student families.
If you are looking for a place that is “safe, trouble-free, and makes you feel at ease for a long term stay”, UniLodge Melbourne CBD is a reliable choice.
4. Iglu South Yarra
If you want to escape the concrete jungle of the CBD, Iglu South Yarra is the place to be. It is located in the South Yarra district, one of the most fashionable suburbs in Melbourne, which is also an area with significantly higher living standards than the average of the CBD.
Iglu South Yarra is just an 8-minute train ride to Monash University Caulfield Campus. Meanwhile, it is close to the train station, making it very convenient to commute to the CBD and various universities. At the same time, the surrounding environment is quieter, very suitable for graduate students or those who prefer a quiet lifestyle.
Iglu South Yarra accommodation is famous for its free weekday breakfast and coffee — a rare perk in the student housing world. With its proximity to Chapel Street’s cafes and boutiques, this residence appeals to students who want a sophisticated, “locals” experience of Melbourne.
5. Scape Cornell Place
Scape Cornell Place is designed with “vibe” in mind, featuring colourful, high-tech interiors and massive social zones. It’s a popular choice for international students due to its robust security and the sheer number of organised events.
The apartment is close to RMIT and the University of Melbourne, with short commuting time and is particularly friendly to new students. The advantages of Scape Cornell Place lie in its numerous activities and meticulous services, such as regularly organizing student social events and providing academic support resources. The rooms are compact but incredibly efficient, featuring tech-enabled bedheads and plenty of storage. If you want to make fifty new friends in your first week, Scape Cornell Place is your best bet.
6. UniLodge Park Avenue
UniLodge Park Avenue offers a more affordable Melbourne student housing choice without sacrificing safety. Located near Monash University Parkville Campus, and the University of Melbourne’s medical and engineering precincts, it’s a quiet, focused living environment. Moreover, this property positioned close to key tram lines, shops, dining options, and parks, making daily life easy on a budget.
While it has fewer “flashy” perks like cinemas, UniLodge Park Avenue provides all the essentials: secure swipe-card access, laundry facilities, and spacious study nooks. It’s the smart choice for the serious student watching your bank balance.
7. The Switch Melbourne Victoria Market
One of the newest additions to the Melbourne skyline, The Switch Melbourne Victoria Market is also one of the best student accommodations in Melbourne. It is located close to Melbourne Central, Victoria Museum and the State Library, as well as within walking distance to RMIT University, and Victoria University’s Flinders Campus. This is the only student apartment in Melbourne that offers free laundry and drying services. Also you can choose the room number when applying. It features a podcast studio, a sheltered rooftop with a DJ booth, and mobile-phone activated keys.
Its greatest advantage is its extremely high level of convenience for daily life: the market, supermarkets, and the train station are all within walking distance, making it very suitable for students who enjoy cooking for yourselves and are concerned about controlling your daily expenses.
8. dwell Village Melbourne City
Unlike many high-rise options, dwell Village Melbourne City offers a sense of space. It is centred around a large, landscaped courtyard with a swimming pool and BBQ decks—perfect for the summer months in Melbourne.
The house types are diverse and highly customizable, with excellent value for money. Some rooms have outdoor balconies. Some house types also provide short-term rentals starting from 4 weeks. It is within walking distance to the University of Melbourne and minors from the University of Melbourne are also acceptable.
It’s located on Flemington Road, meaning it’s a short tram ride to the CBD but far enough away to offer a bit of peace and quiet. The staff are frequently praised for their “above and beyond” service, particularly for students arriving on late-night international flights.
What Student Accommodation Types Are Available in Melbourne?
Melbourne’s rental market is diverse. To find the most suitable best student accommodation in Melbourne, the key lies in understanding what accommodation options are available and comprehending how each choice meets different learning and lifestyle requirements. Depending on your budget and desire for independence, you will likely choose one of these five categories:
1. Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Purpose-Built Student Accommodation is designed specifically for students, featuring fully-furnished rooms, all-inclusive bills, modern amenities, student-friendly community, and high-level security measures. Room types in PBSA are also various, from studios, en-suites, and non-en-suites to shared rooms, 1-bedroom apts, and shared multi-bedroom apts. Living in PBSA is a great way for international students to meet local students and make friends.
PBSA is typically situated near the university campuses, Melbourne CBD, or popular residential suburbs, offering you a short daily commute and convenient travel plans. Around the purpose-built student accommodation, you can easily find plenty of restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment options. Meanwhile, it is also well connected by the city’s public transport system, with buses, trams, trains easily accessible.
2. University-Managed Halls
University-Managed Halls are located on-campus, like Little Hall, providing you a worry-free commute and an easy access to on-campus facilities and activities. The rent of University-Managed Halls generally include meal plans and utility bills, but can be more expensive.
On-campus University-Managed Halls provide fully furnished rooms with a wide range of room options, like single room, double rooms, and triple rooms, and are also equipped with 24/7 on-site staff support and security.
3. Residential Colleges
Residential Colleges offer a more supported and community focused experience than University-Managed Halls. Residential Colleges are generally located off-campus, but just within 5-10 minutes to the campus on foot. This kind of student accommodation type also provides furnished rooms, meal plans, all-inclusive bills covering utilities, internet, and supportive services.
Living in Residential Colleges, you can have more chances to enjoy ample campus activities and events, and high academic supports from strong peer/staff. Each residential college in Melbourne is also equipped with 24/7 support and security to ensuring a safe and sounding living environment for students.
4. Private Rentals and ShareHouses
Private Rentals and ShareHouses are also the popular choice among Melbourne students due to the flexibility. There is a wide range of rent for private rentals and sharedhouses, and many of them are cheaper than on-campus housing, so you can selected the right one according to your budget plan. Meanwhile, the lease term is also flexible, from a couple of days to a whole year. Also, you can choose the location, room types, and even roommates. Private Rentals and ShareHouses are nestled in all the residential areas of Melbourne. Whether within the walking distance near the campus, in the CBD, or in the remote suburbs, you can find private accommodations everywhere.
However, it should be noted that not all private accommodations come with complete furniture. You may need to purchase furniture yourself, but this also gives you the opportunity to design your own living space. Meanwhile, the rent for private accommodation usually does not include the charges for utilities.
5. Homestays
Choosing Homestays means you are going to living with a local Australian family. It is a great way to improve your English and immerse yourselves in the local culture. Homestays offers full or partial catering depending on your needs. The utility bills are also included in the fees. However, there may be less privacy and less personal freedom. Some local families may ask for no fees but requiring students to help tutor their children’s homework.
What Are the Best Areas for Renting Melbourne Student Accommodation?
Where you live will define your Melbourne experience. Here is a quick guide to the most popular hubs to find the best student accommodation in Melbourne:
- Melbourne CBD — The central of Melbourne City, offering convenient commuting, hot shopping malls, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to famous universities, like RMIT and Victoria University. Free tram zone with complete urban living facilities.
- Carlton — Steps away from the University of Melbourne. Boasting academic vibe, great public transport access, affordable eats, and greeny spaces and parks.
- Clayton — Famous for its multiculturalism, containing stron focus on education and research. Home to Monash University. It is an affordable and quiet suburban yet still well-connected by the transportation systems and boasting a diverse food scene and parks.
- South Yarra — Ideal for students at Monash Caulfield. High quality of life and upmarket feel, also suitable for postgraduate students.
- Brunswick — Known for creative scene, various food options and slower living pace. Home for RMIT Brunswick campus. More private rental options.
What to Consider for Finding the Best Student Accommodation in Melbourne?
The best student accommodation in Melbourne should not only fit your budget plan, but also catering to your preferences and lifestyles. Here are the necessary factors to consider when having Melbourne housing exploration:
- Location: Proximity to campus; easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options; convenient for catching public transportation.
- Facilities: Fully furnished; modern communal amenities, like on-site laundry, gym, study room, parking areas, community events, and more.
- All-Inclusive Bills: Covering utility bills like water, gas, electricity and internet; some may also include contents insurance and cleaning service fees.
- Security: 24/7 security, CCTV surveillance, reception services, on-site management, fire system, and more.
- Community Atmosphere: Apartment buildings with active social events held by community can bring you more chances to communicate and make friends with peers and neighbours.
- Lease Term: Most student accommodation offers 12-month or 6-month lease term. There are also shor-term student housing in Melbourne with a coule of days to less than 3 months lease term contracts.
Conclusion
Melbourne is a world-class city that offers a student experience unlike any other. Whether you choose the high-tech luxury of Melbourne Victoria Market or the community-focused halls of Journal Campus House, your choice of accommodation will be the foundation of your Australian journey.
Remember, the “best” student accommodation is the one that fits your unique lifestyle and budget. Start your search early — the best spots are waiting for you to explore!
FAQs
What are the best student accommodations in Melbourne?
The best accommodations in Melbourne for students are UniLodge Melbourne Central, Journal Campus House, UniLodge Melbourne CBD, Iglu South Yarra, Scape Cornell Place, UniLodge Park Avenue, The Switch Melbourne Victoria Market, and dwell Village Melbourne City.
What is the best area to stay in Melbourne?
The best area to stay in Melbourne is the Melbourne CBD. It is in the central of Melbourne city, and providing numerous dining and shopping options, as well as vibrant nightlife and lively festivel scenes. Public transportation is also well linked, simplifying your travel plans. There is also a Free Tram Zone in Melbourne CBD, saving your travel fees.
Is student accommodation in Melbourne expensive?
Rents of Melbourne student accommodations are in a wide range, with from AU$220 – AU$850 per week averagely. Thus, you can have chances to rent a cheap flat start from AU$220 per week. Besides, Most student housing in Melbourne are all bills included, which adds significant value.
Do I need a visa to book Melbourne student accommodation?
In most cases, you can secure a room with your Letter of Offer from the university. However, student visa is necessary before you actually move in.
How can one maximize chances of booking the best student accommodation in Melbourne?
To successfully book the best student accommodation in Melbourne, you can start searching as early as possible, better 6 months before intake. Meanwhile, using trusted housing rental platforms, like uhomes.com is also a great choice. In addition, carefully considering your accommodation preferences and budget plans in advance can also help you efficiently select the most suitable and best student accommodation in Melbourne.
