AUSTRALIAN CITIES: How they work, and tips on how to find a place to live as a student.

According to the last census, 26% of the population was born overseas. Of the population born overseas, 82% lives in the capital cities.  Believe it or not many of them arrived as International students (which means they had to go through the process you are currently having). From choosing the best course and institution, to choosing the best city and finding cheap rooms in Australia quickly and easily)

In terms of migration per capita, Australia is ranked 18th ahead of Canada, the USA and most of Europe. The top ten religions in Australia account for less than 63% of the population.

This is a quick guide on the cities and how expensive a room can be.

Adelaide (cheap options available)

Ranked the 5th most liveable city in the world*, this is a compact, quiet city with great food, nice beaches and friendly people. It is easy to get around as it has very little traffic. Adelaide offers cheap flats compared to other cities. If you have a small family or just like a quieter city, this would be perfect for you.

Brisbane (rooms are cheaper than Melbourne and Sydney)

This city has a fantastic climate. In fact it has the best weather in the country (short mild winters and longer summers), a modern look, and all the cultural activities you would want. Brisbane is also ranked in the top 20 of student cities*.  Brisbane has had huge developments in the past years. Finding cheap rooms in Brissy is easier than Syd and Melbs. You can access great beaches an hour or so drive north and south (unfortunately, Brisbane city doesn’t have beaches).

Canberra (good flats can be found close to the universities)

This is one of the few major cities in Australia that is not coastal.  Centered around a beautiful lake, the city is the country’s capital and therefore the political centre. The city is unique in that it was mapped out and purpose built to be the nation’s capital. It also has very good education institutions and is a student city. For some reason rooms in Canberra tends to be more expensive than options in Brisbane. However, you will be able to still find cheap student flats and rooms (something that doesn’t really happen in Sydney).

Gold Coast (GC) (flats can be found even close to the beach!)

Experience fun, sun and a relaxed lifestyle in this beach city. The GC (as it is known) is naturally rich with beaches, canals, rainforest and mountains. One hour drive south you arrive to Byron Bay which is a holiday paradise. Drive an hour north and you are in Brisbane City. Finding rooms in the Gold Coast is easier compared to the other big cities (for example: you will be able to find cheap options that are next to the beach)

Hobart

Tasmania is a small island off Australia’s mainland with Hobart as its capital. Hobart is considered for some the food capital of Australia (DELICIOUS FOOD!!!). You get great fresh produce and the best seafood you’ll ever taste. It has beautiful hinterland areas and fantastic sceneries. Hobart is also cheaper than the main big cities. You will be able to find options here thus it could be a good option to study.

Melbourne (options are limited. Ask for help!)

Melbourne is, for the fifth consecutive year the most liveable city in the world*. It is also currently ranked as the 2nd best student city in the world*.  You can only image how GREAT this city is. Room options in Melbourne is a bit more challenging than all the previous cities we mentioned already. This is why it is important that you get a professional to help you when trying to find cheap rooms in this city (and avoid getting stressed!).

Perth (rooms in this city can be found close to the universities).

Perth is the biggest city in Western Australia. It is an open expansive city that has a relaxed lifestyle. Perth has great beaches where you can surf nonstop. Perth is also the most isolated city in the world! Having said this, Perth is well connected to most cities in Asia. Finding rooms in Perth has become easier in the last couple of years due to the mining boom ending.

Sydney (finding cheap options is a real challenge).

Sydney is the biggest city in Australia. It has the most beautiful harbour in the world and it is currently the 7th most liveable city in the world*. It is also ranked as the 4th best student city in the world*. Sydney has more than 70 beaches. It has parks everywhere and beautiful walks everywhere. This makes Sydney a very popular choice for students. Finding affordable options in Sydney is very challenging. You need to be aware that it will be expensive and that you are far better using a professional to help you find something that suits your needs.

Want to know how to find a room easily?