Australia has become an absolute powerhouse for international education, with over 600,000 international students currently studying across the country. New South Wales, where Sydney is located, attracts the largest portion of these international students, with over 240,000 choosing to study there. With nearly 40,000 international students currently living and studying in Sydney, the city has established itself as a major education hub.
Sydney consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities, offering international students beautiful weather year-round, excellent education standards, and a vibrant multicultural community. With over 250 languages spoken and more than a million immigrants calling Sydney home, international students feel welcomed and at home.
Despite Australia recently introducing a cap on the number of new international students, UK students find Australia an increasingly attractive destination, with universities like the University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and University of New South Wales drawing students from across Britain.
Whether you’re looking for student accommodation in Sydney or planning your academic journey, the city provides excellent support systems for international students. Universities across Sydney offer comprehensive support services including dedicated international student advisors, orientation programs, academic support centres, and mental health services specifically designed for students studying far from home. Many institutions also provide practical assistance with accommodation searches and visa guidance .
Current students in Sydney won’t be surprised by this popularity; we all know just how incredible the city is for students, with stunning beaches and harbour views, world-class universities, and an amazing diversity of food and entertainment to cater to all tastes and budgets. From the iconic Opera House to the bustling laneways, there’s something happening every day (and night) of the week.
That diversity also extends to the city’s neighbourhoods, with prospective students having a vast array of options when it comes to deciding where to settle down and study. From bustling city apartments to shared houses in bohemian suburbs, the student accommodation options in Sydney are as varied as the students themselves. But with options comes a paradox; that of choice. We’re here to help with that; here are the best neighbourhoods for students in Sydney.
Ideal For Bohemian Spirits: Newtown
Newtown is Sydney’s bohemian capital, brimming with creative professionals just 4km west of the city centre. Known for its diverse community and lively atmosphere, this eclectic Inner West suburb is home to various green spaces and award-winning restaurants. The University of Sydney is just up the road from Newtown, and students make up a big part of the area’s identity.
King Street is famous for its densely clustered offering of bars, restaurants, cafés and pubs, from cheap student dining offering pad Thai for less than fifteen bucks, to high-end restaurants from celebrated chefs. The area is easily accessible, with just a 10-minute train ride from the city centre to Newtown, Erskineville or Macdonaldtown stations.
Students love Newtown for its affordable late-night eats, with many venues staying open until the early hours to cater to the post-study crowd. The neighbourhood is also home to several excellent coffee shops perfect for laptop sessions, including some that offer student discounts. Newtown’s famous vintage shops along King Street provide budget-friendly fashion finds, whilst the area’s numerous bookshops (both new and second-hand) are perfect for academic browsing and study materials.
- Eat: Café Paci — Run by talented Finnish chef Pasi Petänen, this King Street restaurant serves innovative, clever dishes and is a must-visit in Sydney. Thai Pothong is an Inner West institution dishing up some of the best Thai food in Sydney.
- Drink: Earl’s Juke Joint — This low-lit bar serves some of the best cocktails in Newtown with expertly made drinks. The Courthouse Hotel boasts a fantastic sunny beer garden and is hard to beat for traditional pub atmosphere.
- Dance: Pleasure Club — The first Newtown bar granted regulatory approval to trade until 4am seven days a week in more than 100 years, this purple-hued, disco-ball-lit basement venue encourages hedonism in all its forms.
- Do: Take a self-guided walking tour of the area’s street art, or break out of a vintage escape room at The Cipher Room. Visit The Vanguard, an intimate multi-purpose live music venue hosting everything from tribute bands and jazz to drag balls and burlesque shows.
- Walk: Camperdown Memorial Rest Park — Perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll. Wander down King Street to explore the endless array of vintage shops, independent boutiques, and street art.
Ideal For Creatives: Surry Hills
Surry Hills is often seen as the best area to stay in Sydney, located on the east side of the city’s central business district with a friendly energy that draws in students who enjoy arts, delicious food, and fun weekend markets. This leafy and buzzing neighbourhood might just have the very best of what Sydney has to offer in terms of eating and drinking, with each price point and palate catered to.
It’s close to major campuses like the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the University of Sydney, with bus or train connections getting you to class in under 15 minutes. The streets are lined with vintage shops, art galleries, and quirky eateries, with local restaurants and pubs almost always hiring for part-time work.
The neighbourhood is particularly popular with creative students, thanks to its abundance of co-working spaces and study-friendly cafés that welcome laptop users. Many venues offer student meal deals during lunch hours, and the area’s weekend markets provide affordable fresh produce for budget-conscious students. Surry Hills is also home to several independent cinemas and live music venues that regularly offer student discounts, making it perfect for affordable entertainment after exams.
- Eat: Spice I Am — For two decades, this literal hole in the wall has been serving up ferociously fiery som tum, tom kha and authentic Thai cooking. Arthur — One of the best restaurants in Sydney, offering polished set menus with astonishing levels of care.
- Drink: The Cricketers Arms — Arguably Surry Hills’ most classic Aussie pub, with charm that comes from hardly changing the bottom floor and beer garden in decades. Gildas — Lennox Hastie’s wine bar with marble-topped tables and brass finishings, offering $12 Martinis during Golden Hour.
- Dance: Forrester’s — This 100-year-old pub is split into multiple distinct spaces perfect for trivia nights or bottomless rosé lunches.
- Do: Explore the abundance of art galleries and vintage shops along Crown Street. Visit some of the city’s coolest music venues for live gigs.
- Walk: Wander through the area during weekend markets or simply enjoy the friendly, artsy atmosphere of the neighbourhood.
Read: Moving to Australia from the UK: What jobs are in demand Down Under?
Ideal For Night Owls: Darlinghurst
Darlinghurst is the perfect neighbourhood for students seeking a lively atmosphere and bustling nightlife, attracting those who want a good balance between studies and social life. This area that was once riddled with crime has become a hotspot filled with bars, small art galleries, high-end furniture shops and a very respectable theatre, with Oxford Street being one of the famous streets filled with various things to do.
Its proximity to the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and other universities makes it convenient for daily travel, with just a short commute to major campuses. Darlinghurst is the hub of Sydney’s LGBTQI+ community, but there’s plenty more to the neighbourhood than just gay bars.
Students particularly enjoy the area’s late-night dining scene, with many restaurants and takeaway spots catering to post-study hunger pangs. The neighbourhood hosts regular student nights at various venues, offering discounted drinks and entry fees. Darlinghurst is also home to several excellent study spots, including some late night cafe spots nearby State Library of NSW. The area’s proximity to Hyde Park provides a perfect outdoor study space during pleasant weather, whilst the Museum of Australian Design and other cultural institutions offer student membership rates.
- Eat: Browse the inventive cafés and independent retailers along Oxford Street. The neighbourhood offers a colourful collection of dining options from casual to upscale.
- Drink: Oxford Street is the place to be for a fun night out, with Sydney’s best small bars and late-night eateries.
- Dance: The area comes alive after dark with numerous clubs and venues catering to diverse musical tastes and communities.
- Do: Explore the small art galleries and high-end furniture shops that give Darlinghurst its sophisticated edge.
- Walk: Stroll down Oxford Street to experience the vibrant street life and rainbow crossing.
Read: 6 essential tips if you’re moving to Sydney
Ideal For Budget-Conscious Students: Redfern
Redfern is a fantastic spot for students on a budget, offering affordable housing options perfect for student living. One of the most culturally rich neighbourhoods in Sydney, the second you enter Redfern, you’ll feel the creativity ooze out in the streets filled with various art pieces and murals. With close proximity to the University of Sydney, Redfern is a convenient choice for students.
It’s not just about affordability; the neighbourhood is buzzing with creativity, boasting a growing arts and cultural scene with galleries, theatres, and music venues. Redfern serves as a major transport hub, with Redfern Station providing excellent public transportation connections to all areas of Sydney.
Students are drawn to Redfern’s authentic community feel and the numerous volunteer opportunities available through local community centres and Indigenous cultural organisations. The area offers excellent value for money when it comes to food, with family-run eateries serving generous portions at student-friendly prices.
Redfern is also becoming known for its emerging live music scene, with several small venues offering regular open mic nights and student band showcases. The neighbourhood’s industrial spaces have been converted into artist studios and creative workshops, many of which offer affordable classes and workshops for students interested in developing new skills.
- Eat: Redfern is recognised for its restaurants that constantly push the boundaries, with various traditional Australian dishes and innovative dining.
- Drink: Historic pubs blend with the area’s evolving food and drink scene, offering options for every budget.
- Dance: The area’s live music venues and cultural spaces provide entertainment throughout the week.
- Do: Explore Carriageworks, a major cultural venue hosting exhibitions and events. Discover the street art and murals that make Redfern a visual feast.
- Walk: Enjoy the picturesque parks and green spaces scattered throughout the neighbourhood.
Ideal For Art Enthusiasts: Chippendale
Chippendale has to be one of the best neighbourhoods in Sydney if you’re looking for a place where creativity oozes out from everywhere. This area is best known for its artistic flair, brought to life by many art galleries, design studios, and creative hubs scattered throughout the suburb. You’ll find various warehouses converted for commercial use and art galleries that will keep you amazed during your stay.
The great transport links with Central Station close by allow you to easily roam the city, whilst being perfectly positioned between the University of Sydney and University of Technology Sydney campuses.
Chippendale has become increasingly popular with art and design students, who appreciate the neighbourhood’s creative atmosphere and the opportunity to network with working artists and designers. Many of the local galleries offer internship opportunities and part-time work for students studying creative disciplines.
The area hosts regular art markets and pop-up exhibitions, providing students with affordable cultural entertainment and the chance to showcase their own work. Students also enjoy the neighbourhood’s growing café culture, with several establishments offering student discounts and laptop-friendly environments perfect for group projects and study sessions.
- Eat: Sample the innovative dining scene in converted warehouse spaces and artisanal eateries.
- Drink: Enjoy craft breweries and wine bars nestled among the galleries and studios.
- Dance: The creative community hosts regular events and pop-up parties in unique warehouse venues.
- Do: Explore the numerous art galleries and converted warehouses showcasing contemporary Australian art.
- Walk: Wander through the neighbourhood discovering street art and creative installations around every corner.
Ideal For Convenience: Ultimo
If you want to study in Sydney without spending much time commuting, Ultimo might be your ideal pick. Located near Darling Harbour and the CBD, Ultimo is home to the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and TAFE NSW, meaning you could be living just a short stroll away from your lecture halls or library.
It’s also close to Central Station, making it easy to reach other parts of the city, whilst Ultimo has one of the highest concentrations of students in Sydney. The area highlights include its modern feel and proximity to Darling Harbour for weekend enjoyment.
Being so close to UTS campus means students can easily pop back to their accommodation between classes, making it ideal for those with irregular timetables. The neighbourhood offers numerous study spaces, including the impressive UTS Library and several 24-hour cafés that cater to students burning the midnight oil. Ultimo’s proximity to Chinatown provides access to affordable, authentic Asian cuisine that’s perfect for students on a budget.
The area also benefits from excellent sporting facilities, with the nearby fitness centres and swimming pools offering student membership rates, whilst Darling Harbour’s recreational areas provide the perfect spot for stress-relief walks between study sessions.
- Eat: Take advantage of the diverse dining options around Darling Harbour and the nearby Chinatown precinct.
- Drink: Enjoy harbourside bars and pubs with stunning water views.
- Dance: The proximity to the city centre means easy access to Sydney’s main nightlife districts.
- Do: Spend weekends exploring Darling Harbour’s attractions and waterfront activities.
- Walk: Stroll along the harbour foreshore or through the nearby Chinese Garden of Friendship.
Ideal For A Relaxed Vibe: Glebe
Glebe is often described as a relaxed, bohemian suburb that feels like a small town and is one of the best places for students who prefer a calmer atmosphere but still want easy access to campus. The neighbourhood’s picturesque parks, such as Bicentennial Park and Wentworth Park, provide serene spaces for relaxation and study breaks.
The University of Sydney is just around the corner, with regular buses connecting you to other universities and the CBD. Glebe’s dining scene is diverse, offering a plethora of international cuisines, whilst the famous Glebe Markets on weekends provide a vibrant space to explore.
Students particularly love Glebe for its relaxed pace and the abundance of second-hand bookshops perfect for finding affordable textbooks and leisure reading. The neighbourhood’s numerous cafés offer excellent study environments, with many providing free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating for long study sessions.
Glebe’s community feel means many local businesses offer student discounts, and the weekend markets are perfect for finding unique vintage clothes and handmade items on a budget. The area’s parks provide excellent outdoor study spots during Sydney’s beautiful weather, whilst the nearby harbour foreshore offers jogging and cycling paths perfect for students needing a break from academic pressures.
- Eat: Experience the diverse international dining scene scattered throughout this bohemian neighbourhood.
- Drink: Enjoy the relaxed pub culture and cosy wine bars that reflect Glebe’s laid-back atmosphere.
- Dance: The area offers intimate venues and local pubs with regular live music.
- Do: Visit the famous Glebe Markets on weekends for unique finds and local crafts.
- Walk: Relax in Bicentennial Park and Wentworth Park, perfect for study breaks and recreation.
Ideal For Beach Lovers: Randwick
Randwick offers various rental options that cater to different budgets, all within a short distance from UNSW. This is considered one of the safest and best places to live near UNSW, next to supermarkets, gyms, libraries, and restaurants offering Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Indian cuisine.
The area provides easy access to some of Sydney’s most famous beaches, including nearby Coogee and Maroubra, making it perfect for students who want to balance study with coastal lifestyle.
Randwick is particularly appealing to students who enjoy an active lifestyle, with excellent sporting facilities including the nearby Centennial Parklands perfect for jogging, cycling, and outdoor group fitness activities. The neighbourhood’s proximity to the Royal Randwick Racecourse means students can often find casual work during racing events and major festivals. Many of the local cafés and restaurants are accustomed to the student population and offer meal deals and student discounts, particularly around exam periods.
The area’s beaches provide the perfect stress-relief destination, with many students forming study groups that combine beach trips with outdoor revision sessions. Randwick’s multicultural dining scene also means students can easily find affordable, authentic food from their home countries.
- Eat: Enjoy the variety of Asian restaurants and cafés that cater to the large student population.
- Drink: Local pubs and bars provide relaxed environments for students to socialise.
- Dance: Beach culture means regular parties and events, especially during summer months.
- Do: Take advantage of the proximity to gyms, libraries, and shopping centres.
- Walk: Explore the tree-lined streets and parks, or head to nearby Coogee and Maroubra beaches for coastal walks.
The Bottom Line
Sydney’s diverse neighbourhoods each offer something unique for students, whatever their interests and budget. From the bohemian creativity of Newtown to the convenient city living of Ultimo, there’s a perfect patch of this stunning harbour city for every type of student. If you’re thinking of visiting before you decide on studying in Sydney, check out our guide on how to spend 48 hours in Harbour City…
