Adelaide Student Guide

Affordable and easy-going — wine regions at your doorstep

Adelaide is often overlooked but offers great value for students. It's the most affordable major city, has excellent wine regions nearby, and is easy to navigate. The city has a strong international student support system and offers additional points for skilled migration for studying in a regional area. It's perfect if you want a high quality of life without the big-city price tag.

Cost of living

• Rent: $170-280/week for a room in a sharehouse
• Groceries: $70-100/week
• Transport: $35-55/week with Metro Card
• Utilities: $20-35/week

Universities

• University of Adelaide
• University of South Australia
• Flinders University
• Torrens University

Popular student suburbs

• North Adelaide — Close to UniAdelaide, historic, parks
• Mawson Lakes — UniSA campus, purpose-built, affordable
• Glenelg — Beach suburb, tram to city, tourist-friendly
• Adelaide CBD — Compact, walkable, easy access to everything
• Bedford Park — Near Flinders University, quiet, affordable
• Prospect — Trendy, good cafes, cycling distance to city

Pros

• Most affordable major city
• Regional migration bonus points
• World-class wine regions nearby
• Compact and easy to navigate
• Strong student support services

Cons

• Smaller job market
• Less nightlife and events
• Can feel quiet compared to larger cities
• Hot, dry summers