Looking to save money while studying in Australia? In 2025, Adelaide, Hobart, Brisbane, Perth, and the Gold Coast top the list of most affordable cities for international students. These cities offer lower rent, good part-time work options, and access to high-quality universities. Most are also regional cities, which means extra PR benefits after graduation.

Studying in Australia comes with a price tag. Between tuition fees, rent, transportation, and day-to-day expenses, the costs add up quickly. However, here’s the good news: not all cities in Australia will stretch your budget to the limit. Some places are far more affordable while still offering high-quality education and a great student lifestyle.
If you are planning to study in Australia in 2025 and cost is a major factor, this guide is for you.
Why Choose an Affordable City in Australia?
Studying abroad is a huge financial decision. Picking a budget-friendly city doesn’t save you money. It can also reduce your stress and give you more room to explore, travel, or even save. Here’s why affordability matters:
- Lower rent and utility bills
- Cheaper groceries and public transport
- Easier to manage part-time job earnings
- Often qualify for extra PR (Permanent Residency) points if in regional zones
Top Affordable Cities in Australia for International Students (2025)
Let’s break it down by city. These are the ones international students love for their cost, lifestyle, and career options.
1. Adelaide – Quiet, Affordable, and Full of Opportunity
If you are all about peace and low living costs, Adelaide is hard to beat.
Average living cost: AUD 1,600–2,000/month
Top Universities: University of Adelaide, UniSA, Flinders University
Why students like it:
- Lowest rent among major cities
- Safe and peaceful environment
- Easy-to-navigate transport system
- Part-time work in retail, hospitality, and events
- It’s a regional city = PR points!
Adelaide might not be as flashy as Sydney, but it’s perfect if you are serious about study and want to keep expenses low.
2. Brisbane – Warm Weather, Great Universities, Lower Cost Than Sydney
Brisbane strikes a nice balance. You get the perks of a metro city without the hefty price tag.
Average monthly living cost: AUD 1,800–2,400
Top Universities: University of Queensland, QUT, Griffith University
Student-friendly perks:
- Good job market for part-timers
- Year-round sunshine
- Plenty of student events and multicultural festivals
- Affordable suburbs like St Lucia and West End
- Regional benefits for PR
If you want the city experience without the city prices, Brisbane’s your place.
3. Hobart – Australia’s Best-Kept Student Secret
Not a lot of international students talk about Hobart, but those who do? They love it.
Average monthly living cost: AUD 1,500–2,000
Top University: University of Tasmania
Why it’s a great option:
- Very low cost of living
- Close-knit student communities
- Beautiful, natural surroundings
- Part-time jobs in tourism and education
- Strong PR pathways in Tasmania
For nature lovers and students looking for peace of mind, Hobart offers real value.
4. Gold Coast – Study + Surf + Save
The Gold Coast isn’t just about beaches and sun—it’s surprisingly student-friendly when it comes to living costs.
Average monthly living cost: AUD 1,800–2,300
Top Universities: Griffith (GC campus), Bond University
Why students love it:
- Surf beaches + relaxed vibe
- Affordable student apartments in suburbs like Southport
- Tourism jobs are plentiful
- Regional city = great for PR
- Year-round warm weather
Perfect for students who want both education and lifestyle.
5. Perth – West Coast Value
Perth is often overlooked, but if you want affordable living, growing job sectors, and a quality degree, it’s worth a second look.
Average monthly living cost: AUD 1,700–2,200
Top Universities: University of Western Australia, Curtin University
Why it’s affordable and attractive:
- Less competitive job market
- Affordable outer suburbs
- Part-time jobs in mining, construction, and tech
- Fewer distractions = more study time
- Qualifies as a regional area
It’s calm, coastal, and budget-friendly.
Cost Comparison Table – Affordable Cities in 2025
City | Avg. Monthly Cost (AUD) | Top Universities | Regional City | Key Advantages |
Adelaide | 1,600 – 2,000 | UniAdelaide, UniSA, Flinders | Yes | Cheapest rent, easy PR path |
Brisbane | 1,800 – 2,400 | UQ, QUT, Griffith | Yes | Warm climate, good jobs, city perks |
Hobart | 1,500 – 2,000 | University of Tasmania | Yes | Calm, nature-rich, PR advantage |
Gold Coast | 1,800 – 2,300 | Bond, Griffith (GC campus) | Yes | Beach life, part-time tourism jobs |
Perth | 1,700 – 2,200 | UWA, Curtin | Yes | Spacious, less competitive |
Conclusion
If you are moving to Australia in 2025 as an international student, living affordably doesn’t mean giving up on a great experience. Cities like Adelaide, Hobart, and Brisbane offer the lowest living costs, while still providing strong academic opportunities and welcoming communities.
Before locking in at your university, take a closer look at the city that fits your goals, lifestyle, and budget. Choosing the right city could save you thousands and give you more freedom to enjoy your study abroad journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the cheapest cities for international students in Australia?
Adelaide, Hobart, Brisbane, Perth, and the Gold Coast are among the most affordable cities in 2025.
2. Is Adelaide a good choice for budget-conscious international students?
Yes, Adelaide offers the lowest rent among metro cities and is known for its safe, peaceful environment.
3. How much does it cost to live in Hobart as a student?
Hobart’s average monthly living cost is between AUD 1,500 to 2,000 in 2025.
4. Which city in Australia has the lowest rent for students?
Adelaide currently offers the lowest student rent, making it a popular choice for affordability.
5. Are scholarships available in affordable cities?
Many universities in regional cities offer international scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition.
6. Which Australian cities are both affordable and vibrant?
Brisbane and Gold Coast strike a great balance between affordability and lifestyle.
7. What are the best suburbs to live in for cheap student housing?
St Lucia (Brisbane), Mawson Lakes (Adelaide), and Southport (Gold Coast) are popular for student rentals.
8. Which city has the most affordable public transport?
Adelaide and Perth offer student concession cards that make commuting budget-friendly.
9. How do I find affordable accommodation in Australia as a student?
Start early, use university housing portals, and explore shared rentals in student suburbs.
10. Can I apply for PR directly after studying in a regional city?
Yes, completing studies in regional areas can make you eligible for region-specific PR streams.