Moving to Adelaide for study is exciting. Finding somewhere to live? Not always.
Rental listings can disappear in minutes. Accommodation options can blur together fast. And figuring out which suburb is actually close to campus can feel like a guessing game.
That’s where our guide to student accommodation in Adelaide comes in. We’ll break down the types of student accommodation in Adelaide. We’ll spotlight the best areas for each of the top universities. And we’ll help you choose a place that suits your lifestyle, budget, and study schedule.
Adelaide quietly punches above its weight as a student city.
It’s smaller, more affordable, and easier to get around than many other Australian capitals. That means shorter commutes, lower rent, and more time and money for things beyond studying.
Students love Adelaide for its relaxed pace, strong cafe culture, festivals, beaches, and green spaces. You can finish a lecture and be at the beach or a park within half an hour. For many students, that balance makes a big difference.
Adelaide is also one of the more budget-friendly capital cities for student accommodation, which is why it continues to attract both domestic and international students.
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Planning your study and student life in Adelaide? Start here with the city’s leading universities.
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the main universities, what they’re known for, and where to find them:
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University |
What it’s known for |
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Newly merged institution (from the University of Adelaide and UniSA). Offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across city and suburban campuses. |
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Public research uni based in Bedford Park and other sites. Known for health, science, arts, and humanities. |
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Private university with an Adelaide campus, focused on industry‑aligned and career‑ready courses. |
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Regional university with an Adelaide campus offering flexible and vocationally focused programs. |
Adelaide has a student housing option to suit pretty much every style, budget, and vibe. Here’s a friendly breakdown so you can figure out what fits you best.
What it is: Living on or right next to campus. Rooms usually come furnished, and some include meals or shared kitchens.
Who it’s good for: Perfect for first-year students or exchange students who want to be close to lectures, libraries, and campus life.
Rough cost: AU$350, often including bills and internet.
Why it’s great: Super convenient, built-in social life, no stress about bills, and you’ll meet people quickly.
Things to watch out for: Less privacy than other options, can be a bit pricier, and spots fill fast.
What it is: Structured, community-focused housing linked to certain campuses. You usually get meals, study spaces, and organised social events.
Who it’s good for: Students who want a strong sense of community and like the idea of a structured living environment.
Rough cost: AU$550 per week, with some including meals.
Why it’s great: Supportive, social, and easier to settle into student life.
Things to watch out for: Less independence, house rules apply, and usually more routine than living in private rentals.
What it is: Renting a room in a house or apartment with other students or young people. You share kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.
Who it’s good for: Students wanting to save money while still enjoying a social, independent lifestyle.
Rough cost: AU$200 to AU$280 per week, depending on location and housemates.
Why it’s great: Cheaper than renting an entire place, more freedom than on-campus housing, and you get instant housemates.
Things to watch out for: You’re responsible for bills, cleaning, and making house dynamics work. Finding compatible housemates is key.
What it is: Living with a local family in their home. You usually get your own room, and meals are often included.
Who it’s good for: International students or anyone who wants to experience Adelaide life with a supportive, welcoming household.
Rough cost: Around AU$400 per week, often including meals and some utilities.
Why it’s great: Gives you a taste of Australian family life, support for day-to-day living, and built-in social interaction. Perfect for settling into a new city and culture.
Things to watch out for: Less independence than other options, and you need to follow house rules. It’s not the best fit if you want complete privacy or a fully flexible lifestyle
What it is: Renting your own studio or one-bedroom apartment. Full privacy and freedom to live your way.
Who it’s good for: Postgrad students or anyone who really values their own space and quiet study time.
Rough cost: AU$500 per week, depending on location and facilities.
Why it’s great: Total independence, full control over your space, and a peaceful study environment.
Things to watch out for: Usually the most expensive option, all bills fall on you, and it can feel a bit lonely if you like social living.
Where you live can make a big difference to your uni experience. Adelaide is compact, easy to get around, and each area has its own vibe. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular spots for students:
Right in the heart of the city, this is perfect if you want to be close to lectures, libraries, cafés, and nightlife. On-campus residences and PBSA options are plentiful, and commuting is a breeze.
Best for: Students who love city life, short walks to campus, and being in the middle of the action.
A leafy, quieter suburb just north of the city. Easy access to the CBD and North Terrace campus, with lots of cafés, parks, and boutique shops nearby.
Best for: Students who want a calmer vibe while still being close to uni and the city.
Inner suburbs with a mix of shared houses and private rentals. Affordable, well-connected by public transport, and popular with students at Adelaide University and Flinders.
Best for: Budget-conscious students who want a short commute and easy access to supermarkets and cafés.
Ideal for former UniSA (now Adelaide University) students. There are modern apartments, transport links to the city, and quiet suburban streets.
Best for: Students who prefer a suburban setting with a mix of PBSA and private rental options.
Close to Flinders University, these areas are perfect for students who want to live near campus without paying city prices. You’ll find shared rentals, PBSA, and a quieter lifestyle.
Best for: Flinders students who want convenience, affordability, and short commutes.
Suburbs like Norwood, Kent Town, and Prospect are popular with students looking for a balance of city access, leafy streets, and trendy cafés or bars. Public transport makes getting to campus easy.
Best for: Students who want a mix of social life, study-friendly spaces, and a slightly more relaxed neighbourhood vibe.
Student accommodation in Adelaide can be found mostly online, either through the university’s official website or through external listings.
Adelaide University managed student accommodation overview: Central page linking all official university‑operated student accommodation options, including the above.
Adelaide University Village: Large uni‑managed residence near Central Market and Chinatown, with a social student community.
Mattanya Student Residences: Comfortable, independent shared houses a short walk from campuses.
Roseworthy Residential College: On‑campus living for students at the Roseworthy rural campus.
Flinders Living on‑campus accommodation: Includes University Hall and Deirdre Jordan Village.
St Ann’s College: Independent college with community events and support.
Lincoln College: Community‑focused residential college.
St Mark’s College: Well‑known college in North Adelaide.
Aquinas College: Another trusted North Adelaide residential college.
Flatmates.com.au: Search for Adelaide share housing. Use relevant search filters to browse rooms and shared houses near campus.
realestate.com.au: Student share listings. Search for Adelaide rooms and share accommodation.
Domain share house listings: Rooms and houses to share across Adelaide.
University of Adelaide homestay accommodation: Program through the English Language Centre (limited availability for specific students).
Eynesbury College homestay accommodation: Connected to Adelaide University
Australian Homestay Network: Widely used placement service for students across Australia (including Adelaide).
Flinders University homestay accommodation: Official Flinders site notes homestay options through the network.
Once you’ve found your perfect place, the next big step is moving in. Moving day doesn’t have to be stressful, even if you’re juggling study, packing, and work. Upmove helps students easily book trusted Adelaide removalists, get upfront quotes, and find a service that suits their budget and schedule.
Whether you’re heading into your first shared house, on‑campus accommodation, or private apartment, Upmove takes the guesswork out of organising a mover so you can focus on settling in, exploring the city, and focusing on what matters most.
Upmove is Australia’s trusted choice for removalist and moving company services, helping thousands of customers move homes, furniture, cars, motorcycles, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services across Australia. Our focus has always been on making moving simple and stress-free — from booking experienced removalists to completing your delivery with care. With Upmove, you get professional service, fixed prices, and peace of mind on every move.
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