Melbourne is one of those cities that feels like it was built for students. Every suburb has its own vibe, its own rhythm, and its own fan club. Some places are buzzing with nightlife, others feel like little villages and a few are basically extensions of the campus itself. The trick is picking that one student accommodation in Melbourne that fits your lifestyle. Let’s dive into the seven suburbs students rave about (and why you might end up loving them too).


1. Carlton - Why is it the go-to for students?

Carlton is almost synonymous with student life. If you are at the University of Melbourne or RMIT, you can roll out of bed and be in class within minutes. Beyond location, its rich in culture. Italian cafés on every corner, leafy boulevards and historic terraces.

Highlights:

• Walkable to the Uni of Melbourne and RMIT
• Lygon Street’s Italian food (pasta, pizza, gelato. It’s endless)
• Quiet libraries and buzzing study cafés
• Carlton Gardens for outdoor study sessions or picnics

It’s busy, it’s academic but it also feels like home when you are far from one.


2. Fitzroy - What makes it so unique?

If Melbourne had a poster child for creativity, it would be Fitzroy. Graffiti-covered laneways, rooftop bars and music that spills into the streets. It’s a suburb with soul. Rents are on the higher side but the lifestyle pays for itself if you are into art, music or simply being around people who thrive on expression.

Highlights:

• Vintage and thrift shops on Brunswick Street
• Rooftop bars perfect for student nights out
• Community events and weekend markets
• A short tram ride drops you in the CBD

It’s not just where you live, it’s where your Instagram feed will come alive.


3. Brunswick - Is it budget-friendly?

Brunswick is where students head when they want value for money without giving up culture. It’s famous for Sydney Road, a stretch that feels like a food passport. Rent is more reasonable than in the inner city and the student energy is real.

Highlights:

• Lebanese bakeries, Turkish kebabs, Italian delis; you name it
• Affordable rentals compared to Fitzroy or Carlton
• Reliable tram and train links to the city
• Strong multicultural community vibe

It’s the kind of place where you will find both a cheap late-night snack and a local band playing down the road.


4. Southbank - Is it too fancy for students?

Southbank can look intimidating with its sleek high-rises, but don’t let that fool you. Students do live here, especially those who love being surrounded by Melbourne’s arts and culture scene.

Highlights:

• National Gallery of Victoria and Arts Centre at your doorstep
• Walkable to many city-based universities
• Riverside views and modern apartments
• Restaurants and entertainment everywhere

It’s pricier, sure. But if you are a theatre buff or someone who loves city lights, Southbank will inspire you daily.


5. Footscray - Why is everyone talking about it now?

Footscray is one of Melbourne’s fastest-rising suburbs, and students have definitely noticed. It’s friendly, diverse and won’t drain your wallet. Plus, the food? Legendary.

Highlights:

• Authentic Vietnamese food and buzzing local markets
• Cheaper rent than inner-city suburbs
• Only 15 minutes into the CBD by train
• Home to Victoria University’s main campus

Its one of those suburbs where community matters. You will feel welcome from day one.


6. St Kilda - Is it all about the beach?

Yes, but also no. St Kilda is a magnet for students who want sand, sea and fun in equal measure. Imagine finishing an assignment and celebrating with a sunset walk by the water.

Highlights:

• St Kilda Beach = instant stress relief
• Bars, live music venues and cafés everywhere
• Luna Park for weekend rides and nostalgia
• Trams connect you straight into the city

It’s beachy, social, and buzzing. Perfect if you are not into quiet suburbs.


7. Hawthorn - What’s the student life like?

Hawthorn is all about balance. Its quieter than Fitzroy but far from boring, thanks to Glenferrie Road and the big student presence from Swinburne University.

Highlights:

• Glenferrie Road packed with affordable cafés and eateries
• Mix of heritage homes and sleek new apartments
• Relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a student crowd
• Easy transport options to the CBD

Think of it as the sweet spot between study-focused and social.

• Quick Recap: Which suburb suits your style?
• Carlton: Campus convenience + Italian food heaven
• Fitzroy: Artsy, edgy, and full of energy
• Brunswick: Affordable, multicultural and fun
• Southbank: City lights and cultural hotspots
• Footscray: Budget-friendly with community spirit
• St Kilda: Beach, bars, and buzzing student life
• Hawthorn: Balanced, cozy, and student-focused

Final Thoughts

Your suburb is not just your address. Its where you will build memories, friendships and maybe even discover your new favorite cafe or late-night food joint. Melbourne’s beauty offers something for everyone. Coastal chill, inner-city arts, multicultural eats or quiet study-friendly pockets. And if you are on the lookout for accommodation in Melbourne, starting with these seven suburbs will make the search a whole lot easier.

Oznake: student, Melbourne