Student-friendly suburbs near UNSW College

Deciding where to live as a student is an exciting step, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. Sydney is a large and vibrant city, home to many diverse suburbs, each with its own unique character and lifestyle. The good news is that there are plenty of student-friendly areas located close to UNSW College and UNSW, along with a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, lifestyles and preferences.

Whether you are an international student experiencing Sydney for the first time or a domestic student starting your university journey, this guide will introduce you to some of the most popular suburbs near the UNSW College and UNSW Kensington campus.

Great for: Convenience

If being close to campus is your priority, Kensington is an ideal choice. With UNSW College's campus located in the heart of the suburb, you can walk to class in just minutes. You will find a range of student accommodation options, from on-campus housing to nearby apartments, as well as easy access to cafés, gyms, and local supermarkets.

While Kensington can be more expensive than some other areas, you may save on travel costs and time. The suburb is also known for being safe and well-connected, with Centennial Park and Kensington Park close by, offering great spaces to relax and unwind.

Great for: Being well-connected

Neighbouring Kensington, Randwick is another popular choice among students. The suburb offers a vibrant mix of city convenience and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, making it ideal for those who enjoy an active and social lifestyle.

You will be close to a variety of shops at Royal Randwick Shopping Centre, as well as entertainment at The Ritz, a much-loved art deco cinema. The area is also well serviced by public transport and features a wide selection of cafés and restaurants to explore.

As an added bonus, Coogee Beach is just a short bus ride away, giving you easy access to Sydney’s iconic coastline.

Great for: Diverse food and culture

Located just south of UNSW College, Kingsford is a popular suburb among students, known for being more affordable while still close to campus. It is especially recognised for its vibrant multicultural community, which is reflected in the wide variety of delicious and budget-friendly eateries in the area.

Kingsford also offers convenient bus connections to UNSW College and the city, along with access to fresh food markets and a range of student-friendly services.

This suburb is a practical choice if you are looking to save on rent while staying close to campus and essential amenities.

Great for: Proximity to the beach

If living by the beach in Sydney appeals to you, Coogee is well worth exploring. Just a 10–15 minute bus ride from UNSW, you will find sandy beaches, ocean pools and scenic coastal walks, offering a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Beyond the beach, Coogee features a wide range of popular eateries, cafés and pubs, along with a vibrant social scene.

While rental prices tend to be higher in this area, options such as flat or house sharing can make it more affordable. It is an excellent choice if you enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Great for: Bigger living spaces

Located a little further south, Maroubra is a more affordable coastal suburb than Coogee, often offering larger houses and apartments. The area combines lively shopping precincts with quieter residential streets, making it a well-balanced place to live.

Maroubra is also home to a wide sandy beach that is popular with surfers, adding to its relaxed coastal appeal. For shopping convenience, Westfield Eastgardens is close by, and the commute to UNSW is approximately 20 minutes by bus.

This suburb is a great option if you are looking for a less crowded coastal lifestyle with more space and comparatively lower rent.

Great for: Inner city living

If you are keen to live close to the heart of the city, Surry Hills is a stylish and central suburb located around 20 minutes from UNSW College by bus or light rail. Living here gives you access to excellent shopping, cultural events, galleries, and a wide range of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants.

With Central Station nearby, you can easily explore the rest of Sydney and beyond. While Surry Hills tends to be more expensive, many students choose to share accommodation to make living here more affordable.