4 Affordable Cities to Study in Australia
- Study Australia Tips | Study Australia Tips
- February 5, 2026
- One Education
Australia is one of the most popular study destinations for international students worldwide, including Thai students. With world-class education standards, globally recognized degrees, and the ability for international students to work part-time legally while studying, Australia continues to attract students seeking quality education and global opportunities. However, one of the biggest concerns before deciding to study in Australia is the cost of living. In this article, One Education introduces affordable cities in Australia that are cost-effective, safe, student-friendly, and ideal for budgeting.
Why Choosing the Right City in Australia Matters?
The city you choose to study in Australia has a direct impact on your monthly expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, part-time job opportunities, overall quality of life, and mental well-being.
Many students choose a university first and only think about living costs later. This often leads to unexpected financial stress. Choosing an affordable city in Australia from the beginning helps you:
- Spend less on monthly living expenses
- Have extra budget for travel or skill development
- Graduate with less financial pressure and more peace of mind
Top Affordable Cities to Study in Australia
1. Adelaide: The Most Affordable City for Students in Australia

Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is often ranked as the most affordable city to study in Australia by multiple education ranking agencies.
The uniqueness of Adelaide:
- Calm, uncrowded city with convenient transportation
- Safe and student-friendly environment
- A balanced international student community
- Plenty of part-time jobs in cafés, restaurants, and service industries
Recommended universities in Adelaide:
- Adelaide University – A Group of Eight university and Top 100 globally, well known for Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, Computer Science, and Business
- Flinders University – Strong in Nursing, Medicine, Clinical Health, and Archaeology
2. Hobart: Low Cost of Living with Beautiful Nature

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, an island state in southern Australia. It’s an excellent choice for students who prefer a quiet lifestyle, lower rent, and natural surroundings.
The uniqueness of Hobart:
- Stunning natural environment and clean air
- Peaceful city ideal for focused study
- Friendly local community welcoming international students
Recommended university in Hobart:
- University of Tasmania (UTAS) – Well known for Marine Studies, Environmental Science, Business, and Health
🟢 Thinking about studying in Australia? Contact One Education, the official representative, for free advice and support every step of the way! Add Line: @one-edu or submit an enquiry form
3. Perth: A Major City with Reasonable Living Costs

Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is often overlooked but offers high quality of life with lower living costs than Sydney and Melbourne. It’s modern, clean, and located by the beach.
The uniqueness of Perth:
- Strong job market, especially in Engineering, IT, and Business
- Several top-ranked universities
- Warm climate and excellent outdoor lifestyle
Recommended universities in Perth:
- Curtin University – Known for Nursing, Engineering, Architecture, and Earth Science
- Edith Cowan University (ECU) – Award-winning teaching quality, practical programs in Business, Health Science, IT, and Arts
- Murdoch University – Strong in Science, Forensic Science, Law, Communication, and Psychology
- University of Western Australia (UWA) – Group of Eight and Top 100 globally, excelling in Engineering, Medicine & Health, Marine Science, and Business
4. Gold Coast: Lifestyle-Focused City with Many Part-Time Jobs

Gold Coast is a favorite among international students who want to study, work, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle. Living costs are lower than Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with abundant part-time job opportunities.
The uniqueness of Gold Coast:
- High demand for Hospitality and Tourism jobs
- Relaxed beach lifestyle
- Easy transportation and close to Brisbane
Recommended universities in Gold Coast:
- Bond University – Trimester system allows faster graduation (Bachelor’s in 2 years, Master’s in 1–1.5 years), strong in Business, Law, Film & Television, Health Science, and Tourism
- Griffith University – Well known for Hospitality & Tourism, Business, Nursing, and Environmental Science
| City | City Type | Climate | Estimated Living Cost (AUD/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adelaide | Medium-sized, calm | Hot dry summers, mild winters | AUD 1,400 – 2,800 |
| Hobart | Small, nature-focused | Cool, mild rain year-round | AUD 1,200 – 2,500 |
| Perth | Large western city | Warm to hot, winter rain | AUD 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Gold Coast | Coastal lifestyle city | Warm, humid summers | AUD 1,100 – 1,800 |
Note: Costs are estimates and may vary depending on accommodation type, location, and personal lifestyle.
Interested in studying in Australia?
For more information and assistance with the application process, you can contact One Education, an official representative of Australian Universities. We offer free consultation and support throughout your application journey.
Add our Line official account: @one-edu
Submit an enquiry form. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
Call us: 02-652-0718
One Education | Study Abroad. Simplified
Follow Us
Facebook: One Education
Instagram: oneeducationthailand
Twitter: One Education
TikTok: oneeducationthailand
YouTube: One Education
Latest Blogs
4 Affordable Cities to Study in Australia Student Guide: Study in Australia for the July 2026 Intake From Gamer to Graduate: Study Game Design Degrees in the UK Myth vs Fact: What You Should Know Before Studying in the UK What Is the Russell Group? A Complete Guide for Students Planning to Study in the UKCategories
Student Diary
Study UK Tips
Study Australia Tips
Popular Courses
Scholarships
English Promotions

