So, you’ve made it to the University of Melbourne—amazing! Getting that offer letter is a moment to remember. But now comes the real question: where are you going to live?
If you’re moving to a new city, or even a new country, figuring out your living situation can feel overwhelming. One of the first big choices most students face is whether to live on-campus or find a place off-campus. And while both options have their own charm, they offer very different experiences.
Let’s break it down, student to student—no jargon, no fluff—just real talk about what it’s like to live in and around the University of Melbourne.
What’s It Really Like Living On-Campus?
In first year, on-campus living is the dream: you live where you study, no commute, and there’s always someone around to grab food or complain about lectures with. And to be fair, it has its moments.
You wake up 15 minutes before class and still make it. You bump into people all the time, which is great when you’re new and trying to make friends. Plus, there’s usually free stuff—pizza nights, movie screenings, awkward trivia evenings.
The ups:
- You’re literally steps away from your lecture halls.
- Meals are often included (read: you don’t need to cook).
- There’s security and support 24/7.
- It’s kind of impossible to feel too
The not-so-great bits:
- It’s And sometimes doesn’t feel like it’s worth that much.
- You may end up sharing a room or a bathroom. It’s hit or miss.
- Curfews in some colleges? Still a thing.
- Living where you study can get mentally exhausting. You don’t really “leave” uni.
And Off-Campus? What’s That Like?
Students move to off-campus after first year, mostly because they want more space, more freedom, and honestly—cheaper rent.
You get to choose your space. You might live with friends, or go solo. You figure out your own routine. You learn to budget (sometimes poorly, but you learn). You become a full-blown adult by force.
The good stuff:
- Total independence. You live on your terms.
- More affordable if you split rent or find a good deal.
- You’re not always around uni people, which is healthier than you think.
- You actually get to know Melbourne. Like, the real Melbourne—not just the campus bubble.
The challenges:
- You cook. You clean. You fix things (or cry and call someone who can).
- Rent. Groceries. Everything adds up.
- Finding a place is stressful, especially when you’re overseas.
But here’s the thing: off-campus doesn’t mean being on your own. Services like University Living exist for this exact reason. They have verified listings, reviews, and someone to call when you panic about contracts.
There’s plenty of Melbourne student accommodation within walking or tram distance from the university. Think Carlton, Brunswick, North Melbourne—places where students actually live and hang out. You’re close enough to campus but far enough to feel like a functioning adult.
What’s Better for You?
Honestly? Depends on where you are in your journey.
If you’re new to the city, unsure of how stuff works, and want an easy transition, on-campus is a safe bet. You’ll meet people faster, settle in quicker, and have less to manage up front.
But if you’re craving freedom, want to cook your own meals (or live off frozen dumplings and toast), and are okay figuring things out as you go, off-campus will feel more like home.
Some students start on campus and move off later once they’ve got their bearings. Others dive straight into off-campus life and never look back. Both are valid. Both come with stories you’ll laugh about later.
Let’s Talk Cost, Because It Matters
Melbourne isn’t cheap. But it’s manageable if you’re smart about it.
On-campus: You’ll probably pay more upfront, but it includes meals, utilities, and social events.
Off-campus: Cheaper weekly rent (if you share), but you cover bills, groceries, transport.
Quick heads-up—student accommodation near University of Melbourne isn’t hard to find, but good ones get snatched up fast. Whether it’s a shared apartment or a private studio, book early, read the fine print, and don’t wire money to a stranger on Facebook Marketplace. Just don’t.
Final Thought: What’s the Vibe You Want?
When you study in Melbourne, where you live shapes your experience just as much as what you study. On-campus feels like a bubble. Safe, social, structured. Off-campus feels like real life—messy, rewarding, a little chaotic. You’ll grow in both.
Take your time. Ask people who’ve lived both. Look beyond the pictures. Visit if you can. And trust your gut. This isn’t just about a bed and four walls. It’s where you’ll laugh, cry, burn toast at 2 a.m., panic before exams, and maybe fall in love with the city.
So, choose a place that feels like a soft landing—not just a room.