Off-campus accommodation
Whether you’re new to the city or looking for your next rental, this guide has everything you need to find the perfect off-campus accommodation while you’re at UNSW.
Advice and resources for finding off-campus accommodation
UNSW Off-Campus Accommodation Support (OCAS) team helps students find safe and affordable places to live near the university.
We give advice, share useful information, and connect you with local services. Our goal is to help you settle in and feel safe and supported from your first day at UNSW.
Book an appointment
Need help with off-campus housing? Make an appointment to talk to an OCAS Advisor.
Email us
Got a question? Email us at ocas@unsw.edu.au and an accommodation specialist will reply within 2 days.
🛡️ Avoid rental scams, stay informed!
Looking for accommodation? Don’t get caught out by rental scams. Check out essential tips on how to protect yourself and spot suspicious listings.
See also
Tips to get started
- Have your budget in mind. We've organised accommodation options by budget below.
- Check the location. Use any maps app to see the distance from campus, transport options and travel times.
- Confirm what's included. Check if there are extra costs like electricity, Wi-Fi, gas etc.
- Compare. Make a short list and compare different locations, options and preferences.
- Prioritise your values and safety. You may need to sacrifice on some preferences but always make sure you will feel safe and secure.
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Looking to spend between $200–$400* per week on accommodation? Here’s where to look for low-cost living options.
*Prices marked are calculated per person and might not be the total price for the entire property.
Category Description Inclusions Provider Shared/community living Companies offer a variety of rooms at different rates. Community living offers standard-style rooms with shared facilities, such as bathrooms, kitchen and living areas. Prices depend on room inclusions (e.g. private bathroom). Rooms vary in inclusions, furnished or unfurnished. Contact the provider for full details. Usually, an all-inclusive rate to include costs of utilities (e.g. water, gas, electricity). Usually furnished. Shared flatmates Rooms available to live with flatmates. Affordable, cost-sharing option ideal for budget-conscious renters. Various options to suit different budgets. Check property profiles for inclusions. Most are furnished.
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Planning to spend between $400–$650* per week? Here’s where to find affordable accommodation options with more privacy and amenities.
*Prices marked are calculated per person and might not be the total price for the entire property.
Category Description Inclusions Provider Community living Community living offers standard-style rooms with shared facilities, such as kitchen and living areas. In this range, properties may be more modern and comes with more privacy or inclusions such as private bathroom and air conditioner. Usually all bills included with events provided from time to time. Furnished. Sub-leasing company Mid-cost student rooms, shared with 1–3 others. Rent is split among students. Tip: Move in with friends or find flatmates on Study Stays to save money. Often in quality apartment buildings, with most including bills—always confirm with the provider. Furnished or unfurnished options available. Real Estate Student-friendly real estate agents offering a range of apartments. Prices are lower when shared (e.g. 3-bed for $1200/week = $400 each). Studios and private rooms cost more. Renting through real estate may mean extra bills, but rent can be cheaper. Compare options with your flatmate. Furnished and unfurnished available. - NG Farah
- Dash Living
- Primus Property (provides student accommodation)
- Raine & Horne Kingsford
- Real Estate (property search platform)
- Domain (property search platform)
Homestay Live with a local host family in a private or shared room, depending on budget. Ideal short-term option when first arriving. Family setups vary. All-inclusive, furnished housing with optional meals. Host families offer local tips and support to help you settle in. Good quality home-style living. Studio/private living Studio Rooms available. Companies such at UME and Haush offer an independent living experience. Rooms are private with shared common living areas, but can different between properties. Contact accommodation provider to confirm further details. Usually, all bills are included with the weekly cost and furniture is supplied.
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If your budget is $650–$900+* per week, these options offer modern, high-comfort living with premium amenities.
*Prices marked are calculated per person and might not be the total price for the entire property.
Category Description Inclusions Provider Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) High-quality student accommodation with shared or private studio options. Designed for a full student experience and social living. Great for meeting other students. Modern, high-quality, fully furnished accommodation with top security. All bills included, plus events and activities for residents. Community Living Offers shared apartments or private studios, usually with other students. All bills included, with occasional community events. Furnished accommodation with bills included and occasional events.
Short-term accommodation
Need a place to stay while you settle in or look for something longer-term? If you're arriving from interstate or overseas, it's best to find long-term housing once you're in Sydney so you can inspect properties in person and avoid scams. That’s why we recommend booking 2–4 weeks of short-term accommodation before you arrive.
Homestays are a cost-effective option with meals included and helpful hosts. You can also consider hostels, serviced apartments or staying with friends or family. Not all places will be near UNSW, but a 30-minute public transport commute is common in Sydney.
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Stay with a local host family for a welcoming start in Sydney. Homestays often include meals, utilities and friendly support to help you settle in.
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Comfortable, fully-furnished options with flexible stays – ideal if you prefer privacy and convenience. Some offer UNSW discounts.
Veriu Randwick – Receive a 15% discount with our Rate Access Code: UNSWSTUDENTFAMILY
Veriu Central – Receive a 15% discount with our Rate Access Code: UNSWSTUDENTFAMILY
Veriu Broadway – Receive a 15% discount with our Rate Access Code: UNSWSTUDENTFAMILY
MadeComfy – Use this link for a UNSW discount
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Budget-friendly, social accommodation with shared facilities – great for short stays while you search for something long-term.
Advertise your property
Looking to advertise your property to students? We’re always on the lookout for student-friendly properties. Get in touch via studystays@unsw.edu.au to find out more about leasing arrangements or register your property on Study Stays below.
Have a question?
Contact us for advice on all things UNSW, including faculty-specific questions, essential services, and even support and development. We’re here to help.