Every year, Melbourne welcomes more than 1,80,000 international students because of the lifestyle it offers. Ranked as the #1 student city in Australia and #5 in the world by the QS Best Student Cities 2025, the city is known for its vibrant energy. But moving into the city is not just about finding the perfect university for yourself. It is all about figuring out how to live your daily life abroad. In this guide, we are going to talk about costs, travel, and work rules for 2026 so you can move to Melbourne with total confidence.
What are the Types and Rent of Student Accommodation in Melbourne?
When you first think about living in Melbourne, it is all about choosing what type of lifestyle suits you better. There are some students who want vibrant city centre studios, while others look for shared apartments where they can build long-lasting friendships with late-night study sessions. Below are the various types of student accommodation in Melbourne:
- Student Housing: Also referred to as purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), they consist of large spaces that are especially dedicated to students. They are all fully furnished rooms and all-inclusive with bills like electricity, water and internet. Typical cost for a PBSA ranges from approx. AUD $1,200 to $2,800.
- Studios: These consist of private self-contained units that come with a personal kitchen, bathroom, and combined living/sleeping area. Rent for private studios typically ranges from approx. AUD $1,700 to $2,400 per month.
- En-suites: Here you will get your own bedroom with a private bathroom attached. However, the kitchen and living room will be shared with others. The average rent for this is approx. AUD $498 per week.
- Non- Ensuites: In this, you will get a private bedroom with a shared bathroom, kitchen and living areas. The average rent for the same is approx. AUD $406 per week.
- Shared Apartments: This setup allows you to share everything from bedrooms to kitchen, living and bathrooms with others. They account for 21.9% of the total student accommodation market. The average rent for this is approximately. AUD $250-$350 per week.
- Private Apartments: This student accommodation Melbourne type is completely private. Both non-students and working professionals can live here. Apart from that, your utility bills will not be included in the rent. You have to manage that on your own.
What is the Transportation System Like in Melbourne?
Getting around Melbourne is more like exploring a city that moves with you. The transportation system here is designed to make student life easier and more connected. As of 1 January 2026, the system has introduced several new fare updates, including free travel for all Victorian residents under 18. That is why it is very important for students to get a better understanding of this, so that they can plan their journeys with confidence and ease.
Types of Transportation in Melbourne
The city has a highly integrated network of trains, trams, and buses that can be accessed with a single payment method: the myki card. The following are the various types of transport mediums used by the students:
- Trams: Melbourne has one of the world's largest tram networks. It includes an iconic Free Tram Zone in the Central Business District (CBD) and Docklands. Here, no fare or Myki tap is required.
- Trains: The Metropolitan train network is known to connect the city centre with other suburbs. Its City Loop is an underground system that connects five major stations within the CBD.
- Buses: These fill the gaps between train and tram lines, providing extensive coverage for outer suburbs and regional area.
Myki Card
The Myki is a reusable smartcard that is used to pay for all public transport. All you need to do in this is “tap on” at the start of the journey and “tap off” when leaving. In this you will get two options:
- Myki Money: A pay-as-you-go option where you load a balance, and the system automatically calculates the 2-hour or daily cap.
- Myki Pass: Designed for frequent travelers, offering unlimited travel for 7 days or between 28 and 365 days at a discounted rate.
What are the Rules of Part-Time Jobs and Income in Melbourne?
Part-Time work in Melbourne gives students an opportunity to gain experience, build confidence and feel connected to the city. From bus cafes to retail stores, you will have endless yet diverse opportunities. But they all come up with important rules. Here are some of the important details about that one should be aware about:
1. Common Part-Time Jobs Industries
Melbourne has a thriving job market. As of February 2026, international students are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters, with unlimited hours during breaks. In addition to that, the Fair Work Commission reviews wages on an annual basis. The national minimum wage for students is AUD $24.95/ hour. Students who are working as "casual" employees are entitled to an extra 25% on top of the base rate. Thus, bringing the minimum to AUD $31.19/hour. Some of the common part-time industries:
- Hospitality: Waitstaff, baristas, or kitchen hands.
- Retail: Sales assistants or supermarket shelf-stockers.
- Academic: University tutors or research assistants.
- Services: Delivery drivers, aged care, or cleaning services.
2. Where to Find Jobs
Having a job in Melbourne takes up lots of skills. In 2026, the city puts emphasis on "soft skills" and local certifications. Most students find their first role within 3 to 6 weeks. Below are some of the major ways by which one can find jobs:
- Online portals such as SEEK, Indeed Australia and Jora.
- Universities like the University of Melbourne and Monash University host exclusive job boards that let you know who is hiring and for what role.
- There are several places that still work on "walk-in" approach or word-of-mouth referrals.
Conclusion
Living in Melbourne is all about striking balance between your studies and social life. Once you get a proper understanding about how the city moves in terms of its housing marketing and transportation system, you are already ahead of several people that move here. The city not only offers you a degree, but also a vibrant multicultural experience that will shape your future. Ready to find your perfect home? Start your journey today by exploring the best student accommodation in Melbourne with University Living today!
