Living in Adelaide

Adelaide is affordable

More room to enjoy student life

Adelaide is one of Australia’s more affordable capital cities, with living costs generally lower than in Sydney and several other major cities. StudyAdelaide estimates that international students typically spend around A$350–700 per week on living expenses, depending on their accommodation, lifestyle and spending habits.

Accommodation will usually be one of your biggest expenses. Sharing a house or apartment can help manage costs, while living closer to campus may save you time and transport expenses.

Plan your budget before you arrive, allowing for rent, groceries, utilities, transport, phone and internet, study materials and social activities.

Use the Australian Government’s Cost of Living Calculator to estimate your expenses and start planning your budget.

StudyAdelaide living-cost guide

Getting around Adelaide is easy

Explore more, spend less

Adelaide’s compact city centre makes it easy to walk between many shops, cafés, cultural attractions and everyday services. Buses, trains and trams connect the city with surrounding suburbs and destinations.

There are also free transport options in parts of the city, including the City Connector buses and the tram network within the designated CBD free zone. Eligible full-time tertiary students may be able to access concession fares, subject to the applicable requirements.

Prefer two wheels? Adelaide has cycling routes and paths that offer another way to get around and explore.

Check current routes, fares and concession eligibility through Adelaide Metro before you travel.

A food scene worth exploring

From quick bites to memorable nights out

Adelaide’s food scene reflects the city’s cultural diversity, with international cuisine, independent cafés, lively restaurants and local produce to discover.

Start your day with a great coffee, grab a quick lunch between classes or spend an afternoon exploring the stalls at the Adelaide Central Market. In the city’s West End, laneways and streets around Peel and Leigh offer places to eat, meet friends and enjoy the evening.

From casual dining to live music and rooftop venues, there are plenty of ways to experience Adelaide’s social side. Whether you’re trying something new or searching for a taste of home, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Culture is all around you

Art, ideas and places to discover

Adelaide offers a rich mix of arts, culture, history and innovation. Spend an afternoon exploring the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, the State Library of South Australia or the Adelaide Botanic Garden.

You can discover exhibitions, explore local history, attend performances or simply find a quiet place to recharge between classes. Some attractions offer free admission to their permanent collections or public spaces, while special exhibitions and events may have a fee.

There’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time in the city.

Adelaide is festival central

There’s always something happening

Adelaide has a lively festival calendar, bringing together music, food, performance, film and cultures from around the world.

Depending on the time of year, you could experience the Adelaide Fringe, Adelaide Festival, WOMADelaide, OzAsia Festival, FEAST or other local events.

Festivals are a great way to discover new artists, experience different cultures and connect with people beyond your studies. Keep an eye on event dates and ticket prices so you can plan what you’d like to see.

A city with room to slow down

Find your own rhythm

Adelaide offers plenty of energy when you want it and quieter places when you need a break.

Take your books to the State Library, find a café for a change of study scenery or unwind in the city’s surrounding parklands. You can balance a busy study schedule with time outdoors, exercise and social activities.

The key is finding a routine that works for you: time to focus on your goals, opportunities to explore and space to recharge.

Weekend getaways are within reach

Discover more of South Australia

When you’re ready for a break from city life, South Australia has plenty to offer.

Explore the Adelaide Hills and its villages, discover the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale, spend time along the coast or plan a longer trip to Kangaroo Island.

Whether you’re after nature, food and wine, coastal scenery or a change of pace, a weekend away can be a great way to experience more of Australia while you study.

Remember to factor in travel time, transport and accommodation costs when planning your trip.

Build skills and explore career opportunities

Think beyond your degree

Adelaide has a diverse economy, with activity across sectors including health, technology, defence, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, creative industries and renewable energy.

While you study, you can start learning about the local employment landscape, building professional connections and developing skills that support your career goals. Depending on your circumstances and available opportunities, this may include attending industry events, exploring relevant part-time work or seeking professional experience.

If you’re an international student, make sure you understand your visa conditions before accepting work. Employment, internships and graduate opportunities are competitive and are not guaranteed.

The best of both worlds

Adelaide offers the opportunity to build your future while enjoying life outside the classroom. It’s a city where you can explore new interests, experience different cultures, spend time in nature and connect with a diverse community.

Your time here can be about more than earning a qualification. It can also be about gaining independence, broadening your perspective and discovering what comes next.

Ready to make Adelaide part of your story?

Explore StudyAdelaide to learn more about studying, living and experiencing student life in Adelaide.