Best Suburbs Near RMIT for Students: Rent, Commute and Safety ?

Finding the right place to live near RMIT University is about more than finding affordable rent. Students should also consider travel time, access to shops and public transport, and how comfortable they feel returning home after evening classes.

For students attending RMIT's City campus, Carlton, Melbourne CBD, North Melbourne and Brunswick are useful areas to compare. The best option depends on your budget and whether you want to walk to class or commute by tram or train. RMIT's accommodation guide identifies nearby suburbs and provides estimated transport connections.

1. Carlton — Best for Walking to Campus

Carlton is a popular area to consider because it sits close to RMIT's City campus and has cafes, restaurants, supermarkets and student accommodation. Some properties are within walking distance of university buildings.

• Rent: Compare private rooms, shared apartments and purpose-built student housing.

• Commute: Some accommodation options are only a few minutes' walk from the City campus.

• Lifestyle: Cafes, dining options, gardens and student-friendly amenities.

• Safety tip: Check the street and route you would use after dark, along with building entry security and lighting.

Best for: Students who value campus access and want to spend less time commuting.

RMIT lists several student accommodation providers in Carlton, including options with walking times of around four to ten minutes to the City campus.

2. Melbourne CBD — Best for Convenience and Transport

Living in Melbourne's central business district puts shops, cafes, libraries, transport and university facilities close by. It's a convenient option for students who want to walk to class rather than depend on a daily commute.

• Rent: Compare furnished student studios, shared apartments and private rooms. Central locations can be expensive.

• Commute: Many properties are within walking distance of RMIT's City campus.

• Lifestyle: Shopping centres, cafes, restaurants, libraries and entertainment.

• Safety tip: Visit the exact street at different times, check building access and consider how busy the entrance is late at night.

Best for: Students who prioritise convenience and can afford central accommodation.

RMIT lists several student residences within approximately three to ten minutes' walk of its City campus.

3. North Melbourne — Best for a Residential Feel

North Melbourne offers a mix of residential streets, apartments, cafes and local services. It is worth considering if you want to live near the city without being right in the busiest shopping areas.

• Rent: Compare shared houses and apartments with purpose-built student accommodation.

• Commute: RMIT estimates around a 15-minute walk for some student residences, although your actual journey depends on the address.

• Lifestyle: Local shops, parks and access to the CBD.

• Safety tip: Check your walking route, nearby transport stops, lighting and the property's security arrangements.

Best for: Students looking for a balance between city access and residential surroundings.

4. Brunswick — Best for Shared Housing and Local Culture

Brunswick is a popular inner-northern suburb with cafes, restaurants, independent shops and a lively local atmosphere. Students willing to travel a little farther may find more shared-house options than in the immediate CBD.

• Rent: Private rooms in shared accommodation are worth comparing. One recent suburb guide gives an indicative range of around A$240–A$360 per week for a private room; actual listings vary.

• Commute: RMIT's City campus accommodation guide places Brunswick within roughly 15–25 minutes of the campus by public transport, depending on the location and route.

• Lifestyle: Cafes, shops, music venues and neighbourhood markets.

• Safety tip: If you expect to return late, check the last service, the walk from the stop and the lighting on your street.

Best for: Students who want shared housing and a lively neighbourhood, and are comfortable commuting.

5. Fitzroy — Best for Cafes, Art and Nightlife

Fitzroy is known for its cafes, restaurants, independent shops and creative scene. It can suit students who enjoy an active neighbourhood and want to be close to the city.

• Rent: Compare shared apartments and older houses; prices depend on room size and proximity to busy streets.

• Commute: The City campus is reachable by tram, bicycle or on foot from some locations.

• Lifestyle: Dining, galleries, shops and nightlife.

• Safety tip: Consider noise as well as security, particularly if the property is close to bars or busy roads.

Best for: Students who value culture and social activities and have room in their budget.

6. How Much Should You Budget for Rent?

Rent depends on whether you rent a room in a share house, a private studio or an entire apartment. The figures below are rough planning guides, not verified live offers or suburb-wide averages.

The private-room range is a broad planning estimate informed by inner-Melbourne suburb guides, including Carlton and Brunswick. Confirm current prices against live listings before making a decision.

Remember to budget for more than rent:

• Electricity, gas, water and internet where not included.

• Bond and rent in advance.

• Groceries and household essentials.

• Public transport.

• Furniture and moving costs, if required.

RMIT notes that private rentals are often unfurnished and may exclude utilities and internet. Student accommodation providers may offer all-inclusive rates, so compare the total cost rather than rent alone.

7. Public Transport and Commute Times

For students attending the City campus, living within walking distance can save time and transport costs. If you choose a farther suburb, look for a direct tram or train route where possible.

These are general comparisons based on RMIT's accommodation guidance, not guaranteed door-to-door travel times.

8. Is It Safe to Live Near RMIT?

Safety should be assessed at the property and street level, rather than by relying on a suburb's reputation alone. Conditions can differ between two streets in the same area.

Before signing a lease, consider these checks:

1. Visit the neighbourhood: If possible, inspect during the day and evening.

2. Check the route home: Look at lighting, footpaths, tram stops and the walk from public transport.

3. Inspect building security: Check entry locks, intercoms, external doors and access to shared areas.

4. Ask about noise: Visit near the weekend if the property is close to restaurants, bars or major roads.

5. Research local information: Check official Victoria Police crime statistics and local safety information rather than relying only on online reviews.

6. Understand your rental rights: Read the agreement and confirm the bond process before paying.

No suburb can be guaranteed safe, but checking the property, transport route and local information helps you make a more informed decision.

9. How to Find Student Accommodation Near RMIT

Start with RMIT's official housing information, then compare private rentals and shared accommodation.

Useful resources include:

RMIT purpose-built student accommodation — lists providers and approximate campus travel times.

Domain — search private rentals and apartments.

Flatmates — explore rooms in shared accommodation.

Be cautious about rental scams. Inspect the property or arrange a reliable viewing, verify the person offering it has authority to rent it, and don't transfer money simply because someone claims that a room is in high demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which suburb is best for RMIT students?

Carlton and the CBD are strong options for students attending the City campus who want to walk to university. Brunswick is worth considering if shared housing and neighbourhood amenities are more important.

Which area is best for a shorter commute?

Carlton and Melbourne CBD are convenient starting points. The actual commute depends on your address and which RMIT building you attend.

Is Brunswick cheaper than Carlton?

Some Brunswick room listings may cost less than comparable options in Carlton, but this isn't guaranteed. Compare current listings and include transport and utilities in your budget.

Should I choose a shared house or student accommodation?

A shared house can reduce the cost of renting your own place, while purpose-built student accommodation may offer furnished rooms and inclusive bills. Compare the lease, facilities, privacy and total weekly cost.

What should international students check before arriving?

Arrange suitable temporary accommodation if needed, confirm the location of your campus, understand the rental agreement and inspect long-term options before committing. RMIT recommends exploring housing options carefully before signing or paying.