Why Perth Is Becoming Australia’s Most Affordable Study Destination for International Students

If you’re planning to study in Australia in 2026, you’ve probably looked at Sydney and Melbourne first—and then felt the budget stress kick in. The good news: you don’t have to choose between a “big city experience” and a realistic student budget.

Perth (Western Australia) is increasingly considered one of the best-value options for international students in Australia, especially if your goal is to manage living costs while still studying at respected universities and enjoying a safe, modern lifestyle. In fact, StudyPerth highlights that Perth can offer a lower cost of living than some other major Australian cities.

Let’s break down exactly why Perth is becoming a top affordable choice and how you can plan your budget like a local.

1) The biggest reason: housing can be more manageable (if you choose smart)

For most international students, rent is the #1 expense. Perth tends to reward students who are flexible about where and how they live-especially if you’re open to shared housing or suburbs with easy campus access.

Study Australia’s Perth budgeting guide notes that renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range around $350–$450 per week (costs vary by location and timing).
To avoid guessing, you can also use the official Study Australia Cost of Living Calculator, which states its rental figures are based on market data (as of November 2025).

Affordable Perth accommodation options (ranked by budget-friendliness)

  • Shared house / shared apartment: Often the best value (split rent + bills)

  • Suburban studios or units: Lower rent, bigger space, quieter study environment

  • Homestay: Predictable weekly costs (often includes meals)

  • On-campus housing / student residences: Convenient, but can be competitive

Pro tip: In Perth, living slightly outside the CBD often gives you a better price-to-space ratio-without losing city convenience.

2) Student transport can be cheaper than you expect (and easier to plan)

Perth is known for being student-friendly in everyday commuting. If you’re enrolled full-time, you may be eligible for discounted public transport through the Tertiary SmartRider system. Transperth explains that to access concession fares, you need a Tertiary SmartRider (your university ID alone isn’t accepted for concession).

Curtin University also confirms full-time students can access a Tertiary SmartRider and receive concessional fares across buses, trains, and ferries.


How to save on transport in Perth (fast checklist)

  • Apply for Tertiary SmartRider (once you’re enrolled)

  • Choose housing near a bus/train line to your campus

  • Budget weekly transport as a fixed cost (it helps avoid overspending)

3) You can work part-time while you study (within visa rules)

Many students choose Perth because part-time work can help with weekly expenses while studying.

As of current guidance, student visa (subclass 500) holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session (and it’s important to follow the condition to avoid visa issues).
For visa details and updates, always rely on the Australian Government’s official student visa page.

Common student jobs in Perth

  • Hospitality (cafes, restaurants, hotels)

  • Retail (malls and supermarkets)

  • Admin/support roles (entry-level)

  • Campus roles (when available)

Budget tip: Treat part-time income as “support money,” not your whole plan. Your main focus should remain your education in Australia-work is a helpful extra, not the foundation.

4) Perth offers strong education options across high-demand specializations.

Affordability doesn’t mean “lower quality.” Perth has multiple universities and institutions with wide course choices—so you can align budget and career goals.

Popular universities in Perth (for international students)

  • The University of Western Australia (UWA)

  • Curtin University

  • Edith Cowan University (ECU)

  • Murdoch University

  • The University of Notre Dame Australia (Fremantle campus)

UWA’s international student page positions Perth as a vibrant study location and highlights UWA’s standing (including QS ranking references).

In-demand specialisations (education + career focused)

If you want a "specialization in education” (or a career-oriented study plan), Perth is strong in areas tied to WA’s industries and workforce needs, such as:

  • Education (Teaching, TESOL, Education Leadership)

  • Nursing & Health Sciences

  • Engineering (including mining-related fields)

  • Information Technology & Cyber Security

  • Business, Accounting & Analytics

  • Environmental / Marine / Sustainability studies

Choosing a specialization that includes internships, placements, or industry projects can enhance your employability and make your investment in studying in Australia feel more worthwhile in the long term.

5) Your money goes further on lifestyle (without sacrificing “Australia experience”)

Perth offers the lifestyle international students want-beaches, parks, and city events—without needing to spend like you’re in a higher-cost mega-city.

Here’s what often makes Perth feel “affordable” in real life:

  • More free outdoor activities (parks, riverside walks, beaches)

  • Plenty of student-friendly food spots and markets

  • A slower pace that reduces “constant spending” pressure

And for cost planning, both StudyPerth and UWA point students toward budgeting resources and living-cost estimates.

Quick budget snapshot for students in Perth (2026-ready approach)

Instead of relying on one fixed number, use a range and tools:

  • Rent (biggest cost): Depends on suburb and shared vs solo (check the calculator)

  • Transport: Use Tertiary SmartRider concessions if eligible

  • Work plan: Follow visa limits (48 hours/fortnight during study)

If you want the most accurate planning for your lifestyle, start with the official calculator and build your budget around housing first.

Step-by-step: how to plan an affordable “Study in Perth” move

  1. Pick your course and specialisation (match career goals and budget).

  2. Shortlist institutions (compare tuition, scholarships, intakes)

  3. Estimate living costs using official tools (rent + transport + food)

  4. Plan accommodation early (shared housing saves the most)

  5. Understand your Australia student visa rules before you arrive

  6. Set a weekly budget and track spending for the first 6–8 weeks

Final take: Perth is a smart 2026 choice for budget and quality.

If your goal is to study in Australia without letting living costs control your entire experience, Perth is becoming a seriously smart option. With strategic housing choices, student transport concessions, strong universities, and career-focused specialisations, Perth can deliver "Australian life” with a more realistic student budget.

Planet Education