The Iglu Guide | Blog

Sydney students’ guide to Waterloo

November 14, 2025

Finding the right place to live as a student in Sydney is no easy task. But if you’re looking to balance city energy with relaxation and community vibes, you might just have found your destination of choice.

The lowdown

Welcome to Waterloo, an inner-city Sydney suburb that blends charismatic cool with functionality and space. Located just 3km south of the CBD, it’s an absolute magnet for those wanting access to the city without compromising on lifestyle. Brimming with young professionals, students and commuters alike, this one-time haven of industry has evolved from its working-class roots into a destination of choice. Offering all the convenience with none of the stress, Waterloo living has you well and truly covered.

Getting around

Waterloo’s central location makes it easy to get arou n d, whether you’re headed for the CBD, North Sydney, or into university. The new Waterloo Metro Station will get you into Central station in two minutes, Barangaroo in eight minutes and North Sydney in 11 minutes. Nearby Green Square train station is another great transport option, along with the expansive bus network and interconnected bike paths. Easy to navigate and gentle on the budget, Waterloo’s extensive transport options could not be better for students heading to study in Sydney.

Waterloo to:

UTS – 17 mins Metro
Sydney University – 20 mins Bus
UNSW – 22 mins Bus
Macquarie University – 26 mins Metro

Out and about

There are plenty of lifestyle perks for students living in Waterloo, a lively suburb that oozes creativity and cool. The heart of the action centres around Danks Street, a vibrant strip that is set up for your relaxation and enjoyment. Think stylish cafés, artisan eateries and local food producers… Add in a touch of retail and some art galleries and you have the perfect place to meet friends, hangout and have a whole lot of fun. The art and design scene is especially strong, with popular spots including Danks Street Galleries and Depot II Gallery which often feature student-friendly events. When the sun goes down, the social scene dials up, with many places offering a casual nightlife option. You don’t have to travel far to catch up with friends and it lacks the hecticness of the CBD. The walkability factor keeps everything accessible at all times, you’re never far from the comfort of home – and ultimately your budget will thank you.

Green spaces

Waterloo has a great choice of green escapes for an inner-city suburb, which means there’s always somewhere to get your natural mood-enhancer and enjoy the best of the weather.

Waterloo Park – plenty of open space to switch off and relax, as well as a sports oval and some outdoor fitness equipment
The Drying Green – open lawns, shaded picnic and BBQ zones, it’s ideal for socialising and situated close to transport (Green Square)
Waterloo Green – a quieter green space that’s ideal for a quick study break or a convenient stroll after lectures

Neighbourhood watch

You don’t have to travel far from home to discover that you have some really great neighbours when living in Waterloo!

Moore Park – Also encompassing Centennial Parklands, this is an excellent spot for weekend relaxation, running, socialising or events. With 360 hectares of greenery just a short bike ride away, it’s hard to believe the CBD is just minutes from your door.

Redfern – Waterloo’s bigger sister has a very strong arts and music scene, and is buzzing with cafés, bars, restaurants and more. A popular student choice, it has an inner-city vibe that definitely lives up to the hype.

Green Square – This fast-growing precinct straddles a number of different suburbs including Zetland, Alexandria, Beaconsfield and Waterloo. Once a patch of industrial land, this exciting urban renewal project is Sydney’s first new town centre in over a century. Featuring an award-winning underground library, cafés, restaurants, shops and supermarkets, it’s designed for active living and has wide footpaths, bike lanes and easy access to Centennial Parklands.