The Iglu Guide | Blog
Best places to live when studying at Griffith University, Brisbane
Founded in 1971, Griffith University has grown into one of Australia’s leading universities. Recognised for its innovative approach to education and strong focus on research, it’s well-known for producing career-ready graduates and fostering strong industry connections. Griffith Uni also offers students a supportive learning environment, practical teaching and the opportunity to study in Brisbane, one of Australia’s most liveable cities. With more than 45,000 students representing over 130 countries, the modern campuses, world-class facilities and diverse community make for a popular choice for local and international students alike.
Choosing where to live can have a big impact on your student experience, from your commute times right down to your budgeting and friendship groups. Whether you want to be close to campus, in the heart of the action, or happy to discover the city neighbourhoods, there are plenty of options on the table. Here are five of the best places to live whilst studying at Griffith University.
1. South Brisbane
With no campus accommodation on Griffith University’s South Bank Campus, it’s hard to beat living in nearby South Brisbane for the pure convenience factor. Home to the iconic South Bank Parklands, this well-located suburb is the perfect spot for Brisbane’s sunny climate, blending riverside charm with a vibrant mix of cafés, restaurants, cultural hotspots and green spaces. Duck into the Queensland Museum and Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), dip your toes and relax by Streets Beach Lagoon, or immerse yourself in the city markets and weekend crowds – it doesn’t get much better.
- Accommodation options: Apartments and share houses
- Distance to Griffith Uni South Bank: 5-15 min walk or 7 min cycle
- Students love: Being close to campus and Brisbane’s lively cultural scene
2. Brisbane City
For students that love to be in the heart of the action, Brisbane City has it all. Combining the height of convenience with entertainment and connectivity, this central suburb is situated in the heart of the city and is just a quick skip and a jump from Griffth University’s South Bank campus. And thanks to the city’s excellent transport network it’s also well-connected to Nathan Campus in Brisbane South. With shopping precincts, cafés, riverside activities, and nightlife on its doorstep, Brisbane City is the perfect accommodation choice for students who love an active city lifestyle. And with major train stations, bus routes and ferry cats all within easy access no matter your campus, getting to and from uni couldn’t be easier.
- Accommodation options: Apartments, share houses, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) such as Iglu Brisbane City
- Distance to Griffith Uni South Bank: 15-25 min walk or 5-10 min cycle
- Distance to Griffith Uni Nathan Campus: 35 min bus
- Students love: Convenience and city living
3. Woolloongabba
Conveniently located between the CBD and both Griffith University campuses, Woolloongabba has unsurprisingly become one of Brisbane’s most popular student suburbs. Offering a convenient commute alongside a more affordable lifestyle, it is also known for its local eateries, coffee shops and a relaxed community feel. Home to The Gabba, one of Australia’s most iconic sporting venues, students are drawn to the entertainment energy that accompanies event days, with the influx of visitors directly correlating to improved transport links and a growing social dining scene making it an increasingly attractive option.
- Accommodation options: Apartments and share houses
- Distance to Griffith Uni South Bank: 20 min walk or 5 min cycle
- Distance to Griffith Uni Nathan Campus: 35 min bus
- Students love: Good value, easy commute, laid back vibes
4. Mount Gravatt
One of the closest suburbs to Griffith University’s Nathan Campus, Mount Gravatt offers a relaxed and residential feel, with plenty of green spaces, walks and everyday conveniences. Students benefit from easy access to nearby Westfield’s retail and entertainment opportunities, as well as a shorter commute and balanced lifestyle. This is the ideal spot for Nathan Campus students that want a quieter and more relaxing study environment.
- Accommodation options: Share houses and apartments
- Distance to Griffith Uni Nathan Campus: 10-20 min bus or 10 min cycle
- Students love: Quieter lifestyle and easy commute
5. Kelvin Grove
One of Brisbane’s best-known student neighbourhoods, Kelvin Grove has long been a popular choice thanks to its welcoming community, village atmosphere and excellent transport connections. Located just a short distance from the CBD, it offers the opportunity to really make the most of student life whilst retaining a sensible balance. Popular with students from a range of universities, Kelvin Grove offers a great mix of cafés, parks, weekend markets and study-friendly environments making it the ideal place to gather with other students. Nearby Iglu Kelvin Grove is a popular choice, offering students modern purpose-built facilities, dedicated study spaces, and a readymade student lifestyle.
- Accommodation options: Share houses, apartments, PBSA
- Distance to Griffith Uni South Bank: 25 min bus
- Distance to Griffith Uni Nathan Campus: 55 min bus
- Students love: Friendly student community with easy access to the city and University
Frequently asked questions
The best suburb depends on which campus you attend and what lifestyle you want. South Brisbane and Brisbane City suit students who want to be close to South Bank campus and enjoy city life, while Woolloongabba offers a more affordable middle ground between both campuses. Mount Gravatt is ideal for a quieter routine near Nathan campus, and Kelvin Grove suits students who want a strong community feel with easy access to the CBD.
South Brisbane is the closest option, with most accommodation just a five to fifteen minute walk or a seven minute cycle from campus. Brisbane City is also within easy reach, at fifteen to twenty five minutes on foot or five to ten minutes by bike.
Mount Gravatt is the nearest suburb to Nathan campus, with a commute of around ten to twenty minutes by bus or roughly ten minutes by bike. Woolloongabba and Brisbane City are also connected by bus, though the trip takes closer to thirty five minutes.
There is no campus accommodation at the South Bank campus, which is why nearby suburbs such as South Brisbane and Brisbane City are popular choices for students wanting a short and convenient commute.
Students can choose from share houses, private apartments, and purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) depending on the suburb. PBSA options include Iglu Brisbane City in the CBD and Iglu Kelvin Grove, both offering modern facilities and dedicated study spaces alongside a built in student community.
