The Iglu Guide | Blog
7 Reasons to choose off campus student accommodation
There are so many options to consider when deciding where to live while you are studying. For most students the biggest question is whether to live in on-campus or off-campus student accommodation.
Living on-campus does have the advantage of convenience – being so close to class means you never have far to go. But given many students don’t spend all day, every day going to classes, what happens when the lights go out at the university? In some cases your options can be quite limited.
That’s why it’s a good idea to consider off-campus, purpose-built student accommodation – it offers all of the supportive benefits of on-campus living along with flexibility, convenience and its own unique advantages. Here are seven top reasons why off-campus living could make all the difference to your student life:
1. Increased opportunities to find part-time work
Living off-campus often means being closer to local businesses, giving you better access to a wider range of part-time job opportunities. With potentially less competition from other students applying for the same roles, you may have a higher chance of securing work that not only pays the bills but also builds your skills and experience. Even better, these jobs may be just a short walk or commute from home.
2. The chance to build a more diverse social network
When you live in off-campus accommodation, you’re more likely to share your space with students from other universities, colleges, and countries. This creates an amazing opportunity to broaden your social circle beyond your course or campus. You’ll meet people with different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives – something that can enrich your personal life and even give you fresh approaches to studying and problem-solving.
3. Greater access to amenities and transport
Off-campus student housing often places you in the middle of a buzzing neighbourhood. Think cafés, restaurants, shopping centres, gyms, cinemas, cultural attractions, and public transport right at your doorstep. This means you can enjoy a well-rounded lifestyle without spending hours getting from A to B. All Iglu properties in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, for example, are located close to a wide range of amenities to make daily life easier and more enjoyable.
4. A change of scenery each day
They say variety is the spice of life – and when you live off-campus, you naturally get more of it. By separating where you study from where you live, you can mentally ‘switch off’ when the day is done. Heading home through a different environment each day can help you recharge and re-focus, making it easier to maintain a healthy study–life balance.
5. More freedom and independence
While on-campus living can sometimes come with strict rules and curfews, off-campus accommodation often gives you more flexibility to live your life your way. Whether it’s cooking your favourite meals at any time of day, having friends over, or coming and going as you please, you’ll have a greater sense of independence – an important step toward adult life.
6. A wider choice of living arrangements
Off-campus housing can offer more variety when it comes to room types and facilities. Whether you prefer a private studio, a shared apartment, or a budget-friendly single room, you’re more likely to find something that fits your needs and personality. All Iglu properties also come with modern communal areas, study spaces, and entertainment zones that make life more comfortable and connected.
7. The opportunity to explore your city
Living in a neighbourhood away from campus means you’ll naturally discover more of your city. You’ll find new favourite coffee spots, stumble across hidden parks, and enjoy cultural events you may never have known about if you stayed within the campus bubble. This not only makes your time as a student more exciting but also helps you feel at home in your new city.
Final tip: The key is to do your research to ensure you choose the right accommodation in the best location for your needs. University info sessions and Open Days are a great way to learn about your options – but the best way is to visit in person, book a tour, meet the team, and chat with the students already living there. You’ll quickly get a feel for whether it’s the right fit for you.
