The Iglu Guide | Blog
Living close to campus: Top student accommodation for UTS students
University of Technology, Sydney is one of Australia’s leading modern universities, recognised for its strong industry connections, innovative teaching approach, and highly practical, career-focused degrees. Located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD it offers students unbeatable access to transport, career opportunities, and everything the city has to offer. With its iconic buildings, diverse student community, and focus on real-world outcomes, UTS continues to attract students from across Australia and around the world. Centrally located, it’s a great fit for students who want to benefit from a hands-on learning opportunity – but your overall student experience will be heavily shaped by the type of accommodation you choose. Deciding whether to live on or off campus, and choosing the right suburb can have a significant impact on your daily routine, commute, budget and social life. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular choices for UTS students.
Ultimo
Living in Ultimo places you right on the doorstep of UTS, making it a highly convenient and attractive option for all students. With campus located just a short 5-minute walk away, it’s ideal for those who want to minimise commute times and keep a well-structured routine. And with Central Station just around the corner, you can access trains, buses and light rail networks within minutes. Although a relatively quiet area, Ultimo has a strong student presence and offers lots of accommodation options within a focused, academic environment. Explore Darling Harbour and Broadway shopping centre nearby, and enjoy the opportunities that come with living in the heart of the city.
Accommodation options: Purpose built student accommodation, apartments, limited share housing
Distance to UTS: 5 minute walk
Best for: Students who want convenience and proximity to campus
Chippendale
This once undesirable neighbourhood is now a highly sought after area, and a major student hub thanks to new developments and purpose-built student accommodations such as Iglu Central Park and Iglu Broadway. An eclectic and lively inner-city suburb, Chippendale is brimming with cafes, bars and student-friendly spaces. Situated close to both UTS and Central Station, it combines fantastic convenience with unbeatable lifestyle benefits – which means demand can be high, and rents can be competitive. Ideal for students who love to live in the heart of the action, you’ll never be short of things to do.
Accommodation options: Purpose-built student accommodation, apartments, share housing
Distance to UTS: 5 minute walk
Best for: Students who enjoy convenience and an actively social atmosphere
Redfern
Once considered a working-class Sydney suburb, Redfern has evolved into one of the city’s most dynamic and culturally rich student areas. Situated just over 1km from UTS, it seamlessly combines heritage and charm, with character and convenience. Effortlessly blending old and new, Redfern offers students an off-campus mix of bars, cafes, art galleries and entertainment options. It has a strong community feel that makes it an appealing choice for both domestic and international students alike. Redfern Station provides excellent transport opportunities whilst the walkability options mean that students are able to enjoy a balanced lifestyle without long commutes. As the suburb continues to increase in popularity, demand for accommodation is high, and so pricing can be competitive.
Accommodation options: Purpose-built student accommodation, apartments, share housing
Distance to UTS: 20 minute walk
Best for: Students who enjoy community and convenience
Waterloo
Balancing inner-city convenience with a community feel, Waterloo has transformed from its once industrial roots. This modern student-friendly neighbourhood is just a few kilometres from the CBD which means you’re close to campus while still enjoying cafés, bars, galleries and green spaces all around. Getting around from Waterloo is easy thanks to the new Waterloo Metro Station, which connects quickly to key hubs like Central Station and makes commuting to campus simple and hassle free.
Accommodation options: Purpose-built student accommodation, apartments, share housing
Distance to UTS: 30 min walk, 2 minute train
Best for: Students who enjoy great amenities, a quieter lifestyle and proximity to campus
Accessible commute options
As UTS is located very near to Central Station, students have the option to live along any direct train line and benefit from an easy commute. Popular options include suburbs like Chatswood, Summer Hill, Mascot and Green Square. Most offer a quick 5–20 min train ride into Central Station, making them convenient – and often more affordable alternatives to living more centrally in the city.
Frequently asked questions – Living close to campus as a UTS student
What types of student accommodation are near UTS?
There are several options for UTS students, including purpose-built student accommodation, private apartments, and shared housing. Purpose-built student accommodation often includes facilities like study rooms, social spaces, and 24/7 support, making it ideal for those seeking convenience and community.
Which suburb is closest to UTS?
Ultimo and Chippendale are the closest suburbs to UTS, both within a 5–10 minute walk from campus. These areas are perfect for students who want to minimise their commute and stay immersed in city life.
Is public transport from nearby suburbs convenient for UTS students?
Yes. UTS is near Central Station, so students living in suburbs like Waterloo, Redfern, Chatswood, Summer Hill, and Mascot can enjoy a quick and direct commute by train or metro. Waterloo and Chatswood both benefit from the Metro Station, providing fast connections to the city and campus.
Which suburbs are best for students who want a quieter lifestyle?
Suburbs like Waterloo, Summer Hill and parts of Redfern offer a quieter, more community-focused lifestyle while still being within easy reach of UTS. These areas feature leafy streets, parks, and local cafés, providing a good balance between study and social life.
Are there affordable accommodation options near UTS?
Yes. While central areas like Ultimo and Chippendale can be competitive in price, suburbs slightly further out, such as Waterloo, Summer Hill, and Mascot, often offer more affordable rent while still keeping students within 20–30 minutes of campus by train or metro.
