Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions you'll make when preparing for university. Whether you're moving to Perth from interstate, arriving from overseas or staying in the city to continue your studies, finding the right student accommodation can make a real difference to your university experience.
From university residential colleges and purpose-built student accommodation to private rentals and shared houses, Perth offers a range of options to suit different budgets, lifestyles and preferences.
So, where should you start? Here's what to consider when looking for student accommodation in Perth.
Residential colleges
Residential colleges offer more than a place to sleep between lectures. They combine accommodation with a student community, shared facilities and opportunities to get involved in university life.
Depending on the college and room type, accommodation packages may include meals, utilities, internet access, cleaning and access to study or recreational spaces.
Living in a residential college can be particularly appealing if you're moving away from home for the first time, want to meet people from different backgrounds or prefer having some of the practical aspects of living taken care of.
At St Thomas More College (STMC), affectionately known as Tommy More, residents can choose from standard rooms, premium standard rooms, studio apartments and one-bedroom apartments, subject to eligibility. Located in Crawley, opposite The University of Western Australia (UWA), the College offers accommodation alongside meals, study spaces, wellbeing support and opportunities to participate in community life.
Explore STMC's room types and virtual tours to see what's available.
Private rentals and share houses
Renting a private property or sharing a house with other students can offer flexibility in location, living arrangements and household routines.
However, you'll need to consider more than the advertised rent. Depending on the property, additional expenses may include electricity, gas, water, internet, furniture, household supplies and transport. You may also need to organise meals, cleaning and household maintenance yourself.
If you're considering a share house, think about how rent and bills will be divided, the terms of your lease and whether the location suits your daily university commute.
How much does student accommodation in Perth cost?
The cost of student accommodation varies depending on the location, room type, facilities and services included.
When comparing options, look beyond the weekly rent and consider the total cost of living.
Here are some expenses to check before making a decision:
Accommodation: Weekly rent or residential college fees, plus any upfront charges.
Meals and groceries: Whether meals are included, partially included or entirely your responsibility.
Utilities and internet: Check whether electricity, water, gas and Wi-Fi are covered.
Furniture and household essentials: Some rooms come furnished, while private rentals may require additional purchases.
Transport: Consider the distance to your university, public transport access and the cost of travelling to classes.
Other living expenses: Include laundry, personal expenses and any additional services you may need.
A room with a lower advertised weekly rent isn't necessarily the cheapest option overall if you need to pay separately for meals, utilities and furniture.
Likewise, a more comprehensive accommodation package may offer greater convenience, even if its headline price is higher.
At Tommy More, accommodation packages vary by room type, with different meal plans and facilities included. Visit our fees and charges page for current fees and inclusions before comparing your options.
What should you look for when choosing student accommodation?
The best accommodation for you will depend on your priorities, budget and stage of university life. Before committing, consider the following.
Location and access to university
Think about how you'll get to lectures, tutorials, the library and other places you visit regularly.
Living close to university can reduce commuting time and make it easier to participate in activities outside your timetable. If you're studying at a university elsewhere in Perth, compare travel times and transport connections from each property you're considering.
STMC is located in Crawley, opposite UWA, with Kings Park and the Swan River nearby. Its location offers convenient access to the surrounding university precinct and outdoor spaces.
Room type and privacy
Consider how much personal space you need and which facilities matter most to you.
Would you prefer a furnished room with shared bathroom facilities, a studio with your own kitchenette and ensuite, or a one-bedroom apartment?
Your options may also depend on your year of study and the accommodation provider's eligibility requirements. Check these details before applying rather than assuming every room type is available to every student.
You can explore STMC's room options and virtual tours to compare the facilities available.
Meals and everyday convenience
Preparing meals can be an enjoyable part of independent living, but it also takes time and planning around a busy university schedule.
Some accommodation packages include meals, while others provide kitchen facilities so you can prepare your own food. Consider which arrangement suits your routine, budget and dietary preferences.
At Tommy More, meal plans vary by room type. The College dining service offers meals throughout the week, with hot meals and a selection of salad, vegetarian and vegan options.
Find out more about facilities and dining at STMC.
Study spaces and student support
University life involves more than attending classes. You'll need somewhere to concentrate, access resources and take a break when study gets busy.
Look for accommodation with suitable study spaces, reliable internet and facilities that support your daily routine.
If you're moving away from family or friends, consider the support available too. Resident support, wellbeing programs and opportunities to meet other students can help you settle into a new environment.
Community and social life
Your accommodation can shape your university experience well beyond your studies.
Think about whether you'd prefer a quieter, independent arrangement or a setting where social activities and opportunities to meet other students are part of everyday life.
Residential colleges offer opportunities to participate in events, sport, leadership activities, volunteering and community initiatives, depending on the college and its programs.
At STMC, residents can get involved in a range of activities and student-led initiatives while enjoying the freedom to balance community life with their studies.
When should you apply for student accommodation?
It's worth researching your options early, particularly if you're moving to Perth for the start of the academic year.
Some accommodation providers accept applications well in advance, and availability can be limited for popular room types and intake periods.
Before applying, check:
When applications open and close.
Whether you can apply before receiving your university offer.
The eligibility requirements for your preferred room type.
The application process, fees and contract conditions.
Whether accommodation offers can be made conditionally on university admission.
At STMC, prospective residents are encouraged to apply early. You don't necessarily need to wait until you receive your university offer before beginning the accommodation process.
Visit How to Apply at Tommy More for the current application steps and requirements.
Is a residential college right for you?
There's no single accommodation option that suits every university student.
If independence and managing your own household are your priorities, a private rental or share house may be worth considering. If you'd prefer accommodation with selected services included, access to facilities and opportunities to participate in a student community, a residential college may be a better fit.
Think about what matters most to you: cost, location, privacy, meals, convenience or the opportunity to meet people and get involved beyond your studies.
Comparing these factors will help you choose accommodation that supports both your university commitments and your life outside the classroom.
Discover student accommodation at St Thomas More College
Located in Crawley, opposite UWA, St Thomas More College offers a welcoming residential college experience for eligible students studying at universities across Perth.
With a range of furnished accommodation options, meal plans, study facilities and opportunities to get involved in college life, Tommy More offers more than a place to live while studying.
If you're exploring student accommodation in Perth, take a look at our rooms, compare the fees and discover what life at the College could look like.