Accommodation in Sydney can be very expensive to rent and to buy. It's known as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but Harbour City is also known for its high cost of living. A mainstay on 'most liveable city' lists, Sydney slipped from fourth in 2023 to seventh in the annual for 2024. The reason? The housing crisis and climbing rents.
However, if you're determined to live in Sydney and you put in the research, you can usually find something that works for you. But you'll need to keep in mind that a certain level of compromise may be required, as , indicating strong competition for available rentals.
The Sydney rental market
In April 2025, the was AUD 725 (USD 470), a jump of AUD 15 (USD 10) from the previous month. Meanwhile, the median house rent rose AUD 20 (USD 13) to AUD 840 (USD 544). There's no denying that house-hunting in Sydney is highly competitive, but , giving house hunters slightly more options. If you've decided to make Sydney your home, here are some tips to help you enter the rental market prepared.
The first step is to research and gain an understanding of the market and what is available. Head online and check out websites like:
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In addition to trusty Google, there's more to flat hunting than just online searching. Word of mouth can be an excellent tool for finding a place, especially if you are looking for a single room or a short-term stay. Spread the word amongst friends, post what you're looking for in Facebook groups, or keep an eye on notice boards. You never know, you might stumble upon a hidden gem without having to deal with the hassle of competitive viewings. But, like it or not, you'll probably need to attend an open inspection to find a place. We recommend attaching a brief cover letter to your application if you regularly attend viewings. It doesn't need to be an essay, just a quick intro about yourself and what you do — anything to help you stand out from the crowd.
Paying rent and renters' obligations in Sydney
When it comes to paying rent in Australia, you will typically pay either weekly, fortnightly, or monthly. The payment is usually made via an automatic payment you set up using online banking. When you sign your lease in Sydney, you will typically pay one month's rent and a security deposit (also known as a bond) upfront. You'll get that bond back when you're ready to move on, so long as there is no damage to the property. There are several different types of residential tenancy agreements, including short-term fixed, long-term fixed and periodic leases. Your landlord may only offer a specific kind of lease, or they may be open to negotiation.
Flats in Sydney may come fully furnished, while many are unfurnished. Don't forget to check if appliances like washing machines, dryers, and fridges are included in your lease. And if you're an animal lover, be sure to check if pets are allowed. Many landlords in Australia aren't too keen on pets in their rental properties.
In Sydney, the landlord typically pays the water bill; however, if the property has a water meter, the tenant may be required to pay for the water that is used. And you'll be responsible for electricity, gas, and internet/cable.
If there's anything you're unsure of, or if something strikes you as unfair, you can reach out to the — the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority. The RBTA is the authority for both landlords and renters, and it can help resolve disputes. Another source of advice is which can provide guidance on rental rules and your rights as a tenant.
Flat sharing in Sydney
If you're looking to save money, it makes sense to move into an already-established household and share the rent with others. It's also a great way to meet new people in Sydney. Whether you're a professional, a student, or a backpacker, sharing a flat or a house in Sydney allows you to split the rent and expenses with one or more people.
The conditions for accommodation sharing in Sydney can vary, offering both short-term and long-term options, and there's also flexibility regarding the number of roommates you can have. One of the perks of sharing a house or a flat is that it's a less formal process, usually bypassing the need for references or long queues for property inspections. Instead, decisions are typically made by the current occupants.
Make sure to ask lots of questions when viewing the property to help give you a real sense of the expectations and personalities of your potential housemates. To find the perfect flat share in Sydney, check out popular websites like Ìý²¹²Ô»åÌý, where you can browse through listings of flats and houses and connect with like-minded individuals looking to share.
Short-term rental options in Sydney
When it comes to seeking short-term rental options in Sydney, you'll find there are quite a few options available to you if you know where to direct your search. Going for a short-term stay can prove to be an excellent solution for individuals who are looking for something flexible.
¹ó¾±°ù²õ³Ù±ô²â,Ìý can be a promising choice. Often, hosts are amenable to month-long stays, even if they haven't explicitly mentioned it in their listings. We recommended approaching hosts and proposing the possibility of an extended stay. This affords greater flexibility compared to traditional short-term rentals, and some hosts will jump at the chance to avoid the hassle of change-overs, cleaning, and dealing with communication from multiple guests.
Student accommodation in Sydney
Sydney is home to several prestigious universities that attract a diverse community of international students. Whether you're enrolled at the University of Sydney, the University of New South Wales, Macquarie University, the University of Technology Sydney, Western Sydney University or the Australian Catholic University, you'll be able to select from a range of accommodation options.
A popular choice for international students is on-campus accommodation, which is available at most universities in Sydney. When enrolling as an international student, seek advice about housing from international student advisers. Student dormitories or residential colleges are a common choice for international students in Sydney, as they're convenient and provide easy access to campus. However, prices can be more expensive than independent living (although benefits like meals and facilities can balance this out).
For those seeking a more independent living experience, off-campus options are also available. Shared houses and apartments are a common choice among students who prefer to live with fellow students and share the cost of rent and bills. While allow students to live with local families, offering a firsthand experience of Australian culture.
When considering student accommodation in Sydney, it's essential to think about your budget carefully. Alongside rental costs, students should also consider other expenses, such as groceries, utilities, and transportation. Some accommodation options may involve sharing groceries and include some expenses in the rental price, while others may require separate payments. Again, always consult with your university's international student advisor for guidance on budgeting and understanding the overall cost of living in Sydney so you don't end up living beyond your means.
Sydney's neighborhoods
Sydney is the biggest city in Australia. Built around the iconic Sydney Harbour, the city spreads out along its beautiful coastline and extends inland to the world-famous Blue Mountains. Sydney's diverse neighborhoods range from family-friendly suburban areas to high-end coastal spots. Whether you're planning to move to Sydney alone or with your family, make sure to study the city's different areas to ensure your desired suburb meets all of your needs. Key factors to consider include affordability, transportation, parking, schools, amenities and safety.
Northern Sydney
Across the harbor from the CBD, you'll find the area known as Northern Sydney. Connected to the city center by road, rail and ferry, it encompasses the leafy suburbs perched on the edge of the harbor, the stunning Northern Beaches, and the bustling commercial hub known as North Sydney. Some of the better-known suburbs in the north are Mosman, Manly, Lane Cove, North Ryde, St Leonards, Chatswood, Hornsby, Avalon and Palm Beach.
Western Sydney
Western Sydney is a vast region of Sydney renowned for its affordability and diverse cultural landscape. This rapidly growing area encompasses a large number of suburbs, including some of the city's most well-known postcodes, such as Parramatta, Penrith, Blacktown, Liverpool, Penrith and Bankstown.
Sydney's East
Sydney's eastern suburbs are home to some of the most expensive real estate in the country. Close to the city and Sydney's best beaches, residents of these sought-after postcodes enjoy high-end shopping, a vibrant café and restaurant scene, and access to prestigious private and public schools. If you've got the cash to splash, you could be calling Double Bay, Bellevue Hill, Vaucluse, Rose Bay or Point Piper home.
South Sydney
If you are looking for affordability, there are more diverse housing options south of the city. For more variety, consider the inner south. There's Redfern, which has had a bad reputation in the past, but an ongoing facelift has resulted in an eclectic mix of public housing alongside wealthy homes. Then head further south, and you will find Alexandria, which has recently experienced a surge in house prices and property development. Meanwhile, the home of Sydney Airport, Mascot, is being transformed via substantial high-density housing developments. The southern suburbs also take in the St George region, with a large Asian population residing in Hurstville and the sleepy seaside vibe of San Souci. The Sutherland Shire sits south of Botany Bay and features family-friendly Engadine, clean and quiet Jannali and the vibrant beachside town of Cronulla.
Popular Sydney suburbs
Bondi Beach
Bondi Beach is a coastal neighborhood in the eastern suburbs renowned for its stunning world-famous surf beach and laid-back lifestyle. Bondi offers a cool mix of beach culture, trendy cafés, and buzzing bars. A highly desirable area, living expenses and property prices in Bondi Beach are definitely on the higher side. However, Bondi is also popular among travellers and expats. Statistics from the last census in 2021 revealed that apart from Australian-born residents, those living in Bondi Beach were born in England, New Zealand, the United States and South Africa. In Bondi Beach, the weekly median rent is AUD 1,700 (USD 1,102) for houses and AUD 900 (USD 583) for apartments.
Surry Hills
Surry Hills is an inner-city neighborhood full of trendy cafés, hipster bars, and boutiques. The area has undergone significant gentrification, leading to skyrocketing property prices. While it offers a fantastic location close to the city, be prepared for higher living costs. Top countries of birth, apart from Australia, include England, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. Median rents for apartments are AUD 775 (USD 502) per week in Surry Hills, while median house rents are AUD 1,150 (USD 745).
Parramatta
Sydney's second-largest city, situated on the Parramatta River, is the commercial hub of the west. This well-known western Sydney suburb is a melting pot of different cultures and is 24 kilometers from the CBD. You'll find more affordable housing options in this bustling suburb, with good public transport options, shopping strips and restaurants and cafés with flavors from all around the world. In addition to Australian-born residents, Parramatta locals come from India, China, Nepal, Philippines and Iran. The median rental prices for a house and an apartment are AUD 700 (USD 454) per week and AUD 630 (USD 408), respectively.
Newtown
Newtown is a vibrant neighborhood in Sydney's inner west, renowned for its thriving arts and cultural scene. This eclectic neighborhood is one of the city's most ethnically diverse suburbs thanks to its proximity to the University of Sydney. Its bohemian atmosphere attracts artists, students, and creative types, offering a slightly more affordable housing option compared to some other areas of central Sydney. Apart from Aussie-born residents, those living in Newtown at the time of the last census were born in England, New Zealand, China, the United States and Ireland. The median weekly rent for houses is AUD 925 (USD 599), and for apartments, it is AUD 620 (USD 402).
Manly
Manly is a picturesque coastal suburb on the North Shore, offering a relaxed beachside lifestyle. With its beautiful beaches, beachfront cafés, and bustling Corso filled with shops and eateries, Manly has a charming and laid-back vibe. A short ferry ride from the CBD, it's one of the city's sought-after suburbs, with housing price tags to prove it. Countries of birth other than Australia are England, New Zealand, the United States, Brazil and South Africa. The median rent per week is AUD 1,900 (USD 1,231) for a house and AUD 950 (USD 616) for an apartment.
Darlinghurst
Darlinghurst is a vibrant neighborhood with a bustling nightlife, live music venues, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. It offers an array of dining options, from trendy restaurants to cozy cafés, but with its central location comes higher property prices. Located between Kings Cross and Surry Hills, it's a densely populated suburb of mostly terrace houses and apartment living. Countries of birth include England, New Zealand, Thailand, the United States and China. The median weekly rent for an apartment in Darlinghurst is AUD 710 (USD 460), and for a house, it is AUD 1,200 (USD 778).
The neighborhoods above are some of the most well-known parts of Sydney with a particular reputation or 'vibe'. Because of this, some areas tend to be more expensive to live in and more competitive when searching for a place to rent. If you're not interested in living in an area with a specific scene or lifestyle, and affordability is your primary concern, then you'll need to consider suburbs further out from the city, where travel times may be longer, but housing costs are significantly lower.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
