Discover Australia’s most affordable rental cities in 2025 with low-cost housing, budget-friendly suburbs, and practical tips for renters.

Introduction

As rental prices continue to rise across Australia, finding affordable cities to rent in 2025 is crucial for many individuals and families. While Sydney and Brisbane face steep rents, several cities offer significantly lower rental costs, balancing affordability, lifestyle, and access to amenities. Knowing where to rent cheap in Australia helps renters secure the best value without compromising quality of life.

Top Affordable Cities for Rent in Australia

Hobart leads as the cheapest capital city to rent across Australia, with a median weekly rent around $556 while offering a relaxed lifestyle and access to natural beauty. Melbourne and Adelaide follow, with median rents roughly $606 and $610 per week respectively, featuring suburban pockets where rents can dip well below $500 weekly for houses and units. Other notable mentions include Darwin and Brisbane, where recent rental increases remain more moderate compared to Sydney’s steep costs. Regional centers and satellite suburbs in these cities provide accessible, budget-friendly options particularly suited for first-time renters and families.

Affordable Suburbs and Rental Market Insights

Within cities, rental bargains cluster in specific areas. For example, Melbourne suburbs such as Melton South, Werribee, and Wyndham Vale have a high share of listings under $500 per week, making them some of the best cheap places to live near a major city. Adelaide’s northern suburbs like Elizabeth North and Salisbury also offer some of the lowest rents for houses and units. Renters seeking affordable units can look towards suburbs such as Glenorchy in Hobart and Booval near Brisbane. Understanding local markets helps renters identify affordable suburbs with good transport links and community facilities.

Practical Tips for Finding Cheap Rentals in 2025

  • Expand your search to regional or suburban areas: Renting on the city outskirts or in regional towns can drastically lower costs.
  • Act quickly: Affordable rentals are in high demand; staying alert and ready to apply is key.
  • Consider the type of property: Units and apartments generally rent cheaper than houses, but check for associated costs and quality.
  • Leverage rental websites and local agents: Use multiple sources to find the best listings and negotiate terms when possible.
  • Balance affordability with commute and amenities: Lower rent shouldn’t mean compromising on accessibility or safety.

Conclusion

In 2025, Hobart, Melbourne, and Adelaide stand out as Australia’s cheapest cities to rent, especially when exploring affordable suburbs and regional areas. By understanding rental markets and planning strategically, renters can secure budget-friendly homes while enjoying quality lifestyles and community connectivity.