Why Should You Live and Study in Cairns?

Australia’s Cairns is a remarkably beautiful region on the East Coast of Queensland that combines the best elements of a vibrant hotspot with the laid-back vibe of a coastal town. Here are our top 10 reasons to live and study in Cairns. You will be surrounded by some of Australia’s most famous natural settings while studying in Cairns, including breathtaking beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, and pristine rainforests. Cairns offers an abundance of amazing activities, such as walking through the green surroundings, swimming in pristine waters, and getting up close and personal with native Australian wildlife. Plus, thanks to the region’s warm climate and year-round sunshine, there’s never a bad time to explore these amazing offerings.

Study at internationally renowned campuses
Those who choose to study in Cairns have their pick of some world-class education providers. Cairns boasts a well-rounded education sector, with two universities, multiple TAFE and private VET providers, English Language Colleges, and public and private schools. all of which offer study options to international students. Cairns is home to two of the world’s top universities: James Cook University and CQUniversity. Australia’s largest regional institution, CQUniversity, rated in the top 650 (out of 1,300) while James Cook University came in at 424 in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

Spend less and enjoy the holiday lifestyle
The estimated cost of living in Cairns is between $1,500 and $2,100 per month on average, which is substantially less than that of major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Excellent accommodation options
Cairns offers an outstanding selection of accommodation options for students. Many of the education providers in the region offer safe, clean and affordable housing options to both domestic and international students. Alternative housing options like house stays, shared housing, or purpose-built student accommodation. You’re sure to find an accommodation style that works for you, no matter what your situation may be.

Immerse yourself in rich Aboriginal history
Cairns and its surrounding districts are on the traditional lands of First Nations Gimuy-walubarra yidi country. When you live and study in Cairns, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about these communities and their rich cultural history. A great way to do exactly that is by attending a guided Indigenous cultural tour.

Boost your resume with great employment prospects
The city of Cairns is a great place to further your professional life, whether your goal is to start a new career or progress in your current one. Because of its location in Queensland’s tropical far north, Cairns offers exceptional job opportunities in a variety of industries, such as mining, farming, tourism, and hospitality.

A thriving tourism and hospitality industry
Cairns is a tourism and hospitality hotspot, making it an ideal study destination for students hoping to specialise in these sectors. Here, you’ll find an array of employment opportunities in hotels, resorts, bars, cafés and retail stores. Adventure-seekers can even search for jobs as travel consultants and tour guides, which can lead to unique outings and experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Play in paradise
Cairns’ nightlife is not to be missed. Every night of the week, there are great events taking place at local venues. From the famous Gilligan’s Hostel and Bar to The Woolshed to The Downunder Bar, there are plenty of places to dance the night away in the town centre. If you’re up for it, there’s even a party bus that will take you to the best spots every Wednesday and Saturday!

Cairns is the gateway to Far North Queensland
Cairns is the only major city close to Australia’s northernmost tip, Cape York. The gateway to beautiful rainforests, untouched landscapes and carefully managed Aboriginal land, there is no place in the world quite like Far North Queensland – and it’s all at your doorstep when you study in Cairns.

A tight-knit community
Because Cairns boasts a smaller population of roughly 150,000 people, you’ll never feel like just a number. Instead, you’ll benefit from the close-knit sense of community that comes from living in a smaller Australian city. Not only does this facilitate the process of making new friends, but it also makes professional networking much easier. Thanks to Cairns’ inclusive community, you’ll feel a sense of belonging throughout your study journey.

Source: InsiderGuides