Victoria University City Tower vs RMIT University City: Student Comparison (2026)
Choosing between VU City Tower and RMIT City is a decision that many prospective Melbourne students face. Both universities are well-regarded, both have strong programs, and both campuses sit in suburbs with distinct student cultures.
This guide compares the two campuses across the factors that affect your daily student life: location, cost, transport, food, accommodation, and campus culture. Academic program quality varies by discipline and is best assessed through individual course research – this guide focuses on the lifestyle and practical comparison.
Campus Overview
| Factor | VU City Tower | RMIT City |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cbd | Cbd |
| Address | 295 Queen St, Melbourne VIC 3000 | 124 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000 |
| Student population | ~6,000 | ~40,000 |
| Known for | Business, IT, hospitality, block model | Design, architecture, engineering, technology |
| Nearest station | Flagstaff | Melbourne Central |
| Tram routes | 19, 57, 59 | 19, 57, 59 |
Cost of Living Comparison
| Expense | Near VU City Tower (Cbd) | Near RMIT City (Cbd) |
|---|---|---|
| Share house room | $200-300/week | $200-300/week |
| Studio apartment | $300-420/week | $300-420/week |
| PBSA | $350-500/week | $350-500/week |
| Coffee (flat white) | $4.50-5.50 | $4.50-5.50 |
| Cheap meal out | $10-15 | $10-15 |
| Groceries (weekly) | $50-80 | $50-80 |
Rents are comparable between the two areas. Food and grocery costs are similar across Melbourne’s student suburbs.
Transport Comparison
VU City Tower
Nearest station: Flagstaff Tram routes: 19, 57, 59
Multiple transport options make commuting flexible. The inner-city location means shorter trips from most starting points.
RMIT City
Nearest station: Melbourne Central Tram routes: 19, 57, 59
Multiple transport options make commuting flexible.
Campus Culture
VU City Tower
Business, IT, hospitality, block model. The campus is located in Cbd, which is urban, fast-paced, central, free tram zone, cultural institutions everywhere. With 6,000 students, the campus has a focused and tight-knit student community.
The surrounding suburb has a strong food, nightlife, and cultural scene that extends campus life into the streets.
RMIT City
Design, architecture, engineering, technology. Located in Cbd, with approximately 40,000 students. The urban location means campus life blends with city life.
Food Scene Comparison
Around VU City Tower
The centre of Melbourne’s food universe. Hardware Lane, Degraves Street, Chinatown, and hundreds of laneways packed with restaurants, cafes, and takeaway joints. Competition keeps prices lower than you would expect.
Around RMIT City
The centre of Melbourne’s food universe. Hardware Lane, Degraves Street, Chinatown, and hundreds of laneways packed with restaurants, cafes, and takeaway joints. Competition keeps prices lower than you would expect.
Both areas serve student populations and have adapted their food offerings accordingly. The price difference for eating out is minimal – the variety and cuisine types differ more than the cost.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose VU City Tower if:
- Your preferred course is stronger at Victoria University
- You value the Cbd suburb culture and lifestyle
- You want strong inner-city transport connections
- Business aligns with your academic interests
Choose RMIT City if:
- Your preferred course is stronger at RMIT University
- You prefer the Cbd environment
- You want an urban campus experience
- Design aligns with your academic interests
The Honest Assessment
Both universities offer quality education. The campus you choose should primarily be driven by which institution has the stronger program in your field. If both offer equivalent courses, the decision comes down to:
- Which suburb do you want to live in? Visit both campuses on a weekday and walk around the surrounding streets. The feel of the suburb matters for 3-4 years of daily life.
- Where do your friends or potential housemates study? Social connections matter. Being near friends makes the transition to university smoother.
- Which campus has better facilities for your course? Labs, studios, workshops, libraries – the physical infrastructure for your specific discipline varies between campuses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Victoria University City Tower compare to RMIT University City?
Victoria University City Tower (6,000 students, known for Business, IT, hospitality, block model) and RMIT University City (40,000 students, known for Design, architecture, engineering, technology) are both strong choices. The decision often comes down to course availability, campus culture, and suburb preference.
Which is cheaper to live near: VU City Tower or RMIT City?
Share house rents near VU City Tower (Cbd): $200-300/week. Near RMIT City (Cbd): $200-300/week. Both are similarly priced.
Which university has better transport access: VU or RMIT?
VU City Tower is served by Flagstaff, plus tram routes 19, 57, 59. RMIT City is served by Melbourne Central, plus tram routes 19, 57, 59.
Related Guides
- Student Accommodation Near Victoria University City Tower (2026)
- Cheapest Suburbs to Rent Near Victoria University City Tower (2026)
- Cheap Eats Near Victoria University City Tower (2026)
- Student Guide to Cbd: Living Near Victoria University City Tower (2026)
Comparison based on university websites, PTV, Domain.com.au, ABS Census 2021. Compiled April 2026. Academic rankings and course quality should be researched separately.