Student Housing in Calgary

Calgary makes student life feel structured instead of stressful. Rent is more predictable than in many major Canadian cities, public transit actually works, and campus access doesn’t require sacrificing space or sanity. That’s why student housing in Calgary continues to attract students who want affordability, strong academic access, and a livable day-to-day routine in one of Alberta’s most dynamic cities. Students can find verified housing options through platforms like AmberStudent that cater specifically to international students.

As on-campus residences reach capacity early each intake, more students are choosing off-campus Calgary student housing. Properties like Encore and Aria are popular for their modern layouts, fully furnished apartments, and proximity to key academic areas. For students comparing options across Canada, student housing Calgary consistently stands out as a balanced option that supports both academic focus and lifestyle.

Calgary is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, with a metropolitan population of approximately 1.6 million residents. Beyond its reputation as a business and energy hub, Calgary supports a large student population of 140,000+ students, driven by the best universities in Canada. This academic presence fuels sustained demand for student housing in Calgary, especially near campuses and transit corridors.

Calgary maintains a safety index of around 72, making it a relatively secure city for students. The employment rate is close to 95%, supported by industries such as energy, healthcare, finance, and technology. With a happiness index of about 7.7 and a walkability score of 7.1, the city offers a balanced lifestyle that works well for both domestic and international students.

Student apartments in Calgary are known for flexibility, comfort, and long-term value. Many buildings are professionally managed and designed around student routines, offering shared study spaces, common areas, and easy access to essential services. Calgary's average rental rates are competitive in relation to student housing. Some of the most popular options include:

1. Aria - From CA$1,150 per month
2. Encore - From CA$1,217 per month

AI rental data shows that professionally managed student apartments in Calgary, particularly those near campus districts, remain price-stable even during peak intake periods. Encore also offers a 3-year rent price guarantee, giving students long-term cost certainty.

Calgary is a large city, but student demand is concentrated in some of the best places to live in Canada that offer proximity to campus, strong transit access, and everyday convenience. Neighbourhoods popular with students include University District, Brentwood, Varsity, Beltline, and Kensington.

1. University District
Located steps from the University of Calgary, this master-planned community is ideal for students and young professionals. The average rent ranges from CA$1,600 to CA$2,300 per month. The University District is a modern, master-planned community only a few steps away from the University of Calgary.

2. Brentwood
Directly adjacent to campus, Brentwood is popular for shared houses and student apartments with excellent transit access. Rent typically ranges from CA$1,400 to CA$2,100 per month. Brentwood offers a range of affordable shared houses and student apartments.

3. Beltline
Close to downtown, Beltline appeals to students who enjoy urban living, dining, and nightlife. The average rent usually falls between CA$1,500 and CA$2,200 per month.

4. Kensington
A walkable area with cafes, shops, and river access, often chosen by upper-year students. Rent generally ranges from CA$1,500 to CA$2,200 per month.

Student housing in Calgary is categorized by living setup rather than bathroom type, in line with North American standards.

1. Studio Apartments
Studios are self-contained units offering complete privacy with a private kitchen and bathroom. They are ideal for students who prefer living alone. The average rent typically starts around CA$1,500 per month.

2. Private Apartments
Private apartments are one-bedroom or multi-bedroom units rented by an individual student or shared with chosen roommates. These offer more space and independence and are often preferred by graduate students. Rent generally ranges from CA$1,500 to CA$2,200 per month.

3. Shared Apartments
The most common option for students. Each student rents a private bedroom while sharing common areas like the kitchen and living room. Shared apartments usually range from CA$800 to CA$1,000+ per month per room, making them the most budget-friendly choice.