Student Housing in Waterloo
| Showing 30 placesStudents no longer need to be stressed while finding good student housing in Waterloo. Through amber, students have access to a handpicked selection of verified student accommodation in Waterloo, which consists of shared apartments, studios, and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). In each listing, you will find accurate pricing, original pictures, detailed room descriptions, and straightforward lease terms, allowing option comparison and selection at your own discretion. Amber’s 24×7 student support, price transparency, and trusted listings ensure a smooth, secure, and stress-free housing journey. Waterloo is home to the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. Limited on-campus availability means most students rely on off-campus student accommodation in Waterloo. Some of the most loved options are King Street Towers and Bridgeport House, just 1.2 miles away.
Amber assists students in finding student apartments in Waterloo that are close and well-connected to public transport, providing easy access to libraries, cafes, grocery stores, and key student hubs. Both local and international students can enjoy a comfortable student life in Waterloo, as fully furnished homes, flexible tenancy periods, and all-inclusive bills serve as great conveniences. Besides studies, the student life in Waterloo is simple yet fulfilling and is largely influenced by the city's strong tech ecosystem and innovation-driven culture. Districts like Uptown Waterloo and the University are loved mostly because they are easily walkable, safe, and have numerous study-friendly cafes. Waterloo delivers a balanced lifestyle built around learning and everyday convenience.
143 Columbia Ave, Waterloo
185 King St. N., Waterloo
Lester Lofts, Waterloo
Columbia, Waterloo
LEED on University, Waterloo
49 Columbia Street, Waterloo
King Street Towers, Waterloo
20 University, Waterloo
308 King, Waterloo
Sixty Two, Waterloo
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Waterloo a good place for students to live long-term?
Yes, and not just for studying. Student housing in Waterloo works well long-term because the city is built around students and innovation. Between co-op opportunities and a strong job market, many students in apartments in Waterloo end up staying even after graduation.
How competitive is it to find student housing in Waterloo?
It can get pretty competitive, especially near the University District. That’s why most students start early when looking for student housing in Waterloo. The best student apartments tend to get booked months in advance.
Are leases in Waterloo typically 12 months or flexible?
Most leases for student housing in Waterloo are 12 months, especially in purpose-built student buildings. However, some student apartments in Waterloo offer flexible or sublet options if you’re only staying for a term or co-op.
Do student apartments in Waterloo include utilities?
Many student apartments in Waterloo include utilities like water, heating, and Wi-Fi, but not always electricity. When booking student housing in Waterloo, it’s worth checking exactly what’s included so you can budget properly.
Can I find co-op friendly housing in Waterloo?
Yes, co-op flexibility is a big part of the market. Some student housing Waterloo options allow subletting or short-term leases, which works well if your study and work terms alternate.
What’s the difference between Waterloo student housing and private rentals?
Waterloo student housing is usually designed for students, so you’ll get furnished spaces, study areas, and community features. Private apartments in Waterloo may offer more independence but often require setting up utilities and furniture yourself.
Are there group living options in Waterloo?
Definitely. Many students rent shared student apartments Waterloo with friends to save money and stay social. It’s one of the most common setups within student housing in Waterloo.
Is it better to live near campus or in Uptown Waterloo?
If convenience is your priority, living near campus makes sense. But if you want more cafés, restaurants, and a social vibe, Uptown is a strong choice for student apartments in Waterloo.
How do I choose between different apartments for rent in Waterloo?
Start with your priorities, budget, commute, and lifestyle. Comparing multiple apartments for rent in Waterloo helps you figure out what actually fits your routine instead of just looking good on paper.
What should I check before signing a lease in Waterloo?
Before committing to Waterloo student apartments, check lease terms, including utilities, distance from campus, and cancellation policies. Taking the time to compare options within student housing in Waterloo can save you a lot of stress later.
Student Housing in Waterloo
Waterloo Student Housing
The energy of Waterloo is a very specific one. It’s not loud or flashy, but it’s intense, driven, & always buzzing. You can feel it in the late-night study sessions, in the coffee shop discussions about starting something new, & in the students here always building something. This is what makes Waterloo such a great student city. As a hub for the University of Waterloo & Wilfrid Laurier University, student housing in Waterloo is always in demand, & finding the right spot can really make a big difference.
It can be quite daunting when sifting through student apartments in Waterloo, but it does get easier when things are streamlined. With amber, you can search through verified and fully furnished apartments according to your budget and living preferences. Apartments like 100 Old Meadow Lane & McDougall Road are quite popular as they are well-balanced and offer the best of both worlds. Apartments for rent in Waterloo generally range from CA$700 to CA$2,000+, depending upon their proximity to the university campus. The idea is to find an apartment that works for you, not one that works against you.
About Waterloo
In Ontario, there is a medium-sized town called Waterloo that has about 125,000 residents. However, throughout the school year, this growing population increases dramatically due to the nearby university students; over 70,000 students live in the city. Education and research-driven industry serve as the foundation for this community, and are two of the many successful elements of this area. On an overall livability scale, Waterloo scores well with a safety index of 80, an employment rate at 79%, and a happiness index of 8.2. Most residential neighbourhoods surrounding the campus offer high levels of walkability, with over 8 for most areas in proximity to their universities or places where students often congregate.
From an academic perspective, it houses some of the best universities in Canada and is particularly known for its engineering and computer science programs with co-op opportunities that provide direct access to the industry. From an external perspective, Waterloo has a relatively well-rounded lifestyle. There’s always something to do with the number of parks and local events, not to mention the proximity to Toronto for a quick getaway if you need to look for some of the best places to visit in Canada.
Best Student Apartments in Waterloo
Choosing the correct Waterloo student apartments comes down to your lifestyle. Some students prioritise proximity to campus, while others focus on space, amenities, or quieter surroundings. Finding student housing in Waterloo involves navigating a competitive market with many options near the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. Here are some of the best student apartments Waterloo options:
1. MyRez On Lester - From CA$5300 per month (for an entire 5-bedroom suite)
2. 131 University - From CA$2319 per month
3. 20 University - From CA$2150 per month
4. The Hub Geowave - From CA$1833 per month
5. 308 King - From CA$1240 per month
Affordable Student Housing in Waterloo
If you’re trying to keep costs under control, there are still plenty of practical options available. These student housing Waterloo choices are popular among students who want affordability without sacrificing convenience.
1. Bridgeport House - From CA$717 per month
2. Preston House - From CA$717 per month
3. Fergus House - From CA$732 per month
4. Hespeler House - From CA$732 per month
5. King Street Towers - From CA$750 per month
Best Areas to Live in Waterloo
Where you live in Waterloo will shape how your day flows, especially during busy academic terms. Some of the best places to live in Canada keep you close to everything, while others give you more breathing room.
| Area | Student Vibe | Commute to Universities | Avg Rent (p/m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University District | Student-heavy, lively, close to campus | 5-10 mins walk | CA$900-CA$1,800 |
| Uptown Waterloo | Social, cafes, restaurants | 10-15 mins walk | CA$1,000-CA$2,000 |
| Northdale | Budget-friendly student area | 5-10 mins walk | CA$800-CA$1,400 |
| Westmount | Quiet and residential | 15-20 mins bus | CA$900-CA$1,600 |
| Laurelwood | Peaceful, suburban feel | 20 mins bus | CA$800-CA$1,300 |
Room Types for Student Apartments in Waterloo
Students looking for student housing in Canada will find a variety of room types in Waterloo, depending on their preferences. Student housing in Waterloo includes off-campus apartments, houses, and shared accommodations.
1. Studio Apartments
Fully private units with kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.
2. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments
Ideal for sharing with a friend while maintaining independence.
3. Shared Apartments
Private bedrooms with shared common areas, offering a social setup.
4. Private Rooms
A flexible option combining privacy with shared living.
Cost of Living in Waterloo
Waterloo is more affordable than cities like Toronto, but costs can still add up if you’re not keeping track. On average, students spend between CA$1,700 and CA$2,500 per month, excluding rent.
1. Accommodation: CA$700-CA$1,600 per month
2. Food & Groceries: CA$250-CA$400 per month
3. TV/Subscriptions: CA$10-CA$30 per month
4. Mobile Phone: CA$40-CA$70 per month
5. Clothes: CA$60-CA$120 per month
6. Leisure: CA$100-CA$200 per month
7. Books/Stationery: CA$50-CA$100 per month
8. Travel: CA$90-CA$130 per month
Student Travel in Waterloo
Getting around Waterloo is relatively easy, especially if you’re living near campus or Uptown.
1. Buses & ION Light Rail: The Grand River Transit (GRT) service includes bus and light rail (ION) services connecting Waterloo and Kitchener & areas. The fare for a single ride is around CA$3.75, and a monthly pass is around CA$90-CA$120. Students may have free transit passes as part of their university fees.
2. Cycling: Waterloo is bike-friendly, especially around campus zones. Many apartments in Waterloo offer bike storage, and maintenance costs typically range from CA$10 to CA$20 per month.
3. Walking: Most student-heavy areas are within walking distance of campus, making this one of the easiest ways to get around daily.
4. Ride-Sharing: Uber & Lyft are available across the city and are useful for late-night or longer trips.
Student Lifestyle and Tourist Attractions in Waterloo
Student life in Waterloo feels focused during the week and social when you need it to be. It’s a city where people take their studies seriously but still make time to relax. For food, spots like Bauer Kitchen & Works Gourmet Burger Bistro are popular choices. Pubs such as The Duke of Wellington & Molly Bloom’s Irish Pub are great for casual evenings, while places like Phil’s Grandson’s Place & Dallas Nightclub bring a bit of nightlife into the mix.
Cafes like Princess Cafe & Settlement Co. are ideal for study sessions or meeting friends. When you need a break, Waterloo Park & Laurel Creek Conservation Area offer green space close to most student housing in Waterloo. Daily essentials are easy to manage with Sobeys and Walmart Supercentre nearby, along with Shoppers Drug Mart & Grand River Hospital for healthcare. Cultural spots like the Theatre of the Arts and the City of Waterloo Museum add variety to student life, offering events, exhibitions, & performances throughout the year.
Top Universities in Waterloo
Choosing apartments near University of Waterloo helps you stay close to one of Canada’s leading academic hubs.
| University | Rank / Recognition | Popular Courses |
|---|---|---|
| University of Waterloo | Globally recognised for tech and co-op programmes | Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | Known for business and arts programmes | Business, Economics, Psychology |
| Conestoga College | Career-focused education | IT, Business, Health Sciences |