How to Choose the Right Student Housing in Montreal: Complete Guide

Montreal is a vibrant, multicultural city that attracts thousands of students from around the world. With its world-renowned universities like McGill University, Concordia University, Université de Montréal, and UQAM, the city offers high-quality education, a rich cultural life, and a student-friendly environment.

But one of the most important decisions for students moving to Montreal is
“Where should I live?”

Finding the right student housing in Montreal can make a big difference in your academic success, lifestyle, and overall happiness. This guide will walk you through all the key considerations to help you find the best fit.

Why Montreal Is a Top City for Students

Montreal is consistently ranked among the best cities in the world for students. It offers:

• Affordable cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities
• Bilingual environment (French and English)
• Thriving arts, food, and cultural scenes
• Safe and walkable neighborhoods
• Accessible public transportation (STM)

Most importantly, Montreal supports a diverse and inclusive student community, making it an ideal place to live and study.

Types of Student Housing in Montreal

There are several types of housing options available. Your choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and proximity to campus.

University Residences (On-Campus Housing)

Most universities in Montreal offer on-campus student residences, ideal for first-year students or international students new to the city.

Pros:

• Close to classes
• Utilities and Wi-Fi included
• Student support and community

Cons:

• Limited privacy
• Smaller living spaces
• Often more expensive than off-campus

Universities with residences:

• McGill University Residences
• Concordia Grey Nuns and Loyola Residences
• UdeM Pavillons
• UQAM Residences

Off-Campus Housing (Apartments & Studios)

Many students choose to rent an apartment or a studio off-campus. This offers more freedom, privacy, and space.

You can find

• Furnished or unfurnished apartments
• Studio or shared apartments
• Monthly rental leases or long-term contracts

Student Housing Companies & Co-living Spaces

A growing trend is professionally managed student housing by providers such as

• Stanza Living
• Places4Students
• University Living
• AmberStudent

These platforms help students book fully furnished apartments with amenities like Wi-Fi, housekeeping, study lounges, and fitness centers.

Best Neighborhoods for Students in Montreal

Choosing the right neighborhood can affect your commute, safety, and social life. Here are some popular student areas:

Plateau-Mont-Royal

Trendy, artsy, and walkable. Close to UQAM and McGill. Great for coffee shops, vintage stores, and nightlife.

Downtown Montreal (Ville-Marie)

Perfect for Concordia and McGill students. Central, bustling, and well-connected.

Côte-des-Neiges

Ideal for Université de Montréal students. Quiet, affordable, and multicultural.

NDG (Notre-Dame-de-Grâce)

Residential and family-friendly, but close to the Loyola Campus of Concordia.

How to Search for Student Housing in Montreal

Several tools and websites make the housing search easier:

• Kijiji and Craigslist—for local apartment listings
• Facebook Marketplace—Active with student sublets and room shares
• Places4Students.com—University-approved listings
• Stanza Living and AmberStudent—Book in advance from your home country

Always visit the property (if possible) or request a virtual tour to avoid scams.

Important Things to Consider Before Signing a Lease

Before you sign any lease, always check:

• Lease duration (12-month vs. short-term)
• What’s included (Wi-Fi, heat, electricity)
• Furnished or unfurnished
• Proximity to campus and metro stations
• Roommates (if applicable)
• Deposit and payment methods
• Building rules (quiet hours, guest policy)

If you’re an international student, ask whether the landlord accepts guarantor services or student proof of funds.

Furnished vs. Unfurnished Student Housing

Furnished Housing:

• Includes bed, table, chairs, kitchen appliances
• Ideal for international or exchange students

Unfurnished Housing:

• May be cheaper
• Requires buying or renting furniture separately

You can rent furniture from local stores or check Facebook groups for second-hand student deals.

International Students: What You Need to Know

Montreal is very welcoming to international students. But there are some specifics to keep in mind:

• Arrival date: Book housing before you arrive
• Immigration documents: Required for university residences
• Health insurance: Must be arranged before arrival
• Language barrier: Most landlords speak English, but French helps

Many international students also choose student housing platforms like AmberStudent or University Living to book verified, safe housing in advance.

Safety and Student Support

Montreal is considered one of the safest cities in North America. Still, when choosing housing:

• Check if the building has security cameras or doormen
• Well-lit streets and neighborhoods are safer
• Avoid basement apartments or very old buildings without smoke detectors

University support offices also provide:

• Legal advice on rental issues
• Housing orientation
• Emergency support services

High-Speed Internet and Amenities

As a student, having strong Wi-Fi, a study space, and peaceful surroundings is essential.

When browsing listings, look for:

• Free or included Wi-Fi
• Quiet hours or student-friendly rules
• Study desk in the room
• Access to laundry, kitchen, and public transport

Some student housing providers, like Stanza Living or Places4Students, include all of this in the rent.

Tips to Make Student Housing Life Better

• Join Facebook groups for student renters in Montreal
• Participate in university housing fairs
• Don’t rush—look at multiple listings
• Ask current students for advice
• Keep an emergency fund for rent and deposits
• Visit the neighborhood before signing

Choosing the right student housing in Montreal isn’t just about rent—it’s about lifestyle, comfort, and support. Whether you’re in a buzzing downtown loft, a quiet off-campus apartment, or a co-living space with fellow students, make sure it suits your academic goals and personal needs.

Conclusion

Finding the right student housing in Montreal is more than just securing a place to sleep—it’s about building the foundation for your academic journey and personal growth. From the bustling streets of Downtown to the cozy, residential charm of NDG, Montreal offers something for every student, whether you’re coming from across the country or halfway around the world.

By understanding your needs, doing thorough research, and using trusted resources like Stanza Living, AmberStudent, Places4Students, and University Living, you can avoid common pitfalls and find a place that feels like home. Whether you prefer the convenience of on-campus residences, the freedom of off-campus apartments, or the comfort of student-specific co-living spaces, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.