Edmonton

๐ŸŽ“

Student Housing

Types of accommodation available for students, such as residence halls and off-campus housing.

Sections

1. On-Campus Housing

On-campus housing is a convenient option for students who want to live close to their university, enjoy a sense of community, and have access to campus facilities.

Options

  • University of Alberta Residences:
    • Residences include Lister Hall (traditional dormitory-style), Peter Lougheed Hall (modern dorms), and apartment-style options like HUB Mall and East Campus Village.
    • Graduate students can opt for Michener Park or other family-friendly housing options.
  • MacEwan University Residences:
    • Offers fully furnished apartment-style housing with options for shared or private bedrooms.
  • NAIT Residences:
    • NAIT does not have its own residences, but it partners with nearby housing providers to assist students.

Average Costs

  • Dormitory-style housing: CAD 5,000โ€“8,000 per academic year (8 months).
  • Apartment-style housing: CAD 6,000โ€“10,000 per academic year, depending on the type of room and amenities.

Lease Procedures

  • Most on-campus housing requires students to apply online through the universityโ€™s housing portal.
  • Applications typically open several months before the academic year begins (e.g., Januaryโ€“March for September intake).
  • A deposit is required to secure your spot, and contracts usually cover the academic year (8 months) or full year (12 months).

Proximity to Universities and Amenities

  • On-campus housing is located within walking distance of classes, libraries, gyms, and dining facilities.
  • Public transit (buses and the LRT) is easily accessible for exploring the city.

Advantages

  • Utilities (electricity, water, internet) are included in the rent.
  • Social and academic support is readily available.
  • No need to worry about commuting.

2. Off-Campus Housing

Off-campus housing is ideal for students who prefer more independence, privacy, or flexibility in their living arrangements.

Options

  • Shared Apartments or Houses:
    • Many students rent apartments or houses with roommates to split costs.
    • Popular neighborhoods for students include Garneau, Strathcona, Downtown, and Oliver.
  • Basement Suites:
    • Edmonton has a large number of basement suites, which are often more affordable and suitable for single students or couples.
  • Rental Apartments:
    • High-rise and low-rise apartments are available throughout the city, with varying price points depending on location and amenities.

Average Costs

  • Shared housing: CAD 400โ€“800 per month per person.
  • One-bedroom apartment: CAD 900โ€“1,300 per month.
  • Two-bedroom apartment: CAD 1,200โ€“1,800 per month (can be shared by two students).
  • Basement suites: CAD 700โ€“1,200 per month.

Lease Procedures

  • Most landlords require:
    • A signed lease agreement (typically 12 months, though shorter leases may be available).
    • A security deposit (usually equivalent to one monthโ€™s rent).
    • Proof of income or a guarantor (if you donโ€™t have a Canadian credit history).
  • Use platforms like RentFaster.ca, Kijiji, or Facebook Marketplace to find listings.
  • Always visit the property in person or request a virtual tour before signing a lease.

Proximity to Universities and Amenities

  • University of Alberta: Garneau and Strathcona neighborhoods are within walking distance or a short bus/LRT ride.
  • MacEwan University: Downtown and Oliver neighborhoods are nearby.
  • NAIT: Central McDougall and Queen Mary Park neighborhoods are close to campus.

Advantages

  • Greater variety of housing options.
  • Potentially lower costs if shared with roommates.
  • More flexibility in terms of location and lifestyle.

3. Practical Considerations

Transportation

  • Edmonton has an efficient public transit system, including buses and the Light Rail Transit (LRT).
  • A U-Pass (Universal Transit Pass) is included in tuition fees for most post-secondary institutions, giving students unlimited access to public transit.

Utilities

  • For off-campus housing, utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet) may or may not be included in the rent. Clarify this with your landlord.
  • Average utility costs: CAD 100โ€“200 per month, depending on the season and property size.

Weather

  • Edmonton experiences cold winters (temperatures can drop to -30ยฐC or lower). Ensure your housing has proper heating and insulation.
  • Proximity to public transit is crucial during winter months.

Cultural Considerations

  • Edmonton is a multicultural city with a welcoming attitude toward international students.
  • Many neighborhoods have grocery stores, restaurants, and cultural centers catering to diverse communities (e.g., Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern).
  • Be aware of tenant rights and responsibilities under Albertaโ€™s Residential Tenancies Act.

Safety

  • Edmonton is generally safe, but itโ€™s wise to research neighborhoods before renting. Areas close to universities are typically student-friendly and secure.

Furnishing

  • On-campus housing is usually furnished, but off-campus housing may not be.
  • Affordable furniture can be purchased from stores like IKEA, Walmart, or second-hand shops like Goodwill.

4. Tips for Finding Housing

  1. Start Early: Begin your search 3โ€“6 months before your move-in date, especially for off-campus housing.
  2. Budget Wisely: Factor in rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and other living expenses.
  3. Visit in Person: If possible, visit the property or request a virtual tour to avoid scams.
  4. Join Student Groups: Many universities have Facebook groups or forums where students post housing opportunities.
  5. Understand Your Lease: Read the lease agreement carefully, including clauses about subletting, repairs, and moving out.

5. Resources

By considering these options and tips, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to find suitable student housing in Edmonton. If you have further questions or need assistance with a specific aspect, feel free to ask!