Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a student at Western University (UWO). While first-year students are typically housed in residence, most upper-year, graduate, and international students choose to live off-campus. With thousands of students making this transition each year, understanding the off-campus housing landscape is critical to finding a safe, affordable, and convenient home away from home.
This article explores everything you need to know about off-campus housing at UWO—from popular neighborhoods and housing types to rental prices, tips for finding a good place, uwo off campus and your rights as a student tenant in Ontario.
Why Move Off-Campus?
Living off-campus comes with many benefits:
Increased independence: Cook your own meals, set your own schedule, and enjoy more personal space.
More room and privacy: Off-campus units often provide more square footage and flexibility than residence.
Living with friends: Choose your own roommates and build a living arrangement that works for you.
Financial flexibility: Depending on where you live, off-campus housing can be more affordable than residence.
For students staying in London during the summer for work or co-op, having a 12-month lease is also more practical than residence, which typically closes for the summer.
Popular Student Neighborhoods Near Western
London is a student-friendly city, and many neighborhoods around UWO cater specifically to student renters.
1. Broughdale / Richmond North
Distance to campus: 2–5 minutes on foot
Who lives here: Mostly undergraduates
Vibe: Social, busy, and often party-centric
Pros: Closest to campus, high energy
Cons: Can be noisy, especially during events like Homecoming
2. Western Road / Sarnia Road Corridor
Distance to campus: 10–15 minutes walking
Who lives here: Upper-year undergrads and some graduate students
Vibe: Balanced between academics and social life
Pros: Lots of housing options, very student-oriented
Cons: High demand, some units are older
3. Masonville
Distance to campus: 10–20 minutes by bus
Who lives here: Graduate students and quiet-seeking undergrads
Vibe: Quieter, residential
Pros: Near shopping centers, clean and safe
Cons: Not walkable to campus
4. Downtown London
Distance to campus: 20–30 minutes by bus
Who lives here: Students who also work or enjoy city life
Vibe: Urban and diverse
Pros: Close to amenities, nightlife, part-time jobs
Cons: Long commute, more distractions
5. Old North / Huron Heights
Distance to campus: 15–30 minutes
Who lives here: Serious students and families
Vibe: Quiet, green, and residential
Pros: Peaceful, great for studying
Cons: Less student-focused, limited nightlife
Types of Off-Campus Housing
Students can choose from a range of housing types depending on their lifestyle, budget, and preferences:
Shared Houses: Students rent private rooms in a house and share kitchen, bathrooms, and living space. This is the most common and cost-effective option.
Student Apartments: Often found near campus or in downtown buildings. May be furnished and managed by student-focused landlords.
Basement Units: Rented units in private homes. Usually more affordable but may have limited light or space.
Condos and Townhouses: Higher-end rentals offering more privacy and sometimes additional amenities.
Room Rentals in Private Homes: Often suitable for international or exchange students looking for a quiet, homelike environment.
Rent Prices (2025 Averages)
Rental prices vary by location, housing type, and whether utilities are included:
Room in Shared House: $650–$850/month
1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,300–$1,700/month
2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,600–$2,200/month
Basement Suite: $900–$1,200/month
Luxury Student Apartments: $1,200–$1,800/month (per person)
Don’t forget to factor in utilities (heat, water, electricity, internet), which can add $100–$200/month if not included.
How to Find Off-Campus Housing
Start your search early—January to March is the peak season for securing housing for the upcoming academic year. Here are trusted places to look:
Places4Students: Western’s official off-campus housing partner
Facebook Groups: “Western Off-Campus Housing,” “Western Sublets,” etc.
Rentals.ca
Kijiji London
Local Property Management Sites: Varsity Properties, Domus, Exclusive Rentals
Always be cautious of rental scams. Never send money before confirming the legitimacy of the property. Ask for a virtual tour if you can’t view the place in person.
Tips for a Successful Off-Campus Experience
Visit the Property: In person or virtually, always view the unit before signing a lease.
Choose Roommates Carefully: Shared values on cleanliness, noise, and study habits matter.
Read Your Lease Thoroughly: Know the terms, especially about deposits, subletting, and maintenance.
Document the Condition: Take photos at move-in to avoid disputes later.
Budget Wisely: Consider rent, utilities, groceries, furniture, and transit costs.
Know Your Rights as a Student Tenant
In Ontario, students renting off-campus are fully protected under the Residential Tenancies Act. Your rights include:
A clean, safe, and well-maintained home
Proper notice (24 hours) for landlord entry
Protection from illegal rent increases or eviction
The right to dispute issues through the Landlord and Tenant Board
Western also offers support through its Off-Campus Housing Services, which can help with lease reviews, housing disputes, and general advice.
Final Thoughts
Living off-campus is a major step in your university journey. It offers freedom, life experience, and the chance to build your own routines. Whether you're sharing a house near campus, renting an apartment downtown, or settling into a quiet neighborhood, Western’s off-campus housing market has something for everyone.
With early planning, careful research, and a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities, you can find a safe, affordable, and enjoyable place to live that enhances your time at Western.
