Ottawa is home to several major post-secondary institutions, making it a vibrant student city. If you're planning to study here or invest in rental property, understanding Where students live in Ottawa can help you make informed decisions.
Students typically choose neighbourhoods based on proximity to campus, affordability, transit access, and lifestyle. Whether attending university or college, Ottawa offers a wide range of housing options—from downtown apartments to shared homes in quieter suburbs.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular student neighbourhoods in Ottawa, housing options, average costs, and what makes each area unique.
Major Schools in Ottawa
Before exploring where students live, it’s important to understand the main institutions in the city.
The two largest universities are:
University of Ottawa (downtown campus)
Carleton University (south of downtown)
Ottawa is also home to:
Algonquin College (west end, near Nepean)
Each school influences nearby housing demand and student neighbourhoods.
Centretown: Downtown Living for Students
Centretown is one of the most popular areas when discussing Where students live in Ottawa.
Why Students Choose Centretown
Close to the University of Ottawa
Walkable to restaurants, shops, and nightlife
Easy access to public transit and LRT
Housing Options
Apartments and condos
Shared rentals
Older walk-up buildings
Centretown is ideal for students who want an urban lifestyle, though rent can be higher compared to other areas.
Sandy Hill: The Student Hub
Sandy Hill is widely considered Ottawa’s main student neighbourhood, especially for University of Ottawa students.
What Makes Sandy Hill Popular
Walking distance to campus
High concentration of student housing
Mix of houses and apartments
Housing Options
Shared homes
Duplexes and triplexes
Student rentals
Sandy Hill offers convenience and a strong student community atmosphere.
The Glebe: A Balanced Student Lifestyle
The Glebe is another desirable neighbourhood for students, particularly those attending Carleton University.
Why Students Like the Glebe
Close to Carleton University
Safe, residential feel
Access to shops and cafés
Housing Options
Shared homes
Basement apartments
Smaller rental units
The Glebe tends to be quieter and slightly more expensive but offers a great balance of lifestyle and location.
Old Ottawa South: Close to Carleton University
Old Ottawa South is located just across the Rideau River from Carleton University.
Key Benefits
Walking or biking distance to campus
Strong community feel
Access to parks and the Rideau Canal
Housing Options
Single-family homes rented to students
Basement units
Shared accommodations
This neighbourhood is ideal for Carleton students who prefer a quieter environment.
Hintonburg: Trendy and Growing
Hintonburg has become one of Ottawa’s trendiest neighbourhoods and is increasingly popular with students.
Why It’s Gaining Popularity
Access to LRT stations
Vibrant food and arts scene
Proximity to downtown
Housing Options
Apartments and condos
Shared rentals
Modern infill homes
Hintonburg appeals to students looking for a mix of lifestyle and convenience.
Nepean: Affordable Living Near Algonquin College
Students attending Algonquin College often live in Nepean.
Why Nepean Works for Students
Close to Algonquin College
More affordable rent
Suburban setting
Housing Options
Apartments
Townhouses
Basement rentals
Nepean is ideal for students who want lower housing costs and easy access to campus.
Vanier: Budget-Friendly Option
Vanier is often one of the more affordable neighbourhoods in Ottawa.
Why Students Consider Vanier
Lower rent compared to central areas
Close to downtown and University of Ottawa
Improving amenities
Housing Options
Apartments
Shared homes
Smaller rental units
Vanier can be a good option for students on a tighter budget.
Types of Student Housing in Ottawa
Students in Ottawa have several housing options depending on their budget and preferences.
On-Campus Residences
Both University of Ottawa and Carleton University offer residence options for first-year students.
Shared Houses
Many students rent houses with roommates to reduce costs.
Apartments and Condos
Students may rent apartments individually or share units with others.
Basement Units
Basement apartments are common and often more affordable.
Average Rent for Students in Ottawa
Rental prices vary depending on location and housing type.
Typical monthly costs include:
Room in shared house: $700 – $1,000
One-bedroom apartment: $1,400 – $2,000+
Bachelor/studio: $1,200 – $1,600
Prices are generally higher closer to downtown and major universities.
Transportation and Student Life
Public transit plays a major role in Where students live in Ottawa.
The city’s LRT system and bus routes make it easier for students to commute from different neighbourhoods.
Students living near transit hubs often have more flexibility when choosing where to live.
Tips for Finding Student Housing
If you're searching for student housing in Ottawa, consider the following tips:
Start your search early (especially for September leases)
Decide whether you want to live alone or with roommates
Consider proximity to campus and transit
Set a clear budget before searching
Visit properties in person when possible
Planning ahead can help you secure better housing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where do most students live in Ottawa?
Sandy Hill, Centretown, and areas near Carleton University are among the most popular student neighbourhoods.
2. What is the cheapest area for students in Ottawa?
Vanier and parts of Nepean tend to offer more affordable housing options.
3. Is Ottawa expensive for students?
It can be, especially near downtown, but there are more affordable options in suburban areas.
4. Do students need a car in Ottawa?
Not necessarily. Many students rely on public transit and biking.
5. When should students look for housing?
Most students begin searching several months before the school year starts, typically in spring or early summer.
6. Are utilities included in student rentals?
It depends on the rental. Some shared homes include utilities, while apartments may not.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Where students live in Ottawa can help both renters and investors make better decisions. From busy student hubs like Sandy Hill to quieter areas like Old Ottawa South, the city offers a variety of neighbourhoods to suit different lifestyles and budgets.
With strong demand driven by major universities and colleges, student housing continues to be an important part of Ottawa’s real estate market.
