Western University, located in London, Ontario, is home to over 30,000 students from across Canada and around the world. With its beautiful campus, strong academic reputation, western university student housing and dynamic student community, it’s no surprise that housing is a major focus for students planning to attend or continue their studies here.
Whether you're a first-year student moving into residence or an upper-year student exploring off-campus options, understanding the student housing landscape at Western is key to having a successful university experience. This guide covers everything from residence life to off-campus living, including what to expect, how to prepare, and tips for finding the right fit.
On-Campus Housing: First-Year Student Residences
Western University guarantees residence for all first-year students who accept their offer of admission by the stated deadline. Living in residence offers a convenient, structured environment that helps new students adjust to university life both socially and academically.
Residence Options
Western has a variety of residence styles, including traditional dorms, suites, and hybrid models. Residences are grouped into three main categories:
Traditional Style (e.g., Saugeen-Maitland, Delaware)
Shared or single rooms
Communal bathrooms
Meal plan required
Suite Style (e.g., Ontario Hall)
Shared kitchens and living space
Semi-private or private bedrooms
Greater independence
Hybrid Style (e.g., Elgin Hall)
Mix of suite and traditional features
Good balance of privacy and community
Residence Life
Living in residence means more than just having a place to sleep. Students benefit from:
Residence Dons (upper-year mentors)
Academic support and study spaces
Social programming and events
Meal plans with flexible options
Security and maintenance services
For first-year students, residence is a great way to build friendships and adjust to the academic demands of university.
Upper-Year and Graduate Student Housing
While residence is mainly for first-year students, Western also offers limited housing options for upper-year, graduate, and international students through:
Lambton Hall (primarily graduate/upper-year students)
Western Apartments (townhouse-style living)
These options provide more independence and are often in high demand, so students should apply early.
Off-Campus Housing
The majority of Western students move off-campus after their first year. This gives them the opportunity to live with friends, have more space, cook their own meals, and experience greater independence.
Popular Student Neighbourhoods
Broughdale Avenue / Richmond North
Steps from campus
Lively, social, and party-heavy
Ideal for undergraduates who want to be close to the action
Western Road / Sarnia Road
Very close to campus
Filled with student rentals and shared houses
Balance of social life and convenience
Masonville
Quieter, upscale neighbourhood
Close to Masonville Mall and major bus routes
Preferred by upper-year and graduate students
Downtown London
Further from campus (20–30 min by bus)
Close to nightlife, work, and city amenities
Better suited for mature students or those with jobs
Old North / Huron Heights
Residential and peaceful
Ideal for students who value quiet study environments
Great access to parks and bike paths
Types of Off-Campus Housing
Students can choose from various housing formats:
Shared Student Houses: The most common choice, where students each have a private room and share the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas.
Apartments: One to three-bedroom apartments in student-oriented or mixed-use buildings.
Basement Suites: A more affordable option, often found in family homes.
Luxury Student Rentals: Professionally managed apartments with amenities like gyms, furnished rooms, and all-inclusive rent.
Room Rentals in Private Homes: Often available for international or exchange students, with rules set by the homeowner.
Average Rent Costs (2025 Estimates)
London remains relatively affordable compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver, though student rental prices are rising.
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 Rentals: $1,200–$1,800/month per room
Always check if rent includes utilities, internet, and parking, as these can add $100–$200/month.
Where to Find Housing
Start your housing search early, ideally between January and March for September move-in.
Recommended Platforms:
Places4Students.com: Western’s official housing listing partner
Facebook Groups: “Western Off-Campus Housing,” “Western Sublets,” etc.
Kijiji London
Rentals.ca
Local property managers (e.g., Varsity Properties, Domus, Exclusive Rentals)
Lease Tips and Tenant Rights
Before signing a lease, make sure to:
Read the lease in full
Understand your rights under Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act
Clarify lease length (most are 12 months)
Ask about subletting if you plan to leave for the summer
Take photos of the unit upon move-in
Request a written receipt for all payments
Students have the same legal rights as any tenant in Ontario. If you encounter problems, you can contact Western’s Off-Campus Housing Services for support.
Final Thoughts
Student housing at Western University offers a range of choices—from structured residence life to independent off-campus living. Your housing decision will shape your university experience, so it’s important to plan ahead, do your research, and know what you’re signing up for.
Whether you're a first-year student preparing to move into residence or an upper-year student looking for a shared house near campus, Western and the city of London provide a safe and welcoming environment with housing options to match every need and budget.