Starting university is a big deal. Between buying textbooks, figuring out your class schedule, and mastering the art of making friends in lecture halls, there’s one question that can make or break your student experience: Where should you live?
While on-campus housing offers some key conveniences, off-campus rentals provide a unique blend of freedom, comfort, and value that many students appreciate. Let’s take a look at some of the major considerations.
Freedom & Flexibility
On-campus housing can be great for first-year students who benefit from built-in structure, residence assistants, and social programming to ease your transition into student life. But it often comes with a laundry list of rules: guest restrictions, curfews, and sharing a space the size of a shoebox with someone you just met.
Off-campus? It’s your space, your schedule. Want to stay up late working on a group project or binge-watching a show? No problem. Want to host a cozy dinner party or keep things totally chill? You’re in charge. It’s grown-up living — with the perks of still being close to campus. And let's be honest, sometimes you'll appreciate the peace and quiet to focus, recharge, and enjoy some downtime.
Cost
Let’s talk money. On-campus housing typically bundles costs like internet, utilities, and sometimes meal plans into one flat fee — making budgeting simple. But dorm rooms can be surprisingly expensive for what you get — a shared room, communal showers, and a meal plan that may or may not match your cravings.
Off-campus rentals can offer better long-term value. With Avenue Living, you can find affordable rental suites that fit a student budget — especially if you're splitting rent with roommates or prefer cooking your own meals. You’ll also have more options when it comes to choosing the size and layout that works best for you.
Local Life
Living on campus gives you easy access to university clubs, student organizations, and spontaneous events happening nearby.
Off-campus living, on the other hand, invites you to explore the broader city. You’ll get to know your neighbourhood, discover local cafes, shops, and study spots, and enjoy more diverse experiences — all while still staying connected to campus when you need to.
Proximity To Campus
There’s no question: on-campus housing is close — often just steps away from your classes, labs, and the library.
But don’t count out off-campus options. Many Avenue Living properties are located within a short walk, bike ride, or bus trip from major campuses. You’ll still make it to that 8 a.m. lecture with time for coffee — and enjoy the added bonus of a comfortable, private space to recharge when the school day is done.
The Verdict
Dorm life might sound like the classic rite of passage, but for many students, off-campus living offers a lot more freedom, value, and balance — especially when your apartment is just blocks from campus. Student life is better when you’ve got room to live it.
Avenue Living has dozens of student-friendly options near major campuses across the Prairies. Some even offer student-specific promos like $100 off rent — connect with our team to find out what’s currently available!
Ready to ditch dorm life? Your off-campus apartment awaits.