Guide to Off-Campus Living for Western University Students

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Choose Off-Campus Housing in London, Ontario
• Pros & Cons of Living Off-Campus
• Popular Student Rental Areas Near Western University
• Types of Student Rentals in London
• What to Look For in a Student Apartment
• How to Find the Best Deals on Student Rentals
• Average Rent Prices in London, Ontario
• Student Sublets and Short-Term Rentals in London Ontario
• Lease Terms & Student Rights
• Tips for First-Time Renters
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Introduction

If you’re a student heading to Western University or University of London Ontario, chances are you’ve been hit with the big question: Where the heck am I going to live? The good news? You’ve got options—tons of them. From cozy bachelor pads to slick luxury student apartments, London, Ontario has a whole ecosystem of student rentals built to fit every personality (and budget).

So, whether you’re after the social buzz of shared housing or the privacy of your own apartment, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of student rentals in London, plus sprinkle in some hard-learned lessons and local secrets.

Why Choose Off-Campus Housing in London, Ontario

Living off-campus isn’t just about ditching dorm rules—it’s about freedom, independence, and maybe even saving a bit of cash (yes, really). London, Ontario is a student-centric city, and it’s designed to make life easier (and way more fun) for tenants like you.

Need convincing?

• You’re not tied to campus food plans
• You can choose who you live with
• Real-world renting experience? ✅
• More housing variety = better chances of landing your dream space

And with strong neighborhoods surrounding Western like Old North, Masonville, and University Heights, you’re never far from class—or from downtown London nightlife.

Pros & Cons of Living Off-Campus

Let’s be real for a sec. Off-campus living isn’t just Spotify playlists and kitchen dance parties. It has its ups and downs.

Pros:

• Freedom to cook, clean, and come/go as you please
• More affordable long-term (especially shared rentals)
• More spacious than dorm rooms
• Choose your housemates and decor

Cons:

• Commute time (even if it’s 5-15 mins)
• You’re responsible for bills & utilities
• Less social structure than residence life
• Finding the right spot can be competitive

Still with us? Great—you’re definitely off-campus material.

Popular Student Rental Areas Near Western University

When it comes to student housing London Ontario, location is everything. Here’s a quick rundown of top rental hotspots for Western students:

1. Richmond Row / Downtown Core

Great for students who love being close to nightlife, shopping, and transit routes.

2. Masonville

Popular among upper-year and graduate students. It’s quiet, upscale, and near Masonville Place Mall.

3. Old North

A charming, mature neighborhood full of houses rented by students.

4. University Heights & Huron

Tons of townhouses and apartment complexes packed with student energy.

Types of Student Rentals in London

You’ve got choices. And no, it’s not just dingy basements with weird carpet.

Shared Houses

Think: large home, 4-6 students, shared kitchen and common spaces. Great for extroverts.

Student Apartments

Can range from small one-bedroom units to full suites in luxury student living London complexes.

Room Rentals

Perfect if you’re just looking for a place to crash that’s furnished and flexible.

Sublets & Short-Term Leases

Ideal for summer students or exchange students. (More on this below.)

What to Look For in a Student Apartment

Choosing the right place means balancing budget, location, and vibes. Here’s your quick checklist:

• Distance to campus (check for a direct bus route or bike path)
• All-inclusive rent vs. utilities separate
• Laundry (in-unit or at least on-site)
• Internet speed (this is non-negotiable in 2025)
• Responsive landlord
• Safety of the neighborhood
• Lease flexibility and sublet policies

Trust us, these details make or break your semester.

How to Find the Best Deals on Student Rentals

You’re a student—not a landlord. So let’s keep it smart:

• Start early: February/March is prime time for September leases
• Join Facebook groups like “Western Off-Campus Housing”
• Check UWO’s official off-campus listings
• Use platforms like PadMapper, Rentfaster, or Kijiji
• Don’t skip viewings—photos lie
• Negotiate rent if the unit’s been on the market a while

Bonus tip: Room with friends. Splitting a 2 bedroom apartment for rent in London Ontario can be cheaper than renting solo.

Average Rent Prices in London, Ontario

Here’s a quick peek at what rent looks like in the student housing game:

Student Sublets and Short-Term Rentals in London Ontario

Not everyone’s sticking around all year, and that’s where sublets and short-term leases come in.

Where to find them?

• Western student housing groups
• Sublet boards (Sublet.com, Kijiji, Facebook)
• Word of mouth on campus bulletin boards

Pro tip: Always ask if utilities are included and get everything in writing—even if you’re just there for 3 months.

Lease Terms & Student Rights

Don’t sign blindly. Know what you’re getting into.

Important Lease Clauses to Watch:

• Length (12-month vs. 8-month options)
• Subletting rules
• Damage deposit (first & last month rent is standard)
• Maintenance expectations
• Early termination penalties

And yes—you have rights! Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act protects students too. Landlords can’t evict you without cause, enter your unit without notice, or hike rent mid-lease.

Tips for First-Time Renters

Ready to adult? Here’s how to crush your first renting experience:

• Document everything (photos on move-in day are your BFF)
• Don’t skip reading the lease (even the boring parts)
• Meet your roommates first—group chats are helpful
• Budget for hidden costs (wifi, hydro, renters insurance)
• Keep your place clean—it’ll save you on repairs later
• Use e-transfer for rent—always leave a paper trail

Conclusion

There you have it: your ultimate roadmap to student rentals in London, Ontario. Whether you’re looking for Western housing off campus, luxury digs, or just a chill room with good WiFi, London has something for every type of student.

Moving out and navigating the wild west of real estate can feel overwhelming at first—but with the right info and mindset, it becomes a rite of passage. Your future self (and your GPA) will thank you for choosing the right space to live, study, and unwind.

FAQs

Q1: When should I start looking for off-campus housing in London, Ontario?
Start your search in February or March for September move-ins. The best spots go fast.

Q2: Is it cheaper to live off-campus near Western University?
In many cases, yes—especially if you’re splitting a house or 2-bedroom apartment with roommates.

Q3: Are utilities usually included in rent?
Sometimes. Always ask. If not, factor in $100–$200/month for hydro, water, internet, and heating.

Q4: Can international students rent apartments in London?
Absolutely. You might need to show proof of funds or a guarantor, but many landlords are open to student tenants.

Q5: What’s the best area for luxury student living in London?
Check out Masonville or downtown Richmond Row for high-end apartments near campus with modern amenities.