Guelph is one of Ontario's most liveable student cities — compact, walkable, surrounded by green space, and anchored by the University of Guelph, which consistently ranks among Canada's top comprehensive universities. With a student population of approximately 30,000, the University of Guelph shapes the character of the city in a way that makes Guelph feel genuinely built for students rather than simply adjacent to them.
Student housing near the University of Guelph is in consistent demand. The Old University neighbourhood, Edinburgh Road, and the Stone Road area closest to campus are the most sought-after locations for purpose-built student housing. Being within walking or cycling distance of campus is a significant quality-of-life advantage in a city where the campus itself is a major destination for dining, recreation, and social life.
The University of Guelph has world-class programs in agriculture, food science, veterinary medicine, biological sciences, environmental studies, and business. The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) is the only veterinary school in Ontario and one of the top in the world, drawing students from across Canada and internationally. For students in the life sciences, animal health, or food systems, Guelph is arguably the most compelling destination in the country.
Guelph's size is one of its best features. At around 140,000 people, it is large enough to have a real city — restaurants, shops, arts venues, coffee shops — but small enough that you learn it quickly, get around easily, and build genuine community with other students. The downtown core along Wyndham Street and Macdonell Street is lively, independent-business-oriented, and thoroughly student-friendly.
The Stone Road Mall area, just south of campus, is the practical commercial hub for most students — groceries, pharmacy, banking, and everyday needs are all accessible within a short walk of most student housing communities in that corridor. The Saturday Guelph Farmers' Market, held in the historic downtown market building, is one of the best in Ontario and a weekly ritual for many students.
Guelph is well-connected by GO Transit to Toronto's Union Station, with train service taking approximately 1.5 hours. This makes day trips to Toronto practical for students who want access to the city's internship market, entertainment, or professional networks without paying Toronto rents. Many students use this connection for co-op placement interviews and industry events throughout the year.
The Guelph community has a strong environmental and sustainability ethic — the university itself is one of Canada's most sustainability-focused campuses, and that culture extends into the city. Cycling infrastructure is good, local food culture is strong, and students interested in environmental and food systems issues will find a community of like-minded people across both campus and city.
For students seeking student housing in Guelph near the University of Guelph, secure your suite early — the September market tightens quickly, and purpose-built options close to campus are the first to fill. All-inclusive furnished student housing removes the complexity of setting up a new home in a new city, and the community of fellow students in a purpose-built building is one of the most effective ways to build your social foundation quickly. Canadian Student Living's Guelph communities are positioned to give students exactly that.