Hamilton is one of the most exciting student cities in Canada right now. Home to McMaster University — one of the country's leading medical-doctoral research universities — and Mohawk College, the city has a student population of over 45,000 and a rapidly evolving urban identity that has made it an increasingly desirable destination for students who want an affordable, culturally interesting place to live.
Student housing near McMaster University is concentrated in the Westdale neighbourhood, a charming, walkable village directly adjacent to campus with cafes, restaurants, and a distinctly academic atmosphere. The downtown Hamilton core along James Street North is a growing arts and dining hub, and many upper-year students migrate there as they settle into city life. Purpose-built student housing in Westdale and near campus fills quickly, particularly between January and March for the following September.
Hamilton's most compelling selling point for students is affordability. Rents near McMaster are significantly lower than in Toronto, and the cost of living across the board — groceries, dining, entertainment — reflects a city that hasn't yet caught up to Toronto pricing. For students on a budget, Hamilton is one of the most financially comfortable student cities in Ontario.
The Toronto connection makes Hamilton even more attractive. The GO Train runs between Hamilton and Toronto's Union Station in under an hour, and regular bus service covers the route as well. Students who want access to Toronto's internship market, concert venues, or professional networks can reach the city comfortably for day trips or co-op placements, then return to the lower cost of living that Hamilton offers.
McMaster University's academic reputation is strongest in health sciences, engineering, and business. The DeGroote School of Business and the Faculty of Health Sciences produce graduates who are in demand nationally and internationally. McMaster's problem-based learning model, particularly in medicine, attracts students who want a more active, hands-on academic experience than traditional lecture-based programs.
Hamilton's arts and culture scene has undergone a genuine renaissance over the past decade. James Street North hosts a monthly Art Crawl that draws thousands of visitors, and the city's industrial heritage has spawned a thriving creative community of studios, galleries, and independent restaurants that give it a character distinct from any other Ontario city.
The city is set on the Niagara Escarpment, which means waterfalls — over 100 of them within the city limits. The Bruce Trail runs along the escarpment, and outdoor enthusiasts will find hiking, cycling, and conservation areas right at the edge of campus. It's an unusual and genuinely special feature of Hamilton that most people don't know about until they arrive.
For students seeking student housing near McMaster University or Mohawk College, prioritise the Westdale neighbourhood for proximity and community. All-inclusive furnished suites in purpose-built student housing are the most practical option for students arriving from out of town or navigating the rental market for the first time. Canadian Student Living's Hamilton communities are designed for exactly this need.