Waterloo is home to two of Canada's top-ranked universities — the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University — and a tech ecosystem that rivals Silicon Valley in per-capita density of innovation. For students, it's one of the most purposefully built student cities in the country, and it shows in every block.
The uptown Waterloo core is walkable, vibrant, and affordable by Canadian standards. King Street serves as the social and commercial spine of the city, running between both campuses and lined with restaurants, cafes, indie shops, and co-op offices. Whether you're grabbing lunch between lectures or meeting teammates for a late-night project session, everything you need is within easy reach.
Student housing near the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier is in high demand, and purpose-built options fill faster than most students expect. Properties along University Avenue, Lester Street, and King Street North put residents within a two-to-ten-minute walk of both campuses — eliminating the commute entirely. Canadian Student Living operates several communities in this corridor.
Transit in Waterloo is solid. The ION light rail connects Waterloo to Kitchener, and GRT buses run frequent routes across both campuses. Many students choose to walk or cycle, particularly in the fall and spring terms when the weather cooperates.
Waterloo's co-op culture defines the academic rhythm of the city. Students cycle between study and work terms, which means housing that offers flexible leases and professional management is far more practical than traditional 12-month private rentals. All-inclusive student housing removes the friction of setting up utilities for short stays.
Winters in Waterloo are cold but manageable. The underground tunnel system at the University of Waterloo connects most core academic buildings, so a significant portion of your winter commute can happen indoors. That said, invest in a proper winter coat and boots before October.
The food scene in Waterloo punches well above the city's size. Student-focused dining options are plentiful along King Street and around both campuses, from international cuisine to local favourites. Grocery costs are reasonable, and most student housing communities include kitchens so cooking at home is easy.
If you're choosing student housing in Waterloo, prioritise proximity to your campus and confirm whether your lease aligns with your co-op schedule. The best communities fill in the winter months, so begin your search in January or February for a September move-in. Canadian Student Living's Waterloo properties offer all-inclusive furnished suites steps from UW and Laurier.