When most people think of Calgary, they picture snow-capped mountains, Stampede festivities, or oil and gas headquarters. But for thousands of students—especially graduate and postgrad students—it’s also a place to start over, focus, and grow.

If you’re heading to University of Calgary, SAIT, or Bow Valley College for grad school or continuing studies, finding the right place to live is a big part of your success equation.

But here’s what no one tells you about renting a room in Calgary as a grad student:

It can be more difficult, expensive, and exhausting than it should be.

Let’s break it down.

 

Why Calgary Is an Ideal City for Grad Students—But Housing Isn’t Always

With its lower tuition costs, strong job market, and proximity to nature, Calgary attracts students from across Canada and around the world. But while it checks the box for academics and affordability, the student housing infrastructure hasn’t kept up.

If you’re a graduate student looking for something quiet, flexible, furnished, and professional, chances are the traditional rental market in Calgary won’t offer that easily.

 

Here’s What No One Tells You About Renting in Calgary

1. Most Rentals Are Designed for Long-Term Locals

The Calgary housing market favors year-long leases and unfurnished apartments. As a grad student who might only need 6–8 months—or who’s new to the city—you’re starting at a disadvantage.

2. Furnished Units Are Scarce or Overpriced

If you don’t want to buy furniture, your options are either:

  • Overpaying for an Airbnb-style short-term rental

  • Living in a basement suite with questionable furnishings

3. The Roommate Roulette Is Real

Finding a like-minded, mature roommate as a grad student is tough. Many ads on Facebook or Kijiji are written by undergrads—or are completely unreliable.

4. Commute Times Can Wreck Your Schedule

Living far from campus to “save money” can backfire when Calgary’s winters hit. You’ll want housing that’s strategically located.

 

Why Co-Living Solves All of These Problems for Grad Students

Co-living isn't just for 19-year-olds or undergrads. In fact, many grad students are quietly switching to co-living for its simplicity, convenience, and flexibility.

With Harrington, here’s what you get:

  •  Fully furnished private bedroom

  •  High-speed internet and all utilities included

  •  Flexible lease terms—semester or academic year

  •  Professionally cleaned shared spaces

  •  Quiet, respectful roommate matching

  •  Prime locations near U of C, SAIT, and transit lines

  •  No need for local references or credit history

Harrington is built for students, not landlords. And that makes a big difference.

 

Best Neighborhoods for Grad Students in Calgary

If you're balancing coursework, teaching assistant duties, or part-time work, these areas are ideal:

 

Brentwood

  • Close to University of Calgary

  • Transit-friendly and quiet

  • Perfect for academic focus

 

Kensington

  • A more social area with cafes and coworking spaces

  • Good for students balancing work and research

  • Well-connected via CTrain

 

Sunnyside / Hillhurst

  • Walkable and filled with essential amenities

  • Close to downtown and multiple schools

  • A smart choice for postgrads and researchers

 

What to Avoid When Renting as a Grad Student

  • Sharing with undergrads who party every weekend

  • Living in a basement unit with no natural light

  • Signing a full-year lease when you only need 6 months

  • Spending your first month buying furniture and dealing with Wi-Fi setup

Your academic life is intense enough. You shouldn’t be starting it with a housing headache.

 

What a Co-Living Move-In Looks Like

Imagine arriving in Calgary with your suitcase and walking into a clean, fully prepared room:

  • Your bed is made

  • Desk and chair are set

  • Wi-Fi is already working

  • Roommates are pre-screened

  • Kitchen is ready with cookware

  • The vibe? Quiet, respectful, and hassle-free

That’s the Harrington difference.

 

What Grad Students Say About Co-Living

“As a master’s student at SAIT, I just didn’t have time for drama or setup. Harrington gave me exactly what I needed—privacy, a desk, and peace.”
— Amir, SAIT

“I moved to Calgary for research and had no contacts in the city. Harrington felt like a soft landing. Clean, professional, and stress-free.”
— Kristina, UCalgary

 

Final Thoughts: Renting Smart as a Grad Student in Calgary

Being in grad school means you're serious about your future. Your housing should reflect that.

Choosing a co-living space with Harrington means:

  • Less stress

  • More focus

  • Better community

  • No wasted time or money

Because at this stage of your life, you’re not just renting a room—you’re building momentum.

 

Book your grad-friendly room in Calgary today:
Explore Harrington Rooms in Calgary