Moving to Ottawa for your studies? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of international students arrive in Canada’s capital to attend institutions like the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Algonquin College, and various language or exchange programs. But while you may already have your study permit and classes sorted out, there’s one thing no one really warns you about:

Renting a room in Ottawa can be confusing, time-consuming, and unnecessarily stressful—especially if you’re new to Canada.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the truth about student housing in Ottawa—what to expect, what to avoid, and how co-living is quietly becoming the go-to solution for smart students who want a stress-free living experience.

 

Welcome to Ottawa — A Student City in Disguise

Ottawa may be known for its government buildings, Parliament Hill, and historic charm—but beneath that formal exterior is a city with a growing, vibrant student population. The University of Ottawa alone enrolls over 40,000 students, with Carleton adding another 30,000+.

While it’s less chaotic than Toronto or Montreal, Ottawa’s housing market is still competitive, fragmented, and unpredictable—especially in neighborhoods close to campus.

 

What No One Tells You About Renting a Room Here

Here’s what many students wish they had known before trying to rent in Ottawa:

1. Most Rooms Are Unfurnished

Many private rentals in Ottawa come completely empty. That means you’ll need to buy a bed, desk, lamp, dresser—and sometimes even appliances. For an international student who just landed, this is a logistical nightmare.

2. You May Need a Canadian Guarantor or Credit History

Landlords often ask for proof of income, local references, or a Canadian co-signer—something most new students simply don’t have.

3. Leases Are Long and Inflexible

A typical apartment lease in Ottawa is 12 months. This doesn’t work for exchange students, short-term language programs, or anyone unsure about staying a full year.

4. Shared Living Can Feel Unstable

Facebook and Kijiji are full of roommate ads—but verifying safety, cleanliness, and reliability can be risky business. Many students end up in mismatched roommate situations they regret.

 

Why Co-Living is a Smart Move in Ottawa

Co-living is a modern housing concept built for people who want to live independently but within a community—and without the headaches of traditional rentals.

Harrington’s co-living units in Ottawa are specifically designed for students, and include:

  •  Private furnished bedrooms

  •  Shared kitchens and common areas

  •  All utilities and Wi-Fi included in rent

  • Flexible lease lengths (semester-based or longer)

  •  Online booking (no in-person visits required)

It’s the kind of student housing that actually understands the student experience.

 

Best Neighborhoods for Students in Ottawa

Here’s where most students end up living—and what you need to know about each area:

Sandy Hill

  • Walking distance to University of Ottawa

  • Quiet, safe, academic vibe

  • Can be expensive for solo rentals

Glebe

  • Stylish, central, and close to Carleton

  • Great cafes, vintage shops, and study spots

  • Co-living options are limited, but growing

Centretown

  • Well-connected via transit

  • More affordable than the inner core

  • A good balance of residential + social life

 Little Italy / Preston Street

  • Trendy and vibrant

  • Close to O-Train and Carleton

  • Ideal for students who want more energy

 

Common Housing Mistakes First-Timers Make

  • Paying deposits before seeing contracts

  • Assuming furniture is included

  • Not checking commute times to campus

  • Taking a year-long lease without knowing your full schedule

  • Living too far from campus to save a few dollars

Many of these can be avoided with the right guidance or by choosing a platform-based co-living provider that handles the logistics for you.

 

A Typical Move-In Experience with Harrington

Instead of this:

  • Searching 50+ listings

  • Messaging unresponsive landlords

  • Coordinating furniture delivery

  • Calling utility companies

You get this:

  • Book online from abroad

  • Arrive to a clean, furnished room

  • Wi-Fi already working

  • Roommates pre-screened and age-appropriate

  • Community managers ready to support you

It’s student living reimagined.

 

What Real Students Say

“I moved from Lebanon to study at uOttawa and didn’t know where to start. Harrington made it so simple. I booked my room online, and it was ready when I got here.”
— Leya, U of O

“What I loved most was the flexibility. I wasn’t locked into a full year, and my room was actually better than the photos.”
— Carlos, Exchange Student

 

Final Thoughts: Renting Smart in Ottawa

Ottawa is a beautiful, walkable, safe city with a lot to offer students. But housing can either support your success—or drain your time, money, and energy.

Choosing a fully furnished, co-living space with Harrington helps you start strong and focus on what really matters: your studies, your friendships, and your future.

 

Book your student room in Ottawa now:
Explore Harrington Rooms in Ottawa