When you arrive in a new country to study English, everything feels unfamiliar: the language, the culture, the weather—and definitely the housing system. If you’re an ESL student in Regina, you’re probably here to focus on your future, improve your language skills, and make the most of your time in Canada.

But here’s what most ESL students don’t expect:

Finding a place to live can be just as stressful as adjusting to a new language.

Let’s be honest—most student housing advice isn’t made for ESL students. This guide changes that.

 

What Makes Regina a Top Destination for ESL Students?

Regina might not be as famous as Toronto or Vancouver, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It offers:

  •  Affordable living

  •  Friendly, smaller community

  •  Less distraction, more focus

  •  High-quality ESL programs at places like the University of Regina ESL Department or private language schools

But while tuition and transportation may be manageable, the housing process can feel overwhelming, especially for students arriving from overseas with no network.

 

Here’s What ESL Students in Regina Wish They Knew Earlier

1. Facebook Rentals Aren’t Always Safe

Many students join Facebook groups to find rooms. Some listings are real—but others are outdated, vague, or worse—scams.

2. Furnished Rooms Are Rare

Most private rentals are empty. That means students must buy a bed, desk, chair, kitchen tools, and even curtains. For an ESL student here for 6–8 months, this makes no sense.

3. Leases Are Often Rigid and Long

Traditional landlords expect a 12-month lease. ESL programs are usually shorter—3 to 8 months. That mismatch can be costly.

4. You Might Not Be Taken Seriously

Some landlords hesitate to rent to students without Canadian credit, income proof, or fluent English. This creates a frustrating loop for international students.

 

Why Co-Living is a Better Fit for ESL Students

Co-living is designed for people in transition—students, interns, travelers—who want comfort, safety, and community without long-term stress.

Harrington offers co-living solutions in Regina that directly solve ESL student pain points:

  •  Private furnished rooms

  •  Shared kitchen and living space

  •  Utilities and Wi-Fi included

  •  Flexible lease lengths (starting from 4 months)

  •  Online booking before arrival

  •  Community of other international students

It’s a simplified, supportive housing model for students whose lives don’t fit the mold of traditional renting.

 

Best Neighborhoods in Regina for ESL Students

Wascana Centre / University Area

  • Close to language schools and the U of R campus

  • Easy transit access

  • Safe, student-oriented, walkable

Downtown Regina

  • Close to everything—coffee shops, groceries, bus lines

  • Great if you're taking classes near Saskatchewan Polytechnic

  • Easy to meet other newcomers

 

Mistakes ESL Students Should Avoid

  •  Booking a room without knowing if furniture is included

  •  Paying in cash or to a stranger before seeing a real contract

  •  Signing a 12-month lease when your program is only 5 months

  •  Underestimating how far “cheap” housing is from school

  •  Living alone and feeling isolated

 

What a Harrington Co-Living Move-In Looks Like

You arrive in Regina from overseas. Instead of staying in a motel or Airbnb:

  • You walk into a clean, furnished room

  • Your roommates are international students like you

  • Your utilities and Wi-Fi are already working

  • You’re ready to start class the next day

No shopping for furniture. No lease panic. No roommate roulette.

 

Real Stories from ESL Students

“I was scared of renting in a new country. Harrington made it easy. I booked online and moved in the same week I arrived.”
— Miho, Japan

“My program was just 4 months. Harrington was the only place I found that didn’t require a 1-year lease.”
— Daniel, Brazil

 

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Housing Get in the Way of Your ESL Journey

Learning English in Canada is a life-changing opportunity. You should be focused on school—not fighting with landlords, buying furniture, or worrying about roommates.

Harrington’s co-living options in Regina give ESL students:

  • A furnished home

  • A supportive student environment

  • Flexible terms

  • Peace of mind

 

Explore ESL-friendly rooms in Regina now:
Find your room with Harrington