Where to Stay in Montreal as an International Student: Temporary and Long-Term Options

Montreal Student Housing Rentals: A Starting Point

Moving to Montreal to study is exciting—but figuring out where to live as an international student can be overwhelming. Between different lease types, neighbourhoods, and student housing options, there’s a lot to take in. Whether you’re attending McGill University, Concordia, Université de Montréal, or HEC Montréal, this guide walks you through real, practical options for temporary and long-term stays in the city.

student housing, student accommodation, affordable housing

Conveniently Located Temporary Housing for Newcomers

When you first arrive, it’s often better to start with something short-term. That gives you time to learn the city, meet other students, and understand your budget.

Montreal Aparthotel is a solid choice. Their units are fully furnished, have bills included, and are conveniently located downtown near metro stations. It’s ideal for international students who need housing for a short period while they sort things out. You’ll be close to the underground city and restaurants and a short walk from both Concordia and McGill campuses.

Other options include:

  • Temporary listings on school housing pages

  • Sublets from other students (often furnished)

  • Short-term stays through Airbnb or hostels in downtown Montreal

Best Places to Live: Montreal Neighbourhoods for Students

You won’t find students living in glassy high-rises with concierge desks. You’ll find them where the rent is manageable, the food is good, and transit is reliable.

Downtown / Ville-Marie

You’re in the heart of the city here. Steps from Concordia University and a short metro ride or walk to McGill. Rent can be higher, but you’re close to everything—cafés, libraries, Notre-Dame Basilica, and Place des Arts. Many units are studios or shared apartments.

Plateau-Mont-Royal & Mile End

Loved for its character, Plateau has parks, bike lanes, cafés, and tons of shared units. It’s a top pick for students living off-campus who want charm and easy access to school. Great spots near Mont Royal Park, Saint Laurent, and Avenue Mont Royal.

Côte-des-Neiges

Close to Université de Montréal and HEC Montréal, this area offers more affordable housing. It’s quieter, has a good student community, and is linked well by metro. You’ll find shared housing, furnished units, and a mix of families and students.

Rosemont & Little Italy

More residential but still student-friendly. Ideal if you want a quieter place with good food, markets like Jean Talon, and cafés to study in. Great for international students who plan to stay long-term.

downtown montreal, student housing, affordable apartments

Long-Term Student Accommodation in Montreal

Once you're settled, it's time to move into something more permanent. Montreal has a variety of student apartments for rent, from studios to shared homes.

Where to search:

  • University bulletin boards

  • Facebook Marketplace or student groups

  • Classifieds (Kijiji, Rentals.ca)

Search using keywords like:

  • Montreal student housing rentals.

  • student apartments for rent in Montreal.

  • furnished student apartments in Montreal.

Expect to pay:

  • Shared room: $500–$800/month

  • Studio: $900–$1,300/month

  • 1-bedroom: $1,200 and up (depending on the neighbourhood)

Some places include utilities like electricity and internet; others don’t. Ask.

Campus Housing and What You’ll Need to Rent

The rental process is a bit different if you’re new to Canada, but not impossible. Most landlords will ask for:

  • Proof you’re a student (enrolment letter or student ID)

  • Passport or study permit

  • Some proof you can pay (bank balance, sponsor letter, or proof of scholarship)

  • First month’s rent up front

Without Canadian credit history, you might need a guarantor. But some landlords, especially those used to hosting international students, are flexible.

Tip: Many listings mention “references” and “credit checks”—if you don’t have those, explain your situation. It helps.

downtown montreal, neighborhoods, student housing

Lease Terms & Affordable Housing Flexibility

Montreal usually runs on 12-month leases, but students often find:

  • 8-month academic leases (Sept–May)

  • Month-to-month rentals for flexibility

  • Fully furnished shared apartments where leases are signed per room

Always check:

  • What’s included (heat? hot water? Wi-Fi?)

  • If subletting is allowed

  • If a deposit is refundable

Why Many Students Start with Montreal Aparthotel

If you’re just arriving, Montreal Aparthotel is a reliable starting point. Especially useful for:

  • First-year or exchange students

  • Students still apartment hunting

  • People in short courses or internships

It’s centrally located, bills are included, and their team understands how to help newcomers. You can even book online before you land.

Student Life in One of the World’s Best Cities

Montreal is one of the best cities in the world for students. Why?

  • Excellent transport links (metro, buses, and BIXI bikes)

  • A real mix of cultures and languages

  • Great food—from poutine to pho

  • An endless list of arts, festivals, and live music

Explore the Old Port, browse Sainte-Catherine Street, take a walk up Mount Royal, or grab coffee in Mile End. This city feels made for students.

Final Thoughts

Finding student housing as an international student isn’t always easy—but Montreal has plenty of options if you know where to look. Whether you’re staying for a few months or the full degree, the key is to start early, stay flexible, and find what feels right.

And hey—if all else fails, grab a shared room for now and ask around campus. This city’s full of friendly people, and someone’s always looking for a roommate.

Bienvenue à Montréal!

Add new comment