Cheapest Student Accommodation in Vancouver: A student planning to study abroad has to consider a lot of factors while moving to a new city. One of the most important factors to consider is the student accommodation. If your rents are exorbitant then you might be left with less money to spend on other things. Hence, it is very crucial to look for pocket-friendly student accommodations.
In this blog, we are going to look at some of the cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver. If you are a student planning to study in Vancouver, then keep reading this blog to learn about the most affordable student accommodations in Vancouver.
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5 Cheapest Student Accommodation in Vancouver in 2025
Looking for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver? Here are some of the most affordable options for students in 2025: GEC King Edward, Marine Gateway, GEC Pearson, GEC Viva, and APT Living. These accommodations offer budget-friendly rates and convenient locations, making them perfect choices for students who want to save on housing while studying in the city.
GEC King Edward: CAD 303/week
GEC King Edward is a luxurious, cosy, and spacious option for students seeking cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver. It offers both individual and shared rooms, each featuring a plush bed, a work desk, and a chair. There are common study rooms and a social lounge as well. This excellent student housing in Canada also has a rooftop terrace where you can relax during the evenings. Free internet and laundry are also provided and all the utility expenses are included in the rent (water, free high-speed wifi, and electricity).
There are countless shops, pubs, and eateries surrounding this property such as The Cambie Bar & Grill and The Morrissey. The neighbourhood is safe and secure and has many parks including Queen Elizabeth Park.
| Place | ETA |
| Pacific Central Station | 12 minutes drive |
| University Of British Columbia | 16 minutes drive |
| Viet House | 10 minutes walk |
Also Read: Weekend Getaways From Vancouver: Check Out All the Exciting Spots
Marine Gateway: CAD 326/week
Marine Gateway is an excellent choice for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver due to its proximity to several renowned universities. The rooms in Marine Gateway are luxurious but also reasonably priced and come with a lot of modern amenities. Some of the things that you will get in this building include laundry facilities, a fitness centre for workouts, communal areas, and Wi-Fi. You will also have access to all-inclusive weekly housekeeping services and a parking facility. Additionally, you will be living close to many famous landmarks such as the Golden Tree, Bloedel Conservatory, VanDusen Botanical Garden, and Queen Elizabeth Park.
| Place | ETA |
| Marine Drive subway station | 5 minutes walk |
| Kwantlen Polytechnic University | 10 minutes ride |
| Richmond Campus | 20 minutes ride |
GEC Pearson: CAD 280/week
GEC Pearson is a great option for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver, located in the southside of the city. The property provides the option of both private and shared rooms. The property also follows the concept of a ‘yearly social calendar’ to facilitate communication and bonding between people coming from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Some of the facilities available in this building include a gym facility, an underground parking area, a laundry, and an outdoor community area for socialising.
| Place | ETA |
| Marine Drive Canada Line station | 10 minutes walk |
| Langara College | 17 minutes walk |
| Kwantlen Polytechnic University- Richmond Campus | 30 minutes bus ride |
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Vancouver: Make Your Bucket List Now!
GEC Viva: CAD 280/week
GEC Viva offers economical cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver, with a variety of housing options to suit different needs. There is a range of housing options here which includes shared bedrooms, private bedrooms, sectioned/premium shared bedrooms, bedroom apartments, and Bedroom plus sectioned apartments. The building is located in Downtown Vancouver and is close to several restaurants like Cazba, Denny’s, and KFC. The building has 24/7 security and CCTV, on-site maintenance, laundry, bike storage, and an on-site gym.
| Place | ETA |
| Maritime Museum | 20 minutes bus ride |
| University Canada West | 19 minutes walk |
| University of British Columbia | 30 minutes bus ride |
APT Living: CAD 500/week
APT Living offers affordable cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver, catering to various student needs. It provides a single room with a shared bathroom and a single room with a semi-shared bathroom. Each room contains a comfortable single bed, a desk, a chair, and a spacious closet. The property has a shared functional kitchen with amenities like a fridge, a freezer, a stove, and a microwave. The rent on the property is inclusive of all utilities and Wi-Fi access.
| Place | ETA |
| The Museum of Anthropology at UBC | 19 minutes drive |
| Nitobe Memorial Garden | 15 minutes drive |
| The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant | 4 minutes drive |
Also Read: Student Accommodation in Canada
Types of Student Accommodation in Vancouver
In Vancouver, students have several options for accommodation, depending on their preferences, budget, and university location. Here are the main types of student accommodation available in the city:
University Residence Halls
- Although on-campus residence halls can sometimes be pricier, they offer relatively affordable options for students, especially when compared to private rentals. Look for options with shared rooms or meal plans to keep costs low.
Shared Houses or Rooms
- One of the most affordable choices for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver is renting a room in a shared house or apartment. By splitting rent and utilities with other students, you can significantly reduce your housing costs.
Homestay
- Homestay options offer the opportunity to live with a local family, which often includes meals and utilities. This can be a cost-effective option compared to renting an entire apartment, and it provides a supportive environment for international students.
Student Co-Operative Housing
- Co-op housing offers an incredibly affordable option for students looking for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver. Co-ops are community-based and offer lower rent in exchange for students working a few hours per week in the co-op. This arrangement can be perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly living situation.
Off-Campus Shared Apartments
- Renting a shared apartment with fellow students is one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to find cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver. By sharing a larger apartment or house, you can reduce your individual rent payment, making it a more affordable living option.
Short-Term Rentals and Sublets
- For students who need temporary housing, short-term rentals and subletting a room or apartment can often be cheaper than booking long-term leases. Websites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are good places to find budget-friendly short-term accommodation options.
Private Rentals in Suburban Areas
- While living in the city center of Vancouver can be expensive, renting in suburban areas like Burnaby, Richmond, or Surrey might be more affordable. Public transportation options make it easy to commute to campuses, keeping overall housing costs lower.
How to Find the Cheapest Student Accommodation in Vancouver
Finding affordable student accommodation in Vancouver can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can secure a place within your budget. Here are some tips to help you find the cheapest student accommodation:
1. Start Early
- Early search gives you more options for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver. Many students begin looking for housing months in advance, especially around the start of the academic year.
2. Explore University Housing
- Many universities in Vancouver offer on-campus housing or student apartments that may be more affordable compared to private rentals. Check with your institution’s housing office for options.
3. Look for Shared Accommodation
- Sharing an apartment or house with other students is one of the cheapest options. Look for roommate listings on university bulletin boards, social media groups, or websites like Craigslist and Kijiji.
4. Check Off-Campus Listings
- Websites such as Craigslist, PadMapper, and RentBoard are popular for finding cheap student accommodation in Vancouver. Set up alerts to find new listings as they are posted.
5. Use Social Media and Facebook Groups
- Join Facebook groups specific to student housing in Vancouver. Many students post sublet opportunities or searches for roommates.
6. Consider Different Neighborhoods
- Areas like East Vancouver, Burnaby, and parts of Richmond might offer more affordable rental options than downtown Vancouver. Check for public transport accessibility to your university.
7. Sublet and Temporary Rentals
- Subletting a room or apartment can often be cheaper than renting a place long-term. Consider looking for summer sublets or short-term rental options during your first few months.
8. Negotiate Rent
- Don’t hesitate to negotiate the rent with landlords, especially if you’re willing to sign a longer lease or pay in advance. Some landlords may offer a discount to secure a reliable tenant.
9. Check for Student Discounts
- Some rental companies or services may offer discounts to students. Always inquire about special student offers when contacting potential landlords.
10. Use Accommodation Websites
- Websites like Fly Homes, Student.com or Unilodgers specialize in student accommodation and may offer competitive pricing for shared rooms or private student apartments.
Tips to Save Money on Student Accommodation in Vancouver
Vancouver is an expensive city, but finding the cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver in 2025 is possible with the right approach. By exploring different housing options and making smart choices, you can save money while still having a comfortable place to stay. Here are some useful tips to help you.
- Consider Shared Accommodation – Split rent and utilities with roommates.
- Choose Off-Campus Housing – Look for more affordable areas like Burnaby or Surrey.
- Find Student-Specific Housing – Use platforms like Places4Students for student-only rentals.
- Rent a Basement Suite – Often cheaper with utilities included.
- Look for All-Inclusive Rentals – Save on electricity, water, and internet costs.
- Sign a Longer Lease – Get lower rates with 12-month leases.
- Use Student Discounts – Ask for discounts before signing.
- Be Flexible with Location – Consider more affordable neighborhoods.
- Consider Homestay Programs – Meals included, reducing overall costs.
- Avoid Rental Scams – Be cautious and use reputable platforms.
Vancouver is a beautiful, vibrant city full of amenities. Living in a city like this can be a bit expensive too if you don’t plan your expenditures properly. Though the city is expensive, sound financial planning can help in making your stay comfortable without breaking the bank. If you don’t want to loosen your purse strings then you must consider the above-mentioned student accommodation options. Choose a student accommodation that best suits your preferences and needs. Happy staying in Vancouver!
We hope you liked this blog, where we covered some of the cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
FAQs on Cheapest Student Accommodation in Vancouver
Some of the reasonably priced student accommodations in Vancouver include Marine Gateway, GEC King Edward, and GEC Viva.
No, it is not difficult to find accommodation in Vancouver as the city has plenty of options. You can look for the best option that suits your needs and book it before you move to the city.
It is not expensive to live in Vancouver if you take an affordable student housing option and manage your expenses frugally.
To find the cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver, look for shared apartments, co-ops, and university residence options. Websites like Craigslist, Kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace are also helpful.
Homestay offers cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver, providing meals, a family environment, and cultural immersion. It’s ideal for international students looking for a supportive and affordable option.
Some student housing options like co-ops and homestays may include utilities, while others, such as shared apartments, may charge separately for electricity, internet, and water. Always check with the landlord.
The best way to find cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver is to search early on university housing websites, rental boards, and social media platforms. Networking with other students can also help you find deals.
Yes, international students can find affordable options like homestays, student co-ops, or shared housing. Early research and using university resources can help find cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver.
It’s recommended to start looking for cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver at least 3-4 months before the academic year begins to secure the best deals and availability.
Finding cheapest student accommodation in Vancouver near downtown is challenging due to higher rent prices. However, you can look for shared apartments or rooms in nearby neighborhoods like East Vancouver or Mount Pleasant for more affordable options.
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