Are you looking for student accommodation in Pickering, Ontario? Whether you’re planning to attend a nearby university or college, Pickering offers a range of comfortable and student-friendly housing options. Located within reach of major academic institutions in the Greater Toronto Area, Pickering provides a convenient living experience with access to public transportation, shopping centers, green spaces, and urban amenities. Many student properties are located near transit routes and in well-connected neighborhoods such as Rouge, Agincourt/Malvern, West Hill, Morningside, and L'Amoreaux/Steeles/Milliken, making daily commute to campus efficient and hassle-free. These areas are popular among students for their affordability, safety, and accessibility to essential services.

Now if you are worried about assistance in booking a room in one of the student housing options, University Living is here for you. Finding a great student place doesn’t have to be stressful. At University Living, we’ve got your back — from helping you explore the best housing options to making sure the move-in day goes smoothly. We’re with you every step of the way so you can focus on what matters most: your studies and making the most of your student life.

You will find suitable student housing in Pickering; the options range from a variety of accommodation types that suit different budgets and lifestyle preferences. These accommodations typically feature modern amenities such as high-speed internet, furnished bedrooms, on-site laundry, and shared common areas for studying and socializing.  The off-campus flexibility and warm homestays, here’s a breakdown of popular housing choices:

Off-Campus Housing

• Shared Apartments or Condos: Ideal for students who prefer independence with a touch of community. Each student usually gets a private bedroom while sharing the kitchen, living area, and bathroom.

• Private Rooms in Houses: Students can rent individual rooms within a family home or apartment. It’s a cost-effective option and often includes shared access to facilities like laundry, kitchen, or backyard.

• Furnished & Unfurnished Apartments: Furnished apartments are ready to move in—equipped with essentials like a bed, table, and wardrobe. Unfurnished options offer more flexibility for long-term stays and personal furnishings.

• Co-living Spaces: A modern, student-friendly setup where multiple individuals live together in a community-style home with shared lounges, kitchens, and often pre-organized social activities.

Offerings of Student Housing in Pickering, Canada:

• Fully furnished rooms

• Inclusive utility packages

• On-site maintenance

• Common areas for social interaction

• Proximity to shops and local transit

Key Highlights of Student Housing in Pickering

• Move-in ready furnished units

• High-speed Wi-Fi and utility inclusion

• Transit-friendly locations

• Secure and well-maintained premises

• Flexible lease options

Pickering offers several neighborhoods that are ideal for students due to their safety, connectivity, and community amenities. Depending on your preferences—urban vibe, peaceful surroundings, or proximity to campus—you can choose from:

Top Student Neighborhoods in Pickering

• Downtown Pickering: It is ideal for students who prefer a vibrant urban setting. It offers convenient access to retail shops, restaurants, and essential services. With the Pickering GO Station nearby, commuting to universities and colleges in the Greater Toronto Area is both quick and reliable.

• Bay Ridges: It is a peaceful lakeside neighborhood offering scenic views and access to waterfront parks and trails. Its quiet streets and natural surroundings provide a calm atmosphere, making it well-suited for students who value focus, relaxation, and a healthy study-life balance near Lake Ontario.

• Brock Ridge & Liverpool: Both are residential neighborhoods known for green spaces, walking trails, and community centers. These areas are well-connected by public transit, offering students convenient bus access to nearby campuses. The balanced setting supports both academic focus and day-to-day comfort.

• Dunbarton & Woodlands: Both are established residential communities providing a quiet, secure living environment. These areas appeal to students looking for a safe and stable home base. With local amenities and transit access nearby, they offer the perfect blend of peace and practicality for academic life.

Living in Pickering is generally more affordable than in downtown Toronto, making it a budget-friendly choice for students.

Housing Costs

• Shared Apartment: CAD 700 – CAD 950/month

• Studio Apartment: CAD 1,100 – CAD 1,400/month

• Utilities (if not included): CAD 150 – CAD 200/month

Daily Living Expenses

• Groceries: CAD 200 – CAD 300/month (Budget-conscious; cooking most meals at home)

• Dining Out: CAD 150 – CAD 250/month (Casual meals, occasional takeout)

• Transportation (Public): CAD 130/month (Covers Durham Region Transit for local travel.

• Entertainment: CAD 80 – CAD 150/month (Movies, social activities, subscriptions)

Estimated Monthly Budget:

• Budget Lifestyle: CAD 1,100 – CAD 1,300

Includes: Shared apartment (lower end), frugal groceries, public transport (local only), limited dining out/entertainment.

• Standard Lifestyle: CAD 1,400 – CAD 1,700

Includes: Shared apartment (mid-range), moderate groceries, some dining out, local public transport, and occasional entertainment.

• Premium Lifestyle: CAD 1,800 – CAD 2,200+

Includes: Studio apartment (can push above CAD 2,200 if not a basic unit), more relaxed spending on groceries and dining out, public transport (local and some GO), and more frequent entertainment.

Plan Smart with University Living

University Living Cost of Living Calculator is designed specifically for students, helping you budget wisely for your accommodation and daily expenses. From rent and utilities to coffee runs and entertainment, it gives you a clear picture of your monthly costs—so you can focus on what matters: your studies and student life.

Student housing in Pickering is well-connected through multiple modes of public transportation, making commuting convenient and affordable for students.

 Public Transit

• Durham Region Transit (DRT): Offers local bus services across Pickering and neighboring towns. Monthly passes are available for students. Use the PRESTO Card to pay for your commute.

• GO Transit: Provides regional train and bus services to Toronto, Scarborough, and nearby university towns.

Other Options

• Cycling & Walking: Many neighborhoods offer pedestrian-friendly paths and dedicated bike lanes.

• Ride-sharing: Uber, Lyft, and local taxis are available for on-demand travel.

Pickering combines scenic natural landscapes with vibrant urban amenities, making it an excellent choice for students seeking balance. From waterfront parks and hiking trails to shopping centers and cultural venues, the city offers plenty of options for weekend relaxation, outdoor activities, and local exploration.

Top Student-Friendly Attractions:

• Pickering Waterfront: Breathe in the fresh lakeside air at Pickering Waterfront, where stunning views meet student-friendly spaces. Enjoy scenic trails, sandy beaches, and bustling marinas—perfect for jogs, study breaks, or weekend picnics with friends. Whether you’re relaxing or recharging, this spot brings nature and calm right to your doorstep.

• Pickering Town Centre:  It is your go-to for everything from fashion finds to Friday night fun. With a wide range of retail stores, a buzzing movie theatre, and international food courts, it's the ultimate one-stop spot to shop, dine, and unwind after classes or during a study break.

• Petticoat Creek Conservation Area: Adventure meets tranquility at Petticoat Creek Conservation Area. Hike shaded trails, cycle along lakefront paths, or soak in panoramic views of Lake Ontario. This green gem is a student favorite for nature escapes, weekend exploration, and fresh air away from screens and study sessions.

• Esplanade Park: It is the cultural heartbeat of Pickering. From music festivals and food truck rallies to art shows and seasonal events, it’s always buzzing with something exciting. Grab your friends and enjoy a lively, open-air escape that brings the whole student community together under one vibrant skyline.

• Durham Live Complex (Under Development): Get ready for the ultimate entertainment destination. Durham Live is set to bring world-class gaming, luxury dining, and thrilling live shows all in one place. Once open, it’ll be the go-to student hotspot for unforgettable nights out just minutes from your front door.