Finding the right student residence in Montreal can be overwhelming, especially with many available options. Whether you’re a first-year student moving out for the first time or an international student navigating a new city, where you live can significantly impact your university experience.

The best student residences offer more than just a place to sleep—they provide comfort, convenience, and a strong sense of community. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve rounded up the five essential amenities you should look for in student housing.

1. High-Speed Internet and Study Spaces

In today's digital world, students need a strong Wi-Fi connection. Whether they are attending online lectures, researching assignments, or simply binge-watching Netflix after a long day, fast and reliable internet is necessary.

Most student residences advertise free Wi-Fi, but not all connections are created equal. To avoid slow speeds during peak hours, look for buildings that offer high-speed fibre-optic internet with unlimited bandwidth. Ask current residents about their experience with internet reliability.

In addition to strong Wi-Fi, dedicated study areas are another crucial amenity. Some residences feature quiet study lounges, group workspaces, and even computer labs with printing services. A distraction-free study environment in your building can be a game-changer, especially during exam season.

If your residence lacks proper study spaces, check out student-friendly spots like the McGill Library, Concordia’s Webster Library, or popular cafés like Café Myriade and Shaughnessy Café.

2. Safety and Security Features

Living in a safe environment is a top priority for students and their families. Montreal is generally a safe city, but as with any urban area, certain precautions should be taken when choosing a student residence.

Here are some key security features to look for:

• 24/7 surveillance cameras in hallways, entrances, and common areas
• Keycard or fob entry systems for controlled building access
• On-site security personnel or concierge service
• Well-lit pathways and common areas for extra safety at night

Students love residences like EVO Montreal and Campus1 MTL because of their strong security measures. If you’re considering an off-campus apartment, research the neighbourhood's safety and check for secure entryways.

3. Fitness and Wellness Facilities

Balancing academics and personal health can be challenging, but having a gym or wellness space in your residence makes it easier to stay active. Many student buildings now offer fitness centers, yoga studios, or indoor pools to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Mental well-being is just as important. Some residences provide meditation rooms, quiet relaxation zones, or even free mental health workshops for students. A few more significant buildings even have partnerships with therapists or counsellors who offer support sessions on-site.

If your building doesn’t have a gym, you can find affordable student memberships at Le Gym (Concordia’s fitness center) or McGill Athletics and Recreation.

4. Social and Community Spaces

One of the biggest perks of living in student housing is the built-in social life. Residences with vibrant common areas encourage students to make friends and build connections. Look for amenities such as:

• Lounge areas with couches and TVs for socializing
• Shared kitchens where students can cook and eat together
• Game rooms with pool tables or ping-pong
• Organized social events like movie nights, networking sessions, or communal dinners

Some premium residences even offer rooftop terraces with city views, perfect for studying or hanging out with friends. These social spaces help ease the transition to a new city and create lasting friendships.

If your residence doesn’t have many communal areas, check out student events hosted by your university or join Facebook groups like McGill Off-Campus Housing and Concordia Student Residences & Roommates.

5. Convenient Location and Transportation Access

Montreal’s public transportation system, the STM, makes it easy to get around the city, but living near your university can save you time and money. When choosing a residence, consider its proximity to your classes, grocery stores, and essential services.

Here are some of the best student-friendly neighbourhoods and their proximity to major universities:

• Milton Park (McGill, UQAM) – A short walk to campus, surrounded by cafés and bookstores
• Shaughnessy Village (Concordia, LaSalle College) – Near Sainte-Catherine Street, full of restaurants and shops
• Plateau Mont-Royal (UQAM, McGill) – Trendy and artsy, with plenty of affordable housing options
• Côte-des-Neiges (Université de Montréal, HEC Montréal, Polytechnique) – A quieter area with good public transit connections

Residences like Varcity515, The MARQ, and Le Mildoré offer central locations with easy access to metro stations and bus stops. If you plan to commute, ensure your residence is near a Metro (Green or Orange line) for a smooth ride to campus.

Conclusion

Choosing the right student residence in Montreal is more than just affordability—it’s about finding a place that supports your academic and personal growth. The best residences offer reliable internet, secure facilities, fitness and wellness options, social spaces, and convenient locations.

Before deciding, visit the residence, read online reviews, and talk to current students. If you’re unsure where to start, check out student housing websites or explore options through your university’s housing office.

Living in the right student residence can make your time in Montreal unforgettable. Do your research, pick wisely, and enjoy your new home in one of Canada’s most vibrant student cities!