Best Off-campus housing for University of Manitoba Students

For University of Manitoba students, finding the perfect off-campus housing is a key step before classes begin. Winnipeg offers diverse neighborhoods, each with unique benefits—from proximity to campus to access to local amenities. At liv.rent, Canada’s safest rental platform, we’re here to simplify the search and give you peace of mind. This guide highlights the best areas for students, helping you find a place that fits your lifestyle and keeps you focused on your studies.

University of Manitoba off campus housing overview

Types of accommodation

In Winnipeg, these are the typical types of places that are available to rent:

• Individual rooms in units
• Studios
• One-bedroom
• Two-bedrooms
• Houses for rent in Winnipeg

Students will likely either live on their own or with roommates. In a city like Winnipeg, many UM students will end up living in shared accommodations.

Looking for a place to share

If you’re looking for a room in a shared space that’s perfect for students, then your first place to check should be liv.rent’s listings. You can use the convenient map tool to find a place that’s close to campus, using the search filter “Room” under “Housing Type” to look at all the available places in the area.

Looking for a roommate

Off-campus students at UM looking for roommates can post their available rooms for rent on liv.rent for free. Plus, the 100% digital platform means that you can connect with a roommate safely and easily, entirely online. We take security very seriously and have a strict verification process so you know can have peace of mind with your rental.

Winnipeg transit

Winnipeg offers several convenient transit options for students commuting to the University of Manitoba. Winnipeg Transit’s extensive bus network provides easy access to the Fort Garry campus from various parts of the city. For students living further away, park-and-ride facilities make commuting simple and efficient. Additionally, students can take advantage of Winnipeg Transit’s U-Pass program, offering discounted, unlimited travel for full-time University of Manitoba students, making commuting both affordable and stress-free.

Best neighbourhoods for renters near UM Winnipeg Campus

It’s ultimately up to you if you want to live as close to campus as possible or sign on for a longer commute for potential rent savings. Here are a few neighbourhoods that are the most popular with students because they’re nearby to campus or have particularly easy access to transit options:

• Fort Garry
• Charleswood
• Bridgwater Forest
• St Vital
• Fort Richmond

Best neighbourhoods for renters near UM

Fort Garry

Fort Garry in Winnipeg is a popular area for students, offering a mix of housing options to suit various budgets. While some neighborhoods near campus may lean on the pricier side, you can find more affordable options by exploring shared accommodations or smaller apartments. This area provides the convenience of being close to the University of Manitoba while offering a welcoming and student-friendly community.

Types of accommodation in Fort Garry

Fort Garry offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. Students can find apartments, townhomes, and shared houses, with many properties located close to the University of Manitoba. The neighborhood’s mix of modern rentals and established homes makes it an appealing choice for those seeking convenience and comfort.

Average monthly rent in Fort Garry

• One-bedroom apartment — $2,320
• Two-bedroom apartment — $2,956
• Three-bedroom apartment — $3,600

Transportation in Fort Garry

Fort Garry offers excellent accessibility to the University of Manitoba, as it’s located near the campus. Students can easily commute by bike, on foot, or via a short bus ride using Winnipeg Transit’s frequent routes in the area. The neighborhood’s proximity to rapid transit lines further enhances convenience for those travelling to other parts of the city. Fort Garry is a prime choice for students looking for minimal travel time and easy access to campus facilities.

Fort Garry amenities

Fort Garry combines convenience and variety, offering grocery stores, dining options, and local shops. It’s also home to several parks and recreational spaces, giving students opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. Its central location provides easy access to the university and other nearby neighborhoods.

Charleswood

Known for its suburban charm and peaceful atmosphere, Charleswood offers a quieter living environment. While housing may lean towards family-style homes, shared accommodations can be a great option for students seeking affordability and tranquility, albeit a bit farther from campus.

Types of accommodation in Charleswood

Accommodation in Charleswood primarily consists of single-family homes, making it ideal for students seeking shared house rentals. While apartments are limited, those available offer a quiet, suburban lifestyle.

Average monthly rent in Charleswood

• One-bedroom apartment — $2,152
• Two-bedroom apartment — $2,520
• Three-bedroom apartment — $3,700

Transportation in Charleswood

Students in Charleswood can rely on Winnipeg Transit to commute to the University of Manitoba. Although the area is further from campus, several bus routes connect Charleswood to the rapid transit system, making travel manageable. For those with vehicles, park-and-ride facilities along major transit routes offer a convenient alternative.

Charleswood amenities

Charleswood is known for its quiet, suburban vibe, offering essential amenities like grocery stores, coffee shops, and local parks. The area also features trails and green spaces, such as Assiniboine Forest, which are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. While larger shopping centers are farther away, the peaceful atmosphere makes up for the limited commercial options.

Bridgwater Forest

A modern and picturesque neighborhood, Bridgwater Forest is ideal for students looking for newer apartments or shared housing. Though it may be slightly more expensive, the area’s scenic trails and amenities make it an appealing choice for off-campus living.

Types of accommodation in Bridgwater Forest

Bridgwater Forest features modern apartment complexes and townhomes, perfect for students looking for stylish, newer accommodations. Shared rentals are also an option in this upscale, scenic neighborhood.

Average monthly rent in Bridgwater Forest

• One-bedroom apartment — $1,698
• Two-bedroom apartment — $1,728
• Three-bedroom apartment — $2,046

Transportation in Bridgwater Forest

Bridgwater Forest is well-connected to the University of Manitoba through direct bus routes. The neighborhood’s proximity to rapid transit lines ensures a relatively quick and seamless commute, making it an appealing choice for students who rely on public transportation.

Bridgwater Forest amenities

Bridgwater Forest is a modern, well-planned neighborhood with plenty of amenities, including grocery stores, fitness centers, and cafes, all within easy reach. The area is surrounded by scenic walking trails and green spaces, making it a great spot for students who value a balance between urban convenience and nature.

St Vital

St. Vital combines affordability and convenience, offering a variety of housing options, from apartments to shared accommodations. With its proximity to shopping centers and easy transit connections, this neighborhood is a practical choice for students.

Types of accommodation in St Vital

St. Vital offers a mix of affordable apartments, duplexes, and shared accommodations. Its variety caters to students on different budgets, with many options located near shopping and transit hubs.

Average monthly rent in St Vital

• One-bedroom apartment — $1,133
• Two-bedroom apartment — $2,095
• Three-bedroom apartment — $2,450

Transportation in St Vital

St. Vital offers excellent transit options for students travelling to the University of Manitoba. The area is served by multiple bus routes that connect directly to the campus or the rapid transit system, providing a smooth and convenient commute. For those who drive, St. Vital’s location near major roadways makes it easy to access the university by car.

St Vital amenities

St. Vital boasts a wide range of amenities, from large shopping centers like St. Vital Centre to smaller grocery stores and restaurants. The area also features recreational facilities, parks, and walking paths along the Red River, offering plenty of options for both convenience and leisure.

Fort Richmond

Fort Richmond is a top pick for students due to its close proximity to the University of Manitoba. The area features plenty of student-friendly housing, ranging from budget-friendly shared accommodations to apartments, making it a convenient and popular choice.

Types of accommodation in Fort Richmond

Fort Richmond is known for its wide range of student-friendly accommodations, including apartments, condos, and shared houses. Its proximity to the University of Manitoba makes it a popular choice for both individual and group living arrangements.

Average monthly rent in Fort Richmond

• One-bedroom apartment — $2,139
• Two-bedroom apartment — $2,489
• Three-bedroom apartment — $3,039

Transportation in Fort Richmond

Fort Richmond is the most convenient neighborhood for students commuting to the University of Manitoba, as it’s located just minutes away from campus. Students can easily walk, bike, or take a short bus ride to class, making this area a top choice for those prioritizing accessibility.

Fort Richmond amenities

Fort Richmond is packed with student-friendly amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes located within walking distance of many residential areas. Its close proximity to the University of Manitoba also means students have quick access to campus services, libraries, and fitness facilities.

Tips on how to find & secure off-campus rental housing

How to avoid rental scams in Winnipeg

Unfortunately, rental scams in Winnipeg are out there, but luckily you can protect yourself. Know your rights as a renter and use a trusted rental platform. Here are some of the most common scams to look out for:

• Scam #1 Rent is too low
  If the rental rate seems shockingly below the rental average for the city, it could be a fake listing.
• Scam #2 Urgent cash demand
  Renters don’t have to pay for anything until a lease is signed. So, if someone’s pressuring you to send cash now, don’t do it.
• Scam #3 Too much info
  Until you’re 100% ready to move forward with a lease, you’re not obligated to share your bank account or SIN number.
• Scam #4 Not enough details
  While some smaller landlords may withhold unit numbers for privacy, you should know the exact address of the unit you’re looking at. without that info, it could be a scam.

Be smart with your rental search

• Tip #1 Know your needs
  List of your priorities: pricing, location, amenities, lease duration, pet policy, etc. Use liv.rent filters to narrow your search. 
• Tip #2 Do your research
  Find out the average rent in your target area. It’ll arm you with the necessary info to negotiate terms & rates.
• Tip #3 Google the property
  See if there are any complaints online regarding building management, maintenance, noise, neighbourhood, etc.
• Tip #4 Video tours first
  If possible, view video tours first. Then, narrow down your selection and book viewings only for places you’re seriously considering. 

Tips to improve your search

• Tip #1 Don’t be afraid to check
  Have the landlord demonstrate that all appliances are working – run faucets, check thermostats, flush toilets, turn on stoves, etc. Also, check cellphone reception.
• Tip #2 View in daylight
  Viewing a home in daylight will give you a better sense of the living space.
• Tip #3 Prepare questions
  Ask the hard questions (e.g. how much interest have you had for this unit) to uncover info not in the listing.

How to secure a rental before arriving in Canada

It’s easy for UM students who aren’t yet in Winnipeg or even in the country to rent an off-campus apartment safely and securely.

Once you have filled out your liv.rent profile completely, you can use it to apply to listings on our platform.

In your profile, you can select whether you are a first-time renter and whether or not you’re renting from outside Canada. That way, a landlord can accurately assess your profile and help you secure a rental without having references in Canada.

Watch the video below for a step-by-step guide to finding listings on liv.rent.

Student resources

liv.rent has a ton of resources for students renting in Winnipeg. Especially if you’re an international student, moving to Manitoba from out-of-province, or just new in town — it’s important to know the ins and outs of renting in Manitoba so you protect yourself and get a fair deal.

Check out our guides on everything from renting and leases to tenants’ rights and relationships with landlords.

• Off-Campus University of Manitoba Portal
• What Information is a Landlord Allowed to Ask For?
• VIDEO: How To Avoid Rental Scams
• University of Manitoba Off-Campus Housing Guide
• VIDEO: Finding The Perfect Match: Landlord-Tenant Relationships

FAQ: UM off-campus housing

What safety features should you look for in a rental platform?

Verified listings, multi-layered security and payment protections are all important security features to look out for in a rental platform.

Is the University of Manitoba hard to get into?

The University of Manitoba (UM) is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 52%.

How much do students pay for rent in Winnipeg?

Rates vary depending on the neighbourhood but are generally lower than other large Canadian urban centres like Vancouver or Toronto.

Where can I find off-campus housing for UM

A great place to find off-campus housing for UM is through their housing portal or on liv.rent.

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