Finding the perfect student rental can be a challenge, especially when you’re looking for a space that’s affordable, close to campus, and connected to everything else Edmonton has to offer. For students attending the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), off-campus housing provides a more flexible and often more budget-friendly alternative to residence life. With so many neighbourhoods to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. In this liv.rent guide you will find a list of the top Edmonton neighbourhoods for NAIT students living off-campus, based on affordability, location, transit access, and amenities, so whether you’re new to the city or just looking for a better fit, you’ll find housing that suits your student lifestyle.
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NAIT off-campus housing overview
Types of accommodation
In Edmonton, these are the typical types of places that are available to rent:
There are also houses, laneway homes, and townhomes for rent with varying numbers of bedrooms.
Students will likely either live on their own or with roommates. The reality for many NAIT students in a city like Edmonton is that many of them 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.
FREE Roommate Agreement Template: Download Here
Looking for a roommate
If you’re attending NAIT and planning to live off-campus, finding a roommate can help make rent more affordable while also creating a more social living experience. Whether you’re hoping to split a two-bedroom apartment near campus or have an extra room to fill, liv.rent makes it easy to connect with like-minded renters.
Students can post available rooms for rent on liv.rent completely free of charge. The platform is 100% digital, allowing you to list your unit, chat with potential roommates, sign contracts, and even pay rent, all online. Plus, with built-in fraud prevention measures and verified listings, you can search with peace of mind knowing you’re using Canada’s safest rental platform.
Average rent in Edmonton
Here are the average rental price for Edmonton’s as of May 2025. For the latest numbers as well as more statistics and figures for different Edmonton neighbourhoods, be sure to check out our latest rent report.
Edmonton transit
When it comes to off-campus housing in Edmonton, living close to public transit is a major advantage. NAIT students have access to the Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), and most full-time students receive a U-Pass as part of their student fees. This pass gives you unlimited access to the city’s bus and LRT network, making it easier and more affordable to commute from neighbourhoods across the city.
NAIT’s main campus is conveniently served by the Metro LRT Line, with a stop right on campus at NAIT Station. Students can also plan their routes using ETS Trip Planner or the Transit app to find the quickest way to class, no matter where they live in Edmonton.
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Neighbourhoods to consider
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:
- Spruce Avenue
- Central McDougall
- Westwood
- Queen Mary Park
- Downtown Edmonton
Tips for saving on rent in Edmonton
Here are some tips and resources to help you save money on rent:
- Tip: Negotiate your rent
- Tip: Look for places with rental incentives
- Smart ways to save on rent in a big city
- Renter’s guide to getting a bigger tax return
Best student housing options off-campus in Edmonton
Using liv.rent to search for your off-campus home is perfect for NAIT students who can rent safely and securely from verified landlords and listings, sidestepping any scammers. Here’s where to look for the best student off-campus housing for NAIT students in Edmonton:
- Off-campus rooms for rent in Edmonton
- Off-campus studios for rent in Edmonton
- Off-campus one-bedrooms for rent in Edmonton
- Off-campus two-bedrooms for rent in Edmonton
- Off-campus houses for rent in Edmonton
Best neighbourhoods for renters near NAIT
Spruce Avenue
Located directly adjacent to NAIT, Spruce Avenue is a quiet, residential neighbourhood that offers unbeatable access to campus. It’s one of the most convenient places to live for students who want to be within walking distance of their classes.
Types of accommodation in Spruce Avenue
You’ll find a mix of housing options here including low-rise apartment buildings, basement suites in character homes, and shared student rentals. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back residential setting close to school.
Average monthly rent in Spruce Avenue
- One-bedroom apartment — $1,400
- Two-bedroom apartment — $1,600
- Three-bedroom apartment — $2,125
Transportation in Spruce Avenue
Spruce Avenue is directly served by the NAIT LRT Station, providing fast and easy connections to downtown and other major hubs. Major bus routes also run along 118 Avenue and Kingsway, making this neighbourhood one of the most transit-accessible for students.
Spruce Avenue amenities
Students living here are within walking distance of Kingsway Mall, grocery stores, cafés, and green spaces. It’s also close to the Royal Alexandra Hospital and several local parks, giving residents access to everything they need without having to travel far.
Central McDougall
Just south of NAIT, Central McDougall is a well-established neighbourhood known for its affordability and central location. It offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, making it a convenient choice for students who want to live close to campus without breaking the bank.
Types of accommodation in Central McDougall
The area features a variety of housing options such as older low-rise apartment buildings, basement suites in detached homes, room rentals, and shared student housing. These options are often more budget-friendly, making the neighbourhood attractive for students.
Average monthly rent in Central McDougall
- One-bedroom apartment — $1,241
- Two-bedroom apartment — $1,411
- Three-bedroom apartment — $1,656
Transportation in Central McDougall
Central McDougall is just a short walk or bus ride from NAIT. It’s served by the Kingsway/Royal Alex LRT Station and multiple bus routes along 107 Avenue and 101 Street. Students can easily reach downtown, Westmount, and other parts of the city.
Central McDougall amenities
The neighbourhood is close to Kingsway Mall, offering plenty of retail options and dining spots. You’ll also find grocery stores, coffee shops, and medical services nearby, along with access to the Royal Alexandra Hospital and local fitness centres.
Westwood
Located directly north of NAIT, Westwood is a quiet and affordable neighbourhood that’s become popular with students thanks to its proximity to campus and relaxed residential vibe. It offers a strong sense of community and is mostly made up of long-term residents and fellow students.
Types of accommodation in Westwood
Westwood features detached homes with basement suites, older walk-up apartment buildings, and shared houses, all of which cater well to students looking for budget-friendly rentals. It’s a great choice if you’re living with roommates or want a quieter place to focus on studies.
Average monthly rent in Westwood
- One-bedroom apartment — $1,674
- Two-bedroom apartment — $1,703
- Three-bedroom apartment — $2,010
Transportationin Westwood
The neighbourhood is within walking or biking distance of NAIT and is also served by several key bus routes along 97 Street and 118 Avenue. It’s also close enough to the NAIT LRT Station for quick access to downtown or other areas of the city.
Westwood amenities
Westwood is mostly residential but still offers easy access to essentials. There are small convenience stores, local restaurants, and green spaces nearby. Plus, it’s just a short trip to Kingsway Mall, major grocery stores, and campus facilities.
Queen Mary Park
West of NAIT and just northwest of downtown, Queen Mary Park blends residential comfort with urban convenience. It’s a growing neighbourhood that appeals to students who want to live near campus while enjoying access to restaurants, shopping, and city life.
Types of accommodation in Queen Mary Park
This area has seen a lot of new development in recent years, offering a mix of mid-rise apartment buildings, newly built condo rentals, and older homes with basement suites. There are plenty of student-friendly options that suit a range of budgets.
Average monthly rent in Queen Mary Park
- One-bedroom apartment — $1,195
- Two-bedroom apartment — $2,100
- Three-bedroom apartment — $2,300
Transportation in Queen Mary Park
Queen Mary Park is well-connected by Edmonton Transit, with several bus routes running along 107 Avenue, 109 Street, and 116 Street. It’s also a quick bike ride or short transit trip to NAIT and MacEwan University, making it a solid pick for students without a car.
Queen Mary Park amenities
The neighbourhood is full of local cafés, restaurants, and grocery stores. Students will also enjoy the nearby Brewery District, Oliver Square shopping centre, and quick access to downtown nightlife and cultural events.
Downtown Edmonton
Downtown is the vibrant heart of the city and a top choice for students who want to be in the middle of everything. Just minutes from NAIT by LRT, it’s perfect for students who enjoy an active lifestyle, nightlife, and access to city-wide amenities.
Types of accommodation in Downtown Edmonton
Downtown offers a wide range of housing options, including high-rise apartments, modern condos, lofts, and shared rentals. It’s ideal for students who prefer apartment living and don’t mind paying a bit more for location and convenience.
Average monthly rent in Downtown Edmonton
- One-bedroom apartment — $1,314
- Two-bedroom apartment — $1,700
- Three-bedroom apartment — $2,216
Transportation in Downtown Edmonton
Downtown is one of the best-connected areas in Edmonton. Multiple LRT stations, including MacEwan, Central, and Churchill provide fast access to NAIT and other parts of the city. There are also dozens of bus routes running through the core.
Downtown Edmonton amenities
Living downtown means access to everything, shopping centres, restaurants, gyms, grocery stores, public libraries, and arts venues. Students can walk to festivals, farmer’s markets, and city events, making it one of the most dynamic places to live while attending NAIT.
How to avoid rental scams in Edmonton
Unfortunately, rental scams in Edmonton 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.
Pro tip: rent from ID-verified landlords on liv.rent to avoid scams.
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
And ask the hard questions (e.g. how much interest have you had for this unit) to uncover info not in the listing.
Stand out when you apply for your rental
Completing your liv.rent profile, or renter’s resume, is the easiest way to stand out. You can also go the extra mile and pre-submit your application before your viewing if you’re pretty sure you want to rent the unit. By introducing yourself upfront, it shows that you’re serious about the unit – leaving a strong impression on your landlord.
Pro tip: on liv.rent, we use Trust Score to rate renters trustworthiness and credibility — it’s free for students to get theirs with their profile!
Another way to stand out is by using your renter’s story in your renter’s resume to give landlords more information about your credit score. As students may not have strong credit histories yet, use this space to provide more context to a landlord to help them trust you.
How to secure a rental before arriving in Canada
It’s easy for NAIT students who aren’t yet in Edmonton or even in the country yet 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.
Student resources
liv.rent has a ton of resources for students renting in Edmonton. Especially if you’re an international student, moving to Alberta from out-of-province, or just new in town, it’s important to know the ins and outs of renting in Alberta 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.
- Guide to Alberta tenancy agreement
- Alberta rent increase limit
- What Information is a landlord allowed to ask for?
- VIDEO: How to avoid rental scams
- VIDEO: Finding the perfect match: Landlord-tenant relationships
FAQ: NAIT off-campus housing
What’s the best neighbourhood for NAIT students to live in?
Spruce Avenue is the closest neighbourhood to NAIT and offers unbeatable convenience, but Central McDougall, Westwood, Queen Mary Park, and Downtown Edmonton are also excellent options depending on your budget and lifestyle. Each area is well-connected by transit and offers a variety of rental types.
How much does rent typically cost for NAIT students living off-campus?
Rental prices can vary based on location and unit type. As of 2025, shared accommodations or basement suites near NAIT may range from $1000–$1,100/month per student, while one-bedroom apartments in areas like Downtown may cost between $1,300–$2,200/month. Splitting rent with roommates is a popular way to keep costs down.
Is public transit reliable for commuting to NAIT?
Yes. NAIT is served by the Metro LRT Line, with NAIT Station located right on campus. Many bus routes also pass through nearby neighbourhoods like Westwood and Central McDougall, making public transit a dependable and affordable commuting option for students.
Are there furnished rentals available for students near NAIT?
Yes, furnished rentals are available, especially in Downtown Edmonton and some student-focused apartment buildings. However, they can be more expensive. Platforms like liv.rent allow you to filter listings by furnished/unfurnished to find the right fit.
Can I find roommates through liv.rent?
Absolutely. liv.rent is a 100% digital platform where NAIT students can search for roommates, post available rooms, and connect securely online. It’s a safe and convenient way to find shared housing options that match your needs and budget.
How do I avoid rental scams?
Use verified platforms like liv.rent, avoid sending money before seeing a lease, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
Rethink The Way You Rent
Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.
Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.
>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.
Rethink The Way You Rent
Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications & contracts, verified tenants & landlords, virtual tours and more – all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.
Subscribe to receive the latest tenant & landlord tips and get notified about changes in the Canadian rental market.
>> Stay up-to-date on the average rent in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal: Rent Reports.
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