Is a Student Rental Property the Right Investment for You?
Whether you’re purchasing your first investment property or expanding a rental portfolio, student rentals can be a rewarding choice. Despite perceptions of student housing being high maintenance, these properties offer unique benefits and a steady demand. Here’s why student rentals could be a valuable addition to your real estate portfolio.
Strong Demand in a Growing Market
Ontario’s universities attract substantial and growing student populations, ensuring a consistent demand for rental housing. With over half a million students attending institutions across the province, landlords enjoy a broad pool of potential renters. Here’s the latest data on student populations for Ontario universities, as of July 2024:
| University | Student Population |
| University of Toronto | 93,015 |
| York University | 47,031 |
| University of Ottawa | 43,883 |
| Western University | 42,877 |
| Toronto Metropolitan University (Ryerson) | 40,728 |
| University of Waterloo | 40,457 |
| McMaster University | 35,379 |
| Queen’s University | 32,521 |
| University of Guelph | 28,882 |
| Carleton University | 26,379 |
| Wilfrid Laurier University | 20,600 |
| Brock University | 17,733 |
| University of Windsor | 17,129 |
| Trent University | 11,842 |
| Ontario Tech University (UOIT) | 9,554 |
| Lakehead University | 8,463 |
| Laurentian University | 6,523 |
| Algoma University | 5,070 |
| Nipissing University | 4,490 |
| OCAD University | 4,494 |
| NOSM University | 465 |
| Royal Military College | 2,110 |
| Université de Hearst | 248 |
| Total | 539,873 |
These high numbers highlight the strong demand for student housing across Ontario, providing landlords with a stable rental market year after year.
Advantages of Owning a Student Rental
While managing a student rental requires specific skills and adherence to local regulations, it offers several potential advantages:
- Higher Income Potential
Student rentals often accommodate multiple tenants, increasing rental income compared to single-family dwellings. - Predictable Leasing Cycle
Students typically secure housing from January to March, which helps with planning and filling vacancies. - Lower Aesthetic Expectations
Students tend to prioritize functionality over luxury, reducing the need for costly upgrades. - Parental Co-Signers and Reliable Payments
Many students have parents co-sign the lease, providing financial security. Parents often pay rent in advance or with post-dated cheques, streamlining payments for landlords. - Efficient Advertising
Most universities provide online housing boards where landlords can post listings, reaching a targeted audience without the hassle of multiple advertising platforms.
Tips for Success with Student Rentals
Student rentals often need to meet specific licensing and safety standards, so staying informed about municipal requirements is essential. This can also help keep insurance costs manageable while protecting your investment. Check out our post on city regulations for student housing and rental properties: More Cities Regulating Rental Housing & Student Rentals.
Protect Your Investment with Ease with Student Rental House Insurance
Obtaining student rental insurance is simple and provides valuable coverage for landlords. Click here to get a quote!
Want more tips on managing student rentals in Ontario?
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