For many students, one of the first decisions is whether to choose shared or private accommodation. Both have their advantages, so the best option depends on what matters most to you. Thinking about your budget, privacy needs, daily habits, and preferred living environment can help you narrow down your choices.
What is shared student accommodation?
Shared student accommodation typically gives you your own bedroom while you share spaces such as the kitchen, living room, and bathroom with roommates. This setup can make it easier to meet people, divide household responsibilities, and enjoy a more social home environment.
For many students, having roommates can make off-campus living feel more social. You might cook together, catch up after class, or plan weekend activities. At the same time, shared living means getting used to your roommates’ routines, cleaning habits, noise levels, and personal preferences.
What is private student accommodation?
Private student accommodation gives you a living space of your own, without roommates. Depending on the property, this could be a studio or a one-bedroom apartment with your own kitchen, bathroom, and living area. This setup gives you more privacy and independence in your day-to-day life.
It may be a good fit if you prefer a quieter home, need uninterrupted study time, or simply value following your own routine. However, private accommodation can be more expensive, and you may have fewer opportunities to socialize with other students at home.
Shared vs private accommodation: What should you consider?
Your budget
Your budget is one of the first things to consider when choosing between shared and private accommodation. Sharing a home with roommates can help lower your housing costs, as expenses such as rent and utilities may be divided between several people.
Private accommodation, on the other hand, typically costs more because you are paying for the space yourself. However, you may be comfortable paying more in exchange for greater privacy and independence.
Privacy, focus, and routine
Think about how much control you want over your living environment. Private accommodation can give you a quieter place to study and more freedom to follow your own schedule for cooking, sleeping, and downtime.
With shared accommodation, you can still have the privacy of your own bedroom, but you'll need to consider other people's schedules, noise levels, and cleaning habits in common areas.
How social you want your home to be
Shared accommodation naturally creates more opportunities to spend time with other students at home. You might share meals, chat between classes, or relax together in common areas.
Private accommodation offers more personal space, but it doesn't necessarily mean missing out on the social side of student life. You can still meet people through shared building amenities, university activities, clubs, and other social spaces.
How to decide which option fits you best
The best choice depends on what you want from your accommodation. Shared housing can offer lower individual costs and a more social living environment, while private accommodation gives you more personal space and greater control over your day-to-day routine.
If you’re looking for apartments near the University of Guelph, Oakley Ridge is approximately an eight-minute walk from campus and offers both shared and private accommodation options.
Suites come fully furnished, with all-inclusive rent covering utilities and Wi-Fi, as well as in-suite laundry and dedicated study spaces. Explore the available options to find a living arrangement that best suits your needs and preferences.
Frequently asked questions
Is shared student accommodation cheaper than private accommodation?
Shared accommodation can be more budget-friendly because some household costs may be divided between roommates.
Is private student accommodation better for studying?
Private accommodation can provide greater control over noise and interruptions, which may help if you need a quiet study environment.
What is usually shared in student accommodation?
Depending on the property, you may share areas such as the kitchen, living room, bathroom, laundry facilities, or other communal spaces.
What should be considered before choosing a shared apartment?
Consider roommate compatibility, cleaning expectations, noise levels, schedules, shared facilities, and household responsibilities.
Are furnished apartments a good option for students?
Yes. Fully furnished apartments can make moving easier because you don't have to buy and transport essential furniture.
