If you are a Simon Fraser University student looking for off-campus housing in Burnaby, you are not alone. SFU’s on-campus residences house roughly 1,500 students, but the university serves around 30,000 students in total. That means the vast majority of SFU students live off campus, and most of them start their search with the same question: which Burnaby neighbourhood is best for me?
The answer depends on your budget, your tolerance for commuting, how close you want to be to transit, and the kind of lifestyle you are looking for. Some students want to stay as close to the Burnaby Mountain campus as possible. Others prefer a neighbourhood with more shops, restaurants, and nightlife, even if it means a slightly longer bus ride.
This guide covers the five best neighbourhoods for SFU students looking for off-campus housing in and around Burnaby. For each neighbourhood, we break down the commute to campus, the types of housing available, the general price range, the transit connections, and the overall vibe.
Our professional moving experts share some practical moving tips, because once you find the right place, you still need to get there.
1. UniverCity (Burnaby Mountain) – The Closest You Can Get Without Living on Campus
Location and Commute to SFU
UniverCity is the master-planned community built right on top of Burnaby Mountain, directly beside the SFU campus. If you live here, you can walk to class in five to fifteen minutes, depending on which building you are in. There is no need for a bus, a SkyTrain transfer, or commute stress. For students with early-morning labs or late-evening study sessions, this is the most convenient location by far.
Housing Options and Rent
UniverCity has a mix of condos, townhouses, and purpose-built rental apartments. Many units are modern, energy-efficient, and well-maintained. The community includes buildings like Altitude, Novo, Aurora, CentreBlock, and One University Crescent. Rents tend to be higher than in neighbourhoods further down the mountain. A one-bedroom apartment typically starts around $1,800 to $2,200 per month, while shared rooms or basement suites can sometimes be found for less. Students often share two-bedroom units to split costs.
Amenities and Lifestyle
UniverCity has a small but useful village centre called University High Street, which includes a Nesters Market grocery store, a Scotiabank, a Subway, coffee shops, restaurants, and a few other services. There is also an elementary school, a childcare centre, and access to the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area with over 28 kilometres of trails. The community is quiet, safe, and very student-friendly, but it does feel somewhat isolated compared to neighbourhoods at the base of the mountain. If you want nightlife, a wide variety of restaurants, or major shopping, you will need to head down the hill.
Transit Connections
The SFU bus exchange connects to several TransLink routes, including the R5 RapidBus to downtown Vancouver and buses that run to Production Way, University SkyTrain Station at the base of the mountain. A free community shuttle also runs between Nesters Market and the west side of SFU’s campus. Students receive a U-Pass as part of their tuition fees, which covers unlimited transit use.
Best For
Students who want the shortest possible commute to campus, those who prefer a quiet study-focused environment, and anyone who values being surrounded by nature and trails.
2. Lougheed Town Centre – Great Transit Hub with Strong Amenities
Location and Commute to SFU
Lougheed Town Centre is located at the base of Burnaby Mountain, making it one of the most popular areas for SFU students who want a balance between convenience and affordability. The commute to the Burnaby campus is roughly 15 to 25 minutes by bus, depending on traffic and the specific route. The 145 and 143 buses run frequently between Lougheed and the SFU campus.
Housing Options and Rent
The Lougheed area has seen a lot of new development in recent years, with several high-rise condo towers built around the Lougheed Town Centre SkyTrain Station. This means there are plenty of modern apartments available for rent. Older low-rise apartments and basement suites in nearby residential streets offer more affordable options. A one-bedroom apartment in this area typically ranges from $1,600 to $2,100 per month. Rooms in shared houses can be found for $800 to $1,200.
Amenities and Lifestyle
Lougheed Town Centre mall is a major shopping hub with a grocery store, a food court, retail shops, a pharmacy, and several restaurants. The neighbourhood also borders Cameron Recreation Centre, which offers a gym, swimming pool, and fitness classes. There are parks nearby, and the area has a growing mix of cafes and eateries. It is a practical, well-connected neighbourhood that gives students everything they need without the isolation of living on top of the mountain.
Transit Connections
Lougheed Town Centre Station is on the Millennium Line of the SkyTrain. From here, you can reach downtown Vancouver, Metrotown, Brentwood, and Coquitlam quickly. Multiple bus routes connect to the SFU campus directly. This makes Lougheed one of the best transit hubs in the entire Burnaby area for students.
Best For
Students who want easy access to both SFU and the rest of Metro Vancouver, those who value shopping and food options, and anyone looking for newer apartment buildings with modern amenities.
3. Capitol Hill and Burnaby Heights – Affordable and Community-Focused
Location and Commute to SFU
Capitol Hill sits just east of Burnaby Heights, on the lower slopes between Burnaby Mountain and the Hastings Street corridor. Burnaby Heights (sometimes called “The Heights”) runs along Hastings Street between Boundary Road and Gamma Avenue. These two neighbourhoods are close together and share a similar community feel. The commute to SFU from here is about 20 to 30 minutes by bus. The R5 RapidBus runs along Hastings Street and connects to the SFU campus, making transit straightforward.
Housing Options and Rent
This area offers some of the more affordable rental options near SFU. You will find a good mix of older apartment buildings, basement suites in single-family homes, and shared housing. The GEC Burnaby Heights student residence is also located in this area, offering furnished rooms specifically for students attending SFU, FIC, and BCIT. Rents for a one-bedroom apartment generally range from $1,400 to $1,900 per month. Shared rooms and basement suites can be found for $700 to $1,100, making this one of the most budget-friendly areas close to SFU.
Amenities and Lifestyle
Burnaby Heights has a charming, walkable high street along Hastings with independent shops, bakeries, restaurants, and cafes. Capitol Hill offers access to Confederation Park, which has an off-leash dog area, sports fields, and walking trails. The Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool and Fitness Centre and the Burnaby Public Library branch are both nearby. This area has a strong multicultural community feel and is popular with students who want a more neighbourhood-oriented lifestyle rather than a high-rise downtown vibe.
Transit Connections
The R5 RapidBus along Hastings Street is the main transit link. It runs frequently and connects to the SFU bus exchange at the top of Burnaby Mountain. From Hastings Street, you can also access buses heading into downtown Vancouver and to other SkyTrain stations. The area is not directly on a SkyTrain line, but the bus service is reliable and well-used by students.
Best For
Students on a tighter budget, those who prefer a quieter neighbourhood with a community feel, and anyone who values walkable local shops and green spaces.
Moving into your first off-campus apartment near SFU? President Movers helps Burnaby students with fast, affordable local moves. Visit presidentmovers.ca to get a free estimate.
4. Brentwood – Urban Living with Easy SkyTrain Access
Location and Commute to SFU
Brentwood is one of the fastest-growing neighbourhoods in Burnaby, located south of the SFU campus along Lougheed Highway. The commute to SFU from Brentwood takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes, depending on whether you take a bus directly or transfer at a SkyTrain station. While it is not the closest neighbourhood to campus, it offers something many closer areas do not: a true urban lifestyle with modern apartments, major shopping, and excellent transit in every direction.
Housing Options and Rent
The area around Brentwood Town Centre Station has been transformed by large-scale development over the past several years. The Concord Brentwood project and other nearby towers have added thousands of modern condo units. Many of these are available for rent, and there is a healthy supply of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Rents for a one-bedroom typically range from $1,800 to $2,400 per month. Students frequently share two-bedroom units to bring costs down. Older apartments and basement suites in the surrounding residential streets offer more affordable options in the $1,400 to $1,700 range.
Amenities and Lifestyle
Brentwood Town Centre is a major retail and dining destination. The redesigned mall area includes a large grocery store, restaurants, shops, a movie theatre, and a wide range of everyday services. The neighbourhood also has access to parks like Burnaby Central Park (a short bus ride south) and smaller green spaces nearby. Brentwood offers a much more urban and social lifestyle than neighbourhoods closer to the mountain. It is a good fit for students who want the convenience of city-style living with strong transit connections to campus.
Transit Connections
Brentwood Town Centre Station is on the Millennium Line of the SkyTrain. From here, you can reach downtown Vancouver in about 20 minutes, Metrotown in less than 10 minutes, and Lougheed Town Centre in about 5 minutes. Buses to SFU are available from nearby stops. Brentwood is approximately 30 minutes from both SFU’s Burnaby campus and downtown Vancouver, making it a strong central location for students who split their time between campuses or want weekend access to the city.
Best For
Students who want a modern, urban lifestyle with strong shopping and dining options, those attending classes at both the Burnaby and downtown campuses, and anyone who values being well-connected by SkyTrain.
5. Burquitlam – Quiet, Affordable, and Growing Fast
Location and Commute to SFU
Burquitlam sits at the border of Burnaby and Coquitlam, just east of Lougheed Town Centre. It is named for its position between the two cities. The commute to SFU from Burquitlam is about 15 to 20 minutes by bus, since the 143 route runs directly from Burquitlam to the SFU campus via the Production Way corridor. The Burquitlam SkyTrain Station, opened as part of the Evergreen Extension, adds even more transit flexibility.
Housing Options and Rent
Burquitlam has seen a wave of new high-rise development around the SkyTrain station. These newer towers offer modern amenities, in-suite laundry, and good building management. At the same time, the surrounding streets have older townhouses and single-family homes where basement suites are commonly rented out. A one-bedroom apartment in a newer tower typically costs $1,600 to $2,000 per month. Basement suites and shared rooms range from $750 to $1,200. The area is one of the better value options for students who want newer housing without Brentwood-level pricing.
Amenities and Lifestyle
Burquitlam is quieter and more residential than Lougheed or Brentwood. Local amenities include a handful of restaurants, coffee shops, and small grocery stores near the SkyTrain station. For larger shopping, the Lougheed Town Centre mall is just one SkyTrain stop away. The area is close to hiking trails on Burnaby Mountain and has a calm, family-oriented feel. Some SFU students prefer this quieter vibe, especially if they want fewer distractions and a more affordable rent.
Transit Connections
Burquitlam Station is on the Evergreen Extension of the Millennium Line. You can reach Lougheed Town Centre in about 3 minutes and downtown Vancouver in roughly 35 minutes. The 145 bus runs from this area directly to SFU’s Burnaby campus. For students who also need access to Coquitlam Centre or Port Moody, Burquitlam is well-positioned.
Best For
Students who want affordable rent in a newer building, those who prefer a quiet residential neighbourhood, and anyone who needs easy access to both SFU and the broader Tri-Cities area.
Quick Comparison: 5 Best Neighbourhoods for SFU Off-Campus Housing
This table gives you a side-by-side look at the five neighbourhoods in Burnaby to help you decide which one fits your needs:
| Neighbourhood | Commute to SFU | Rent Range (1BR) | SkyTrain? | Best For |
| UniverCity | 5–15 min walk | $1,800–$2,200 | No (bus to station) | Closest to campus |
| Lougheed | 15–25 min bus | $1,600–$2,100 | Yes | Transit hub, amenities |
| Capitol Hill / Heights | 20–30 min bus | $1,400–$1,900 | No (R5 RapidBus) | Budget-friendly |
| Brentwood | 30–40 min | $1,800–$2,400 | Yes | Urban lifestyle |
| Burquitlam | 15–20 min bus | $1,600–$2,000 | Yes | Quiet, affordable |
Keep in mind that rental prices change frequently. Always check current listings before making a decision. Prices shown are general ranges based on recent market conditions and may vary depending on the building, unit size, and time of year.
Moving Tips for SFU Students Renting Off-Campus in Burnaby
What to Check Before You Sign a Lease
Before you commit to a rental, there are a few things every SFU student should verify. Check whether utilities like heat, electricity, water, and internet are included in the rent or billed separately. Ask about laundry access, since some Burnaby apartments do not have in-suite laundry. Find out if parking is included or if it costs extra. If you are renting a basement suite, ask about a separate entrance, natural light, and ventilation. Review the lease carefully and make sure it follows British Columbia’s Residential Tenancy Act. If you are unsure about your rights, TRAC (Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre) offers free legal education for BC renters.
Watch Out for Rental Scams
Rental scams are a real problem in the Burnaby and Metro Vancouver rental market, especially for students who are new to the area or arriving from another country. Never send a deposit before viewing a unit in person. Be cautious if the rent seems too low for the neighbourhood. Ask for a proper tenancy agreement and verify the landlord’s identity. SFU’s Residence and Housing office has resources and partnerships with listing platforms like Places4Students to help students find safe, verified rentals.
Planning Your Move into a Burnaby Apartment or Condo
Once you have signed your lease, it is time to plan the move. If you are moving into a condo building, check whether you need to book the service elevator in advance. Many Burnaby buildings, especially newer towers in Brentwood, Lougheed, and Burquitlam, have strict move-in rules including elevator bookings, time restrictions, and damage deposits. If you are moving from another part of Metro Vancouver or from outside the province, a local condo & apartment moving company can make the process much smoother. Even for small student moves, having a professional team handle furniture, boxes, and building logistics saves time and prevents damage.
Need help moving into your Burnaby student apartment? President Movers handles student moves across Burnaby, Coquitlam, and nearby areas. Get a free quote at presidentmovers.ca.
What President Movers Often See During Student Moves in Burnaby
After helping many SFU students move into off-campus housing across Burnaby and nearby areas, here are a few patterns we regularly see:
Students often underestimate how strict condo building rules are. Elevator bookings, move-in deposits, and time restrictions catch first-time renters off guard, especially in newer buildings around Brentwood Town Centre and Lougheed Town Centre.
Furniture size is a common problem. A large sofa or desk that fits fine in a previous space may not fit through the elevator, hallway, or front door of a smaller Burnaby apartment. Measuring before moving day is always worth the effort.
September is by far the busiest month for student moves in Burnaby. If you are starting the fall semester, try to book your local movers at least two to three weeks in advance. Waiting until the last minute can mean limited availability and higher costs.
Many students move with just a few boxes and some furniture, but even small moves benefit from proper planning. Having a clear list of what you are bringing, confirming building access details, and packing fragile items properly can make the difference between a smooth move and a stressful one.
Parking access near SFU and in many Burnaby condo buildings is limited. We often need to use loading docks, temporary street parking, or shared building access points. Knowing this in advance helps us plan the move efficiently.
When These Neighbourhoods Might Not Be the Right Fit
These five neighbourhoods are the most popular choices for SFU students in Burnaby, but they are not the only options, and they may not be right for everyone.
If you are attending SFU’s downtown Vancouver campus rather than the Burnaby Mountain campus, living in Burnaby may not make sense. Neighbourhoods like Gastown, Mount Pleasant, and the West End would likely give you a shorter commute. Similarly, if you are studying at the SFU Surrey campus, living near Surrey Central Station would be far more practical.
If you have a car and do not rely on transit, you may find more affordable housing in areas further from SkyTrain stations, such as the residential streets in South Burnaby, Sullivan Heights, or even parts of New Westminster. These areas often have lower rents, but the trade-off is a longer or less convenient commute to the Burnaby campus.
Students who need wheelchair-accessible housing, units that allow pets, or very specific amenities should focus on newer buildings, which are more likely to meet accessibility standards and offer flexible pet policies. Older buildings in areas like Capitol Hill and Burnaby Heights may have more limited accessibility features.
When to Start Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near SFU
Timing matters when searching for student housing in Burnaby. Here is a general timeline to help you plan:
| When | What to Do |
| 4–6 months before move-in | Start browsing listings on platforms like Places4Students, liv. rent, and Craigslist. Research neighbourhoods and set a realistic budget. |
| 2–3 months before | Narrow your search. Visit potential units in person if possible. Verify landlord identity and check for scams. Compare lease terms. |
| 1–2 months before | Sign your lease. Confirm move-in date, building access rules, and elevator booking if needed. Start planning your move. |
| 2–3 weeks before | Book your movers. Pack non-essential items. Set up mail forwarding if changing addresses. Arrange utility transfers. |
| Moving week | Confirm building access and elevator booking. Pack remaining items. Label boxes by room. Prepare a first-night bag with essentials. |
| First week in the new home | Unpack essentials. Set up the internet. Update your address with SFU, your bank, and government services. |
The Burnaby rental market is competitive, especially near SFU. Starting your search early gives you more options, better prices, and less stress when it comes time to move in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Off-Campus Housing Near SFU in Burnaby
Q: What is the cheapest neighbourhood for SFU students to rent in Burnaby?
Capitol Hill and Burnaby Heights generally offer some of the most affordable rental options close to the SFU Burnaby campus. Basement suites and shared rooms in this area can be found for $700 to $1,100 per month. Burquitlam is also a good option, with newer apartments at slightly lower prices than Brentwood or UniverCity.
Q: How long is the commute from Lougheed Town Centre to SFU Burnaby campus?
The bus ride from Lougheed Town Centre to SFU Burnaby takes about 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the route and traffic. The 143 and 145 buses run frequently during peak hours. Lougheed is one of the most popular student neighbourhoods because of its quick and reliable commute.
Q: Is UniverCity a good place for SFU students to live?
Yes, UniverCity is the closest off-campus option to SFU Burnaby. You can walk to class in 5 to 15 minutes. The trade-off is that rents are higher and the area has fewer shops and restaurants compared to neighbourhoods at the base of the mountain. It is a great choice if you prioritize proximity to campus and a quiet study environment.
Q: Do SFU students get a U-Pass for transit?
Yes. All SFU students pay for a U-Pass as part of their student fees each semester. The U-Pass gives you unlimited access to TransLink’s bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus services across Metro Vancouver. This makes transit-oriented neighbourhoods like Lougheed, Brentwood, and Burquitlam especially convenient for students.
Q: How much does it cost to hire movers for a student move in Burnaby?
The cost of a student’s move in Burnaby depends on the volume of items, the distance, and the building’s access conditions. A small local move with a few boxes and some furniture is typically less expensive than a full household move. Contact President Movers at presidentmovers.ca for a free, no-obligation estimate based on your specific situation.
Q: When is the best time to look for off-campus housing near SFU?
Start looking four to six months before your planned move-in date if possible. The busiest time for student housing in Burnaby is July through September, when fall semester move-ins peak. Starting your search early gives you more choices and better negotiating power on rent.
Q: Can I move into a Burnaby condo building without booking the elevator in advance?
Most Burnaby condo buildings require you to book the service elevator before your move-in date. Some buildings need two to four weeks of advance notice. If you skip this step, you may not be able to move in on your planned date. Always check with the building’s strata management or property manager well before your move.
Ready to move into your new off-campus place near SFU? President Movers handles student moves in Burnaby, Coquitlam, and across Metro Vancouver. Visit presidentmovers.ca or call us for a free moving estimate.