Living in Kingston

Kingston is a small city with a lot to offer. Landlords are somewhat skeptical of renting to undergrad students, but they are very keen on dealing with graduate students. Finding a 4 or 8 month rental or sublet should not be too difficult. There are places available year-round, but you will certainly have your pick during the summer months. 

There will be several places near the main Queen's campus and further west near Queen's Faculty of Education. If you want a really quiet place, there are several apartments full of seniors and small dogs just north of Princess Street that are accommodating to mature students. There are several discount grocery stores, thrift stores, and Giant Tigers to save money on household items and groceries.

Co-ops in Kingston are rare compared to Toronto or Ottawa, so you'll generally find less rental advice. But comparatively, it should be easier and cheaper to locate a place here.

Although closed in the winter months, taking the ferry to upper New York State makes for a good day or weekend trip. If you don't have a car, you can bike across Wolfe Island. VIA Rail is a great way to move a small amount of items to Kingston. Traveling by Greyhound can be cheaper, but dealing with the transfer at the Bay Street station in downtown Toronto can be a pain with luggage.

~Matthew, Summer Co-op