Niagara Falls, Ontario
A great place to live, study, and thrive
Renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, Niagara Falls draws millions of visitors from around the globe – but for those lucky enough to call it home, this city is so much more than its natural wonders.
Picture yourself in a bustling community where the energy of a big city blends seamlessly with the warmth of small-town charm. Niagara Falls offers the perfect balance: world-class attractions, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.
99,007
population
212 sq km
total area
12,000
estimated age of the waterfalls
As a student, you’ll have access to a wide range of educational opportunities, top-notch facilities, and a supportive community that will help you become a leader ready to make your impact on the world.
Distance from our downtown campus
35 km
Buffalo, NY
70 km
Hamilton, ON
128 km
Toronto, ON
Hear from The Mayor
(Study) in an innovative city where there’s great opportunities for employment, as well as a fun place to discover and call home. You’re going to learn, you’re going to have fun, and you’re going to open up the doors to opportunities.
Mayor Jim Diodati
City of Niagara Falls
Niagara region
Nestled between two Great Lakes, the region of Niagara offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and modern innovation. From sprawling vineyards to pristine beaches, with plenty of lush green spaces in between, the area is made up of 12 municipalities offering a mix of urban and rural living.
While it boasts a rich agricultural heritage, as a key player in one of North America's busiest economic corridors, Niagara is also home to cutting-edge industries, from smart factories to agricultural technology. Its booming tourism sector attracts visitors year-round, and the thriving tech scene positions it as the third most competitive North American centre for digital media.
Top sectors in Niagara
Healthcare
Manufacturing
Tourism
Agri-Business
Cost of living
Once you have made the decision to come and study here, you will need to decide where you are going to live. Our downtown campus is easily accessible via regional and inter-municipal transportation, giving you the option of living close to campus or commuting in from a neighbouring city.
To help you plan your expenses, the information on this page was compiled from several websites maintained by third parties. The amounts listed below are meant to provide you with an estimated cost of living, UNF does not take any responsibility for its accuracy. Actual costs are dependent on a number of a factors.
*The figures provided are estimated values of current market prices as of December 2024. The amounts are subject to change, this is meant to provide you with a framework for planning your expenses during your studies.
** Shared accommodations will cost less. These figures were sourced in December 2024.
Accommodations
We manage our own student residence, offering furnished suites for students with several amenities including wi-fi, common spaces for socializing and studying, paid laundry facilities, and on-site activities and programming. Housing Services has developed partnerships with organizations like SpacesShared, 4Stay, and Niagara Homestay to offer you more options, allowing you to find housing that suits your individual needs.
Tenant rights
In Ontario, the Landlord and Tenant Board, operated by Tribunals Ontario, is the governing body that oversees the Residential Tenancies Act and provides dispute resolution between tenants and landlords in the province. They have information about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant renting in Ontario. Housing Services can offer advice and support in navigating the rental process.
Public transportation
Within the Niagara region, public transportation is provided through Niagara Region Transit, an integrated transit system. Monthly passes can be purchased at one price for those only travelling within Niagara Falls, and another price for those travelling throughout the region.
If you decide to live outside of Niagara, there are several providers offering transportation to Niagara Falls. GO Transit offers train and bus service, with a discount available for UNF students. Additionally, Megabus and Flixbus both offer bus service between Toronto and Niagara Falls.
Phone contract and internet
There are several phone and internet providers in Canada, with a range of pricing options depending on your individual needs. Providers offer better deals to those who bring their own device with them. Some accommodation options may come equipped with internet.
Health insurance
International students are required to have health insurance; it is included in your student fees. All enrolled in-person international students at UNF are covered by a health insurance plan provided by GuardMe. It automatically starts on first day of the first month of your studies.
Food estimates
Like many countries around the world, food prices in Canada have increased in recent years and this has impacted the cost of buying groceries and dining out. An average meal in a Canadian restaurant can vary from $15 to $30 for an individual, depending on the type of establishment, and groceries can range from $400-478 a month. The Student Success Office can help you find student discount programs, coupon apps, and affordable shopping options.
