Buying near Western University

Last reviewed October 30, 2026

Western's main campus sits north of downtown London, bordered by the Thames River, Richmond Street and Western Road. Its affiliated university colleges are nearby. Here's an overview of the areas parents most often consider, and what to look for. This site isn't affiliated with Western University.

Walking distance vs bus distance

Most students care about two things: how long it takes to get to class, and how far it is from where their friends live and go out. Western students generally have a transit pass included in their fees, so a home on a direct bus route can work as well as one within walking distance, and is often quieter and better value.

Areas close to campus

Broughdale and the streets east of campus

Just across the river from campus, this area is walkable to classes and has many older houses converted to student rentals, alongside long-time homeowners. It's convenient, but lively during term. Check the specific street, and ask about the property's licensing and rental history.

Off Western Road and Sarnia Road

West and northwest of campus, you'll find townhouse complexes, low-rise buildings and houses popular with students, within walking distance or a short bus ride. Some condo townhouse complexes here have large student populations, so ask about rental ratios and rules.

Masonville and Richmond Street North

North of campus, the Masonville area has condo apartments and townhouses near shopping and frequent bus service. It's a little farther from campus but generally quieter, which suits students who prioritise study and sleep, and appeals to future buyers when you sell.

Old North

Between campus and downtown, Old North is a leafy, established neighbourhood of larger older homes. It's within walking or cycling distance, and quieter than the closest student streets, though prices reflect that.

Downtown and Richmond Row

Some students prefer downtown condos near restaurants and nightlife, with a bus ride to campus. Downtown buildings range from older towers to new high-rises. See our sister site's guide to downtown London condos.

What to check before buying near Western

• Commute: walk or ride the route at 8:30 a.m. on a weekday in term.
• Street character: visit on a Friday night in September or October.
• Licensing: if roommates will pay rent, confirm City rental licensing requirements. See renting to roommates.
• Bedroom count and zoning: London's zoning has historically limited bedrooms per unit in many zones, so don't rely on a listing's bedroom count for a house you'll fill with roommates.
• Condo rules: some condos limit rentals or the number of occupants.
• Safety: working smoke and CO alarms, secure locks, good lighting, and egress windows in any basement bedroom.
• Parking: often limited near campus, and London restricts overnight on-street parking in many areas.

Resale considerations

When your student graduates, you'll either sell or rent the property. Homes and condos that appeal to both students and non-students, such as quieter streets, good layouts and parking, give you more options at sale time. A unit in a building dominated by student rentals may have a narrower pool of buyers.

First year in residence?

Many first-year students live in residence and move off campus in second year. That gives families a year to learn the city, see where friends are living, and buy without pressure. It also means a three-year horizon rather than four, so factor that into the buy vs rent math.

Questions for the seller

• Has the property been rented, and is it currently licensed with the City?
• Are there current tenants, and when do their leases end?
• Any history of by-law complaints or orders?
• Ages of the roof, furnace and appliances?