TRU Housing or Off-Campus - Which Is Right for You?

If you’re a student from another city, province or country, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to live in TRU housing or in off-campus housing in Kamloops. TRU offers several residence options that work well for some students, while living off-campus can be a better choice for others. The decision is influenced by several factors: on-campus or off-campus housing availability, the student’s finances, and personal preferences.

Thompson Rivers University, like many universities throughout the country, is constantly fighting a housing crisis. Although TRU opened its fourth residence, the Coyote Den (Sk̓elepéllcw) in 2023, the demand for on-campus housing remains high with wait lists and no guarantee of placement.

Here’s a side-by-side look at the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice.

TRU Housing Pros and Cons

Pros

Steps from class
No commute, close proximity to classes, campus amenities and student services.
Built-in social life
Living in TRU housing may make it easier to make friends, with more opportunities to socialize.
All-inclusive billing
Rent may be paid at the beginning of the semester for the academic year or in two installments.
Rent includes wi-fi access, furniture, furnishings, microwave, kitchen or access to shared kitchen.
View a table of TRU housing amenities.

Cons

Shared amenities
Students have to share a bathroom, kitchen, TV lounge, study space and laundry room.
Less personal space
Living in residences means less privacy, more rules and fewer personal freedoms.
Dining on-campus can get old
There are several dining and take-out options at TRU, though a student can tire of the same old choices.

Off-Campus Housing Pros and Cons

Pros

More independence, fewer rules
You’ll live on your own terms. While you have to be considerate of neighbours, in your place you are the king or queen.
Many amenities, and they’re all yours!
You’ll have your own kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room and laundry – and it’s your choice whether or not to share. You can buy whatever furniture you like and take it when you leave, since you own it.
Greater privacy
You can easily get “me time” and quiet time for study, even if you have a roommate.
Your time is your own to manage
Set your own routines, come and go as you please, and cook what and when you want.

Cons

More costly unless you share
Renting an apartment near TRU will probably cost you more than living on campus unless you have a roommate. You’ll need to furnish an off-campus apartment, better manage your finances, and pay rent monthly.
Farther away
You’ll need to factor in commuting time if you live far from campus. Our two apartment buildings at Summit Village Residences are about a 10-minute bus ride or 25-minute walk to TRU.
High demand
Good rentals near TRU can fill up fast, so planning ahead is key.

Summit Village Residences has Options for TRU Students

If you’re exploring off-campus housing options, Summit Village Residences offers a comfortable, convenient alternative to on-campus living. Read our FAQ, view our floor plans and complete our Preferred Unit form. A representative will be in touch within a few business days.