Moving to Queen's University
A guide for new students and families getting oriented before move-in
Starting at Queen's means starting in Kingston, and getting a sense of the school and the city ahead of time makes the actual move a lot less stressful. Here's what to know before you arrive.
About Queen's University
Queen's was founded on October 16, 1841, making it one of Canada's oldest universities. It's a public research university and a member of the U15, the group of Canada's most research-intensive universities. Queen's has more than 30,000 full- and part-time students, with a campus sitting right on the shore of Lake Ontario.
Where Queen's Students Live
Most Queen's students live in Midtown or the University District, the neighbourhoods immediately around campus. First-year students are usually in residence, while upper-year students tend to move into shared houses and apartments nearby. Housing in these areas fills up fast, especially around the common lease turnover dates each September and April, so it's worth starting your search early rather than waiting until the last minute.
Getting Oriented: What's Nearby
One of the advantages of Queen's location is how close it sits to downtown Kingston. Most student housing is an easy walk from Princess Street, the waterfront, and the City Hall and Confederation Park area, so you don't need a car to get around day to day. Kingston itself sits roughly halfway between Toronto and Montreal, with Ottawa also a reasonable drive away, which matters if you're coming from further afield or heading home on breaks.
Before You Arrive
A few things worth sorting out ahead of time: confirm your housing as early as possible, since good options near campus go quickly. Set up utilities and internet before move-in day if you're heading into an off-campus house, since providers can take a few days to connect service. And keep an eye on Kingston's weather if you're moving in September or arriving for winter term, conditions can affect move timing more than people expect.
When You're Ready to Move
Once your housing is confirmed, the logistics come down to timing and how much you're bringing. Our Queen's Move-In Guide covers what to expect on move-in day itself, and our Queen's Move-Out Guide covers the April lease turnover when the year ends. For the moving service itself, our Queen's Students page has pricing and booking details built specifically around Queen's move-out season.
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Moving to Queen's FAQs
Answers to what new students and families ask us most.
When was Queen's University founded?
Queen's University was founded on October 16, 1841, making it one of Canada's oldest universities.
How many students attend Queen's?
Queen's has more than 30,000 full- and part-time students, and is a member of the U15 group of Canadian research-intensive universities.
Where do most Queen's students live?
Most Queen's students live in Midtown or the University District, both close to campus and downtown Kingston.
Is Queen's within walking distance of downtown Kingston?
Yes. Most Queen's housing is within walking distance of downtown, including Princess Street and the waterfront.
When should I start looking for housing near Queen's?
As early as you can. Housing near Queen's fills up quickly around the usual September and April turnover dates.
Is Kingston close to other major cities?
Yes. Kingston sits roughly halfway between Toronto and Montreal, with Ottawa also within a reasonable drive.
Where can I find a move-in specific guide?
See our Queen's Move-In Guide for move-in day specifics, or our Queen's Move-Out Guide for end-of-year logistics.
How do I get a moving quote once I've found a place?
Visit our Queen's Students page or try our Moving Cost Calculator for a personalized estimate.