University District, Kingston

The University District in Kingston is a vibrant and densely populated neighborhood surrounding Queen’s University. Officially bordered by Victoria Street (west), Princess Street (north), Division & Barrie Streets (east), and King Street (south), the area is a hub of academic, social, and cultural activity.

Home primarily to students and university staff, the District is known for being one of Kingston’s most walkable and lively areas. Queen’s University itself anchors the neighborhood, offering public access to a range of facilities including art galleries, athletic centers, libraries, and museums. The area also features key institutions like Kingston Collegiate and Vocational Institute (KCVI) and Kingston General Hospital, along with numerous local businesses that cater to the needs of the student population.

The University District plays a key role in attracting prospective students due to its high concentration of rental housing and its immediate proximity to campus. Historically, the neighborhood underwent significant changes in the 1970s when the legal age of majority dropped from 21 to 18. This shift allowed students to sign leases independently, leading to a move away from boarding houses and toward private residences. As more students moved in and housing standards declined in the 1980s, the area became colloquially known as the “Student Ghetto.”

Today, the University District stands as a diverse, ever-evolving community that reflects the student energy of Queen’s University and the historical transitions of Kingston’s urban landscape.