Wondering what accommodation in Canada really costs if you’re moving as a student or a new expat?
The right city can change everything — your monthly rent to your daily commute. Exploring student housing options in Canada or looking for furnished apartments for rent in Canada? If you know what to expect, the process would be smoother.
The average rent for students in Canada usually falls between CAD 600 and CAD 1,200 (₹37,000–₹74,000) per month. However, living costs in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal can be very different, depending on your housing choice.
In this guide, you’ll find:
Rent comparison between Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and more
Best cities to live in Canada for students and affordable picks for expats in 2025
Tips for renting an apartment in Canada as a student
Differences between student dormitories vs private rentals in Canada
Advice for finding short-term accommodation for students in Canada
If you're serious about managing the cost of living in Canada as an international student or professional, knowing where to rent—and when—is the smartest place to start.
Planning your move to Canada? Start with these resources:
Average asking rents in Canada fell for the sixth straight month, reaching $2,119 CAD in March 2024 — a 2.8% drop compared to March 2023.
Student Accommodation in Canada: What to Know
Every student moving to Canada faces one big question — where to live.
Rent, location, and housing type shape your student life from day one. If you want to stay close to your university, cut commuting time, and manage your costs, understanding student housing options in Canada is the first step.
Types of Accommodation for Students in Canada
Students usually pick between university dormitories, shared apartments, or private rentals. Each option comes with different rent rates, lease rules, and daily living experiences.
Housing Type
Key Features
Average Monthly Rent
University Dormitories
On-campus, shared rooms, meals sometimes included
CAD 500–900 (₹31,000–₹55,000)
Shared Apartments
Private bedrooms, shared kitchen and utilities
CAD 600–1,200 (₹37,000–₹74,000)
Private Rentals
Full independence, studios or 1BHK flats
CAD 800–1,500 (₹49,000–₹92,000)
Short term accommodation for students in Canada is also available if you need flexible stay options for a semester or internship.
Best Cities for Students in Canada
Some cities offer a better mix of affordable rent, quality education, and student life. The best cities to live in Canada for students 2025 include:
Toronto: Strong job market, diverse culture, high living costs.
Vancouver: Beautiful surroundings, active outdoor life, very competitive housing.
Montreal: Affordable rent, rich art and student scene, bilingual environment.
Ottawa: Safe, government city, reasonable rent, smaller international student communities.
The cheapest cities to live in Canada for students often include Montreal and Ottawa, giving you more space for your money compared to Toronto and Vancouver.
Average Rent Trends for Students in Canada
Here’s a quick rent comparison between Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa:
City
Average Student Rent (Monthly)
Toronto
CAD 800–1,300 (₹49,000–₹79,000)
Vancouver
CAD 900–1,400 (₹55,000–₹86,000)
Montreal
CAD 500–900 (₹31,000–₹55,000)
Ottawa
CAD 600–1,000 (₹37,000–₹61,000)
Monthly rent in Toronto for students and average monthly rent in Vancouver for students are often double compared to cities like Montreal.
University Dormitories vs Private Rentals in Canada
Student dormitories vs private rentals in Canada comes down to lifestyle and cost.
Factor
University Dormitories
Private Rentals
Cost
Lower, often includes some meals
Higher, depends on location and size
Flexibility
Fixed academic contracts
More flexible lease terms
Privacy
Shared rooms, less independence
Full control over your space
Renting an apartment in Canada as a student gives more privacy, but also means higher costs for utilities, furnishing, and internet.
Tips to Find Housing Early
Start looking at least five to six months before your classes start. Early booking gives you better rent deals and more location options.
Use trusted platforms like HousingAnywhere, Places4Students, and university housing services.
Always check if listings are furnished apartments for rent in Canada or require you to buy your own furniture.
Ask landlords clearly about what is included in the rent — utilities, internet, maintenance fees can add an extra CAD 100–200 (₹6,000–₹12,000) monthly if not included.
Verify listings with video tours or in-person visits. Never transfer deposits without a signed lease.
Students who act early find safer, cheaper housing without last-minute stress.
Still wondering if Canada is the right choice? Check out Why Study in Canada for all the advantages.
Accommodation in Canada for Working Professionals and Expats: Rent Trends and Tips
Moving to Canada for work means picking a place that fits your budget, your commute, and your daily life. Rent costs vary sharply between cities. So it’s smart to know which places offer better deals for expats, and what you should expect before signing a lease.
Housing Overview for Professionals and Expats in Canada
Most working professionals choose between studios, 1BHK flats, or shared apartments. If you are renting an apartment in Canada as an expat, expect furnished units in the city centers and cheaper unfurnished flats in suburban areas.
Housing Type
Key Features
Average Monthly Rent
Studio Apartment
Single occupant, near business districts
CAD 1,200–1,800 (₹73,000–₹1.1 lakh)
1BHK Apartment
Better for couples or solo expats
CAD 1,400–2,200 (₹85,000–₹1.35 lakh)
Shared Housing
Cheaper, social living, mostly outside downtown
CAD 700–1,200 (₹43,000–₹73,000)
Furnished apartments for rent in Canada are common in Toronto and Vancouver, but they usually come at a higher monthly price.
Best Cities for Professionals and Expats in Canada
Toronto and Vancouver pull most working expats because of strong job markets. However, the cost of living in Canada for international students and professionals is easier to manage in places like Calgary, Ottawa, or Halifax.
Toronto: Business and finance hub, higher monthly rent.
Vancouver: Tech, film industries, beautiful living spaces, very high rents.
Calgary: Oil, energy, tech sectors booming, cheaper than Toronto.
Affordable cities for expats in Canada like Calgary and Ottawa offer bigger spaces for lower rent, especially if you don't mind a quieter lifestyle.
Rent Comparison Across Top Cities in Canada
City
Average Monthly Rent (Studio/1BHK)
Toronto
CAD 1,600–2,500 (₹97,000–₹1.52 lakh)
Vancouver
CAD 1,700–2,700 (₹1.03 lakh–₹1.63 lakh)
Montreal
CAD 900–1,500 (₹55,000–₹92,000)
Calgary
CAD 1,000–1,600 (₹61,000–₹97,000)
Monthly rent in Toronto for students and professionals is higher than almost every other Canadian city. Vancouver comes close, but cities like Montreal and Calgary give more space for your money.
Transportation and Commute in Canada
Public transport works well in most big cities. In Toronto and Vancouver, many professionals pick apartments near metro stations or bus routes to cut down commuting time and cost. A monthly metro pass in Toronto costs around CAD 156 (₹9,500), while Vancouver’s transit pass costs about CAD 130 (₹8,000).
Living near public transport hubs saves money and avoids the hassle of driving through city traffic.
Buying a car only makes sense if you live in outer suburbs where metro or bus access is limited. Car ownership comes with extra costs like insurance, parking, and fuel, which can easily add CAD 300–500 (₹18,000–₹30,000) per month.
Documents Needed for Renting in Canada
Expats renting an apartment in Canada usually need:
A valid work permit or study visa
Proof of income like job offer letters or pay slips
A government-issued ID (passport or Canadian ID if available)
Sometimes a reference letter from an employer or previous landlord
Some landlords also ask for a Canadian bank account or credit check, especially in Toronto and Vancouver.
Tip:
Prepare digital copies of all documents in advance. Rental units in bigger cities get booked fast, so having everything ready can help you lock a good deal immediately.
Families moving to Canada focus on three things — space, safety, and access to schools. The right home early decides how quickly your family adjusts and how much you spend every month.
Best Housing Types for Families in Canada
Family accommodation in Canada usually falls into three major categories:
Housing Type
Features
Average Monthly Rent
Townhouses
Two to three floors, small private backyard, family-friendly layouts
CAD 2,000–3,500 (₹1.22 lakh–₹2.14 lakh)
2–3BHK Apartments
Compact city living with secure entry and shared amenities
CAD 1,800–3,000 (₹1.10 lakh–₹1.83 lakh)
Suburban Homes
Detached or semi-detached, bigger plots, quiet areas
CAD 2,200–4,000 (₹1.34 lakh–₹2.44 lakh)
Townhouses and suburban homes give the most space for growing families, especially if you plan to stay long-term.
Best Family-Friendly Cities and Neighborhoods in Canada
The best places for international students to live in Canada often double as great family hubs.
City
Popular Family Areas
Why Families Choose Them
Toronto
Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington
Top schools, parks, safe streets
Vancouver
Burnaby, Richmond, North Vancouver
Outdoor spaces, good public transport, safety
Calgary
Tuscany, Brentwood, Evanston
Affordable housing, short commutes, playgrounds
Ottawa
Barrhaven, Kanata, Orleans
Budget-friendly homes, bilingual schools, family clinics
Families wanting larger homes without city-center costs often settle in these suburban neighborhoods.
Rent Overview for Family-Sized Homes in Canada
Average rent changes sharply between cities:
City
Family Home Rent (Monthly)
Toronto
CAD 2,500–4,500 (₹1.52 lakh–₹2.75 lakh)
Vancouver
CAD 2,800–4,800 (₹1.70 lakh–₹2.93 lakh)
Calgary
CAD 1,800–3,000 (₹1.10 lakh–₹1.83 lakh)
Ottawa
CAD 1,700–2,800 (₹1.04 lakh–₹1.71 lakh)
Calgary and Ottawa offer better space-to-cost value compared to Toronto and Vancouver.
Accessibility to Schools, Parks, and Healthcare in Canada
Families living in Canada usually find strong support systems within 5–10 minutes of residential zones.
Facility
What to Expect
Schools
Public schools are free; private/international options available
Healthcare
Public hospitals accessible across major cities; provincial insurance needed
Parks and Recreation
Playgrounds, sports centers, walking trails easily found in suburbs
Families who live near parks and schools enjoy safer neighborhoods and higher property values.
Safety, Lifestyle Amenities, and Cost Considerations in Canada
Picking the right family accommodation in Canada means balancing safety, lifestyle, and monthly expenses:
Factor
What to Consider
Safety
Suburbs like Oakville, Burnaby, and Kanata rank among the safest areas
Lifestyle Amenities
Look for groceries, malls, clinics, libraries within walking distance
Cost vs Space
City apartments offer convenience but less space; suburbs give more room for the same price
Families who settle in suburbs spend less monthly and get more living space, though commutes to city centers can be longer.
Exploring job opportunities? Understanding NOC Codes in Canada can help you find the right career path.
Tips for Finding the Best Accommodation in Canada
Accommodation in Canada offers plenty of good choices if you know where and when to look. Students and expats who prepare early usually find better homes at better prices — with less stress when it's time to move.
Do’s and Don’ts for Renting in Canada
Do’s
Why It Helps
Start your search 5–6 months early
Good apartments close to universities and offices are easier to get
Stick to trusted rental sites
Platforms like Realtor.ca, Padmapper, and HousingAnywhere protect your search
Confirm listing details
Asking for video tours or real pictures ensures what you see is what you get
Review lease terms carefully
Clear rental terms help you avoid surprises later
Don’ts
A Smarter Approach Instead
Pay deposits before signing a lease
Always complete the paperwork first for a safe transaction
Assume all utilities are included
Always ask about Wi-Fi, electricity, and heating costs
Ignore neighborhood research
Check commute times, nearby amenities, and transport access to find the right fit
Students renting an apartment in Canada during peak seasons like May to August benefit from early action and verified searches.
How upGrad Supports Students and Expats Moving to Canada
At upGrad, we offer expert resources, trusted advice, and personalized counselling to help you plan your move confidently.
Here’s how we support you:
Resource
How It Helps You
Online Articles and Guides
Understand everything from student visas to affordable cities for expats in Canada
Test Preparation Resources (IELTS, TOEFL)
Prepare for exams with tips, strategies, and study guides
SOP and LOR Writing Help
Access templates, examples, and advice to create strong applications
University and Course Shortlisting Tools
Explore Canadian universities that match your goals and budget
Personalized Counselling
Get one-on-one guidance on study plans, housing options, and career pathways
Whether you're looking for the cheapest cities to live in Canada for students or need help understanding how furnished apartments for rent in Canada work, we have detailed articles and expert advice ready for you.
Still deciding which Canadian city or program fits your plans? Book a free counseling session and get expert advice tailored to your goals.
Also, check out free short courses to boost your skills while preparing for your study abroad journey.
Conclusion: Is Accommodation in Canada Affordable?
Accommodation in Canada fits a wide range of budgets when you plan smartly. Students and expats who choose cities thoughtfully and start early find comfortable places that support their goals.
Pros:
Plenty of student dormitories, private apartments, and suburban homes
Strong public transport systems reduce daily travel costs
Welcoming international communities helps new residents settle quickly
Points to Plan For:
Rent in cities like Toronto and Vancouver is higher, so starting your search early matters
Furnished apartments cost more, but save time and setup expenses
Final Verdict: Accommodation in Canada opens many possibilities for students and expats. With early planning and the right city choice, you can find a home that matches your budget, your lifestyle, and your future dreams.
FAQs About Accommodation in Canada
What is the average rent for student accommodation in Canada?
The average rent for students in Canada usually falls between CAD 600 and CAD 1,200 (₹37,000–₹74,000) per month. Cities like Montreal and Ottawa offer lower rent compared to Toronto and Vancouver.
How can international students find affordable accommodation in Canada?
International students often find affordable student accommodation in Canada by using verified rental platforms like HousingAnywhere, Places4Students, and by checking university housing boards. Early applications and shared apartments usually lower monthly costs.
Which city in Canada is best for cheap accommodation?
Montreal and Ottawa rank among the cheapest cities to live in Canada for students. Students find better space, lower rent, and strong public transport options compared to cities like Toronto.
How much does accommodation cost in Canada for working professionals?
Working professionals in Canada usually pay CAD 1,200–2,200 (₹73,000–₹1.35 lakh) per month for studios or 1BHK apartments, depending on the city. Housing costs are higher in Toronto and Vancouver but more reasonable in Calgary and Ottawa.
Can students rent apartments privately in Canada?
Yes, students can rent private apartments in Canada once they meet basic leasing requirements like a government ID, proof of university admission, and sometimes a guarantor.
Is it easy for expats to find accommodation in Canada?
Expats find it easier to rent accommodation when they have their visa, work permit, and bank account ready. Many furnished apartments for rent in Canada cater to short-term and long-term expats.
What documents are needed to rent accommodation in Canada?
Students and expats renting an apartment in Canada usually need a passport or Canadian ID, proof of income or university admission letter, and visa or work permit. Some landlords also request a Canadian bank account or a local guarantor.
Are furnished apartments available for students in Canada?
Yes, furnished apartments for rent in Canada are common, especially around major universities. Furnished options cost slightly more but help students settle quickly without extra expenses for furniture.
How early should students book accommodation in Canada?
Students should book their student accommodation in Canada at least 5 to 6 months before their classes start. Early booking gives more housing choices and better rental deals.
What websites are best to find accommodation in Canada?
Popular and trusted websites include Realtor.ca, Padmapper, Kijiji (for Toronto and Vancouver), and university-specific housing portals. These platforms list short term accommodation for students in Canada as well.
Do rental prices in Canada include utilities?
Sometimes. Dormitories and serviced apartments often include utilities in the rent. Private rentals usually require tenants to pay separately for electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi. Always check the lease agreement carefully.
Is short-term accommodation easily available for students and expats in Canada?
Yes, short-term accommodation options for students and expats in Canada are widely available. Serviced apartments, shared rentals, and university dormitory extensions offer flexible lease options.
What are the hidden costs when renting accommodation in Canada?
Common hidden costs include utilities (electricity, internet), tenant insurance, application fees, and sometimes maintenance charges. Clarify all expenses with the landlord before signing any agreement.
Is accommodation near universities cheaper in Canada?
Accommodation close to universities usually costs slightly more due to high demand. However, students save money on commuting. Shared housing near campus is a common budget-friendly choice.
How much deposit is required for renting accommodation in Canada?
The security deposit is usually one month's rent. In some cases, landlords ask for the first and last month's rent upfront. Always confirm deposit terms clearly when renting an apartment in Canada as a student or expat.