A Guide to Accommodation in Canada for Students & Professionals

Accommodation in Canada for students has become one of the biggest challenges for newcomers. A recent report from Thompson Rivers University shows that over 55% of international students face serious trouble with housing. That’s a big deal, especially when your studies and job plans depend on having a stable place to live.

This blog covers accommodation in Canada for students, professionals and families. It breaks down how renting works, which housing types are common, and which cities have high demand. You’ll also see how options differ for students, full-time workers, and those on a tight budget.

The goal? To help you settle faster, avoid housing surprises, and pick a space that actually works for your needs.

If you’re moving to Canada for studies or work, finding the right accommodation can make a big difference. 

– Explore Diploma Courses in Canada for quick, practical pathways into the workforce.

– Interested in tech or life sciences? These Biotechnology Courses and Digital Marketing Courses in Canada are in high demand.

– Or visit our all-in-one Study in Canada guide for everything from universities to immigration.

Source: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/student-accommodation-market/canada 

The student accommodation market in Canada is growing steadily. In 2024, the market was valued at US$1,491.7 million, and it’s expected to reach US$2,038.2 million by 2030. With a CAGR of 5.4% from 2025 to 2030, this rise reflects the increasing demand for purpose-built housing as international enrollments continue to climb.

Accommodation in Canada for Students

The right place to live is one of the first big decisions after receiving your admission offer. Accommodation in Canada for students can vary widely across cities and universities, so understanding the basics helps you settle in faster and smarter.

Popular Accommodation in Canada for Students

Accommodation in Canada for students includes a mix of on-campus and off-campus options—each with its own pros and costs.

Common Housing Options for Students in Canada

Type	Features	Best For
On-Campus Residences	Shared or private rooms, utilities included, close to class	First-year or international students
Homestays	Stay with a Canadian family, often includes meals	Newcomers seeking home comfort
Shared Apartments (WGs)	Private room with shared kitchen and living space	Students who want flexibility
Private Rentals	Studios or 1BHK apartments, often unfurnished	Final-year students or couples

Accommodation in Canada for students gives you options to match your budget and lifestyle.

Top Cities for Accommodation in Canada for Students

Some cities in Canada are easier to navigate for students—better housing access, shorter commute times, and higher chances of finding part-time work. If you’re searching for accommodation in Canada for students, these cities give you a head start.

Where Indian Students Prefer to Stay in Canada

City	Popular Universities	Student-Friendly Areas
Toronto	University of Toronto, Ryerson University	Scarborough, North York, Downtown
Vancouver	UBC, Simon Fraser University	Kitsilano, Burnaby, East Vancouver
Montreal	McGill, Concordia	Plateau, Downtown, NDG
Calgary	University of Calgary	Brentwood, Varsity, Capitol Hill
Ottawa	University of Ottawa, Carleton University	Sandy Hill, Glebe, Little Italy

Accommodation in Canada for students is easier to find when you stay near transit lines and campuses.

Planning your budget? This Cost of Living in Canada guide breaks down rent, groceries, and transport expenses.

Accommodation in Canada for Students: Costs

Rent changes based on how close you are to the city center, how many roommates you have, and whether the flat comes furnished. Accommodation in Canada for students in cities like Toronto and Vancouver will cost more—but you’ll also find more job options nearby.

Monthly Rent Estimates (Student Housing)

Type of Housing	Cost in CAD	INR Equivalent
University Dorm	CAD 500 – CAD 900	₹30,500 – ₹54,900
Homestay (with meals)	CAD 700 – CAD 1,000	₹42,700 – ₹61,000
Shared Apartment	CAD 600 – CAD 900	₹36,600 – ₹54,900
Private Studio/1BHK	CAD 900 – CAD 1,400	₹54,900 – ₹85,400

Additional Costs to Watch Out For:

• Laundry: CAD 2–CAD 3 per load (₹120–₹180)
• Transit pass: CAD 90–CAD 120/month (₹5,500–₹7,300)
• Heating (in winter): Can add CAD 50–CAD 100 to utility bills

Furnished units often cost more upfront but save you the hassle of setup.

How to Find Accommodation in Canada for Students

The best time to search for housing is 2–3 months before classes begin. If you're too late, options shrink fast, especially around university zones. To find accommodation in Canada for students that fits your location and budget, use a mix of trusted portals and campus support.

Where Indian Students Usually Find Housing

Source	What You’ll Find
University Housing Office	Dormitory rooms, pre-verified off-campus listings
Places4Students.com	Rooms, studios, and shared listings near colleges
Facebook Housing Groups	Peer-to-peer posts, last-minute sublets, deals
Kijiji.ca	Studio apartments, private rooms (always verify)
Homestay.com	Meal-based family stays, mostly for short terms

Quick Tips That Actually Help:

• Filter for “utilities included” to avoid surprise bills
• Always ask for a rental receipt and clear terms before sending money
• Indian student groups on Telegram or WhatsApp often share leads before listings go public

Don’t wait until arrival. Housing gets picked fast—especially in cities with a September intake rush.

Looking for affordable cities to settle in? Here’s a helpful list of the Cheapest Cities in Canada for international students and professionals.

Curious about student experience beyond classes? Learn more about Student Life in Canada and what to expect on campus and off.

Accommodation in Canada for Working Professionals

Some professionals prefer a quiet one-bedroom close to work, while others look for furnished rentals with flexible leases. Accommodation in Canada for working professionals often depends on job location, lifestyle, and how long they plan to stay.

Common Housing Options for Professionals

Housing Type	Features	Who It Suits
1BHK / 2BHK Apartments	Private units, often unfurnished, long-term lease	Full-time employees, couples
Furnished Rentals	Ready-to-move-in, flexible duration, usually costlier	Short-term professionals, relocations
Shared Condos	Private room with shared kitchen/living space	Early-career professionals
Basement Suites	Separate entry, lower cost, may include some utilities	Remote workers, contractors

Accommodation in Canada for working professionals usually comes with clearer lease terms and more privacy than student housing.

Top Suburbs for Professional Accommodation in Canada

The right suburb makes a big difference to your work-life balance. The basic requirements include access to transit, decent Wi-Fi, and a safe neighborhood. Here are the top picks in major cities where professionals tend to live.

Best Suburbs for Working Professionals in Canada

City	Recommended Suburbs	Why It Works
Toronto	Etobicoke, North York, Liberty Village	Good condos, near downtown, TTC access
Vancouver	Burnaby, Mount Pleasant, Kitsilano	Easy SkyTrain access, coworking spaces, cafes
Calgary	Beltline, Brentwood, Sunnyside	Near downtown offices, quieter residential streets
Ottawa	Kanata, Nepean, Centretown	Tech hubs nearby, family-friendly, OC Transpo access
Montreal	Griffintown, Côte-des-Neiges	Close to commercial zones, strong metro coverage

Professionals often choose locations that balance work access with daily convenience—grocery, gym, and transit matter.

Cost of Accommodation for Professionals in Canada

Rent for professionals depends on the city, apartment size, and whether it’s furnished. Accommodation in Canada for working professionals tends to fall in the mid- to high-range, especially in business hubs.

Average Monthly Rent for Professional Housing

Housing Type	Rent (CAD)	INR Equivalent
1BHK Apartment	CAD 1,400 – CAD 2,100	₹85,400 – ₹1.28L
2BHK Apartment	CAD 1,900 – CAD 2,700	₹1.16L – ₹1.64L
Furnished Condo	CAD 2,000 – CAD 3,000	₹1.22L – ₹1.83L
Basement Suite	CAD 1,000 – CAD 1,500	₹61,000 – ₹91,500

Additional Costs to Plan For:

• Utilities: CAD 150–CAD 250/month (₹9,100–₹15,250)
• Internet: CAD 60–CAD 80/month (₹3,660–₹4,880)
• Parking: May cost extra in condo buildings

Furnished rentals cost more but save on setup—ideal for short stays or those without local furniture access.

How to Apply for Accommodation in Canada as a Professional

Most professionals moving to Canada are expected to show income stability and rental readiness. Landlords usually look for tenants who are organized, responsive, and able to commit to a lease without issues. So, it helps to prepare in advance.

Start by shortlisting 3–5 verified listings in the area you’re moving to. Contact landlords or agents with a clear message—introduce yourself, share your move-in date, and ask what’s included in the rent. Be ready to act fast. Good places in the central suburbs don’t stay available for long.

Accommodation in Canada for working professionals is competitive in top cities—clear communication and timing can make all the difference.

Scholarships can reduce your housing burden—this post on Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada helps you find opportunities to apply.

Family Accommodation in Canada for Indian Expats

Indian families moving to Canada usually prefer housing that offers space, stability, and access to nearby schools and stores. Family accommodation in Canada is often found in quiet suburbs with parks and public transport nearby.

Housing Formats That Suit Families Best

Type of Housing	What It Offers	Best For
2BHK / 3BHK Apartments	Apartment complexes with elevators, parking, and utilities	Small to mid-size families
Detached Houses	Independent homes with backyard space	Larger families with kids
Townhouses	Multi-floor units with shared walls, common in suburbs	Working couples with 1–2 kids
Basement Units	Separate units in houses with private entry	Families on a tight budget

Family accommodation in Canada gives you more control over your space and lifestyle—especially in the long term.

Best Suburbs for Families Looking for Accommodation in Canada

Families don’t just look at rent—they look at the full picture. School quality, local Indian stores, nearby clinics, and green spaces all play a role. These suburbs strike the right balance.

Top Suburbs for Indian Families in Canada

City	Suburbs to Explore	Why Families Like Them
Toronto	Mississauga, Brampton	Indian grocery stores, public schools, TTC routes
Vancouver	Surrey, Burnaby	Large Indian community, temples, green areas
Calgary	Northeast Calgary, Coventry Hills	Affordable homes, access to community schools
Ottawa	Barrhaven, Nepean	Safe, quiet, near playgrounds and schools
Edmonton	Mill Woods, Terwillegar	Balanced rent, healthcare centers, cultural groups

Family accommodation in Canada works best in suburbs where schools and community life go hand-in-hand.

Monthly Cost of Family Accommodation in Canada

Family homes cost more than student or single rentals—but they also come with more space, better neighborhoods, and peace of mind. Here’s what to expect.

Rent Ranges for Family Housing (Monthly)

Home Type	Rent Range (CAD)	Approx. in INR
2BHK Apartment	$1,800 – $2,500	₹1.10L – ₹1.52L
3BHK Apartment	$2,400 – $3,200	₹1.46L – ₹1.95L
Detached House	$2,800 – $4,000	₹1.71L – ₹2.44L
Townhouse	$2,200 – $3,000	₹1.34L – ₹1.83L

Extra Monthly Costs to Budget For:

• Utilities: $200–$350 (₹12,200–₹21,350)
• Internet + Cable: $80–$120 (₹4,880–₹7,320)
• Insurance: Optional, but often recommended

Rent can vary based on furnishing, location, and lease terms—always check what's included before signing.

Factors to Consider When Renting with Family

Family accommodation in Canada should support your schedule, budget, and cultural needs.

Checklist for Indian Families Renting in Canada

Factor	Why It Matters
School Catchments	Public school access depends on your home address
Indian Grocery Stores	Saves time, supports food habits
Healthcare Clinics	Easy access in case of emergencies or routine care
Public Transport	Helps kids, working parents, and non-drivers
Outdoor Spaces	Vital for children’s wellbeing and daily play

The right suburb can make your family’s transition smoother—from day one.

Wondering what your average salary could look like after graduation? This post on the Average Salary in Canada gives you a realistic picture by field.

Renting Accommodation in Canada: What Everyone Should Know

If you're a student or a working professional, renting accommodation in Canada comes with a few non-negotiables—documents, lease terms, and deciding between furnished or unfurnished spaces. Knowing the basics can save time, avoid missteps, and help you move in smoothly.

Required Documents for Renting in Canada

You’ll need to show that you’re a reliable tenant. Landlords may vary in what they ask for, but most expect a few key documents upfront. Students might be asked for proof of enrolment, while professionals will need income proof.

Commonly Requested Paperwork:

• Government-issued ID (passport, permit, visa)
• Proof of admission (for students) or employment letter (for professionals)
• Recent bank statements
• Previous rental references (if any)
• Credit history (especially in larger cities)

Renting accommodation in Canada becomes easier when you have these documents ready in one folder—digitally and in print.

Rental Rules and Lease Agreements in Canada

Leases in Canada are legally binding. You’ll either sign a fixed-term lease or a month-to-month agreement. Always ask if the price listed is the full amount or if utilities are extra.

Rental Rules to Know:

• Security deposit: Usually one month’s rent (refundable unless there’s damage)
• Lease duration: Commonly 12 months; some landlords allow 6-month or flexible terms
• Rent increases: Governed by provincial laws—landlords can’t raise rent arbitrarily
• Maintenance: Landlords are responsible for repairs unless the damage was caused by the tenant
• Notice period: Typically 60 days when moving out (check your lease for the exact rule)

Make sure to get a signed copy of the lease and read it fully—ask if you're unsure about any line.

Furnished vs Unfurnished Accommodation in Canada

Not all listings in Canada include furniture. In fact, many long-term rentals come unfurnished, especially in the suburbs. 

So, should you go for a furnished or unfurnished unit?

Option	Pros	When to Choose
Furnished	Includes bed, sofa, kitchen essentials—ready to move in	Ideal for newcomers, short stays
Unfurnished	Lower rent, more control over setup	Good for long-term leases, families

Furnished places help you settle faster. But if you’re staying more than a year, unfurnished units may give you better value.

If you’re applying soon, here’s your full guide to the Student Visa for Canada, including required documents and timelines.

Short-Term Accommodation in Canada for Newcomers

If you’ve just arrived in Canada, you might not want to immediately jump into a year-long lease. Many students and professionals first choose short-term accommodation in Canada while they explore cities, finalize paperwork, or wait for a permanent rental.

Best Short-Term Housing Options for Newcomers

Type	What It Offers	Best Suited For
Airbnb	Fully furnished, flexible duration, no lease hassle	Families, professionals, couples
Homestays	Room with a local family, meals included	Students, language learners
Hostels	Budget-friendly, shared kitchens and laundry	Solo travelers, young students
Furnished Sublets	Temporary leases, often via Facebook or Kijiji	Interns, newcomers still job hunting
University Residences	Pre-semester stays, sometimes available for short terms	International students during arrival gap

Short-term accommodation in Canada helps you settle first—then pick the right long-term place without rushing.

Want to understand how education works in Canada? This Education System in Canada post explains the structure of degrees and grading.

Still deciding if Canada is the right fit for you? This blog on Why Study in Canada highlights lifestyle, academic quality, and job prospects.

How upGrad Abroad Helps You Find Accommodation in Canada

upGrad Abroad supports with accommodation in Canada for students and professionals by offering relocation tools, housing resources, and personalized guidance. Through its partnership with Casita, students can access verified, student-only housing near major Canadian universities.

You’ll also find:

• A cost calculator to estimate rent, transport, and living expenses
• City-specific housing insights tailored to Indian students
• Step-by-step relocation guides to help you plan with confidence

Need help finding the right university, course, or city for your budget? Book a free counseling session and get expert advice.

Also, explore free courses to build your skills while planning your move to Canada.