Accommodation in Canada for Students and Expats: City-Wise Cost Breakdown

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:

– Browse Diploma Courses in Canada for quick and career-ready options.

– Interested in management fields? Explore Project Management Courses in Canada and Business Management Courses in Canada.

Average Accommodation Costs in Canada

Group	Average Monthly Rent
Students (Shared Rooms, Dorms, Studios)	CAD 600–1,200 (₹37,000–₹74,000)
Working Professionals (Studio or 1BHK)	CAD 1,200–2,200 (₹73,000–₹1.35 lakh)
Families (2–3BHK Apartments, Townhouses)	CAD 1,800–3,500 (₹1.1 lakh–₹2.14 lakh)

Understand the expenses better with this full guide on Cost of Living in Canada.

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.

Need help with funding? Here’s how to find a Canada Scholarship for Indian Students.

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.
• Montreal: Affordable housing, strong startup culture.
• 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.

Applying soon? Check the Student Visa Process for Canada and document checklist.

Planning to stay longer? This guide on How to Apply for Canada PR After Study walks you through the next steps.

Family Accommodation in Canada: Best Options

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.

Planning your budget post-study? Here’s the latest data on Average Salary in Canada.

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.