Canada is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students, with over 807,000 international students enrolled in 2022 alone. Its reputation for high-quality education, diverse culture, and safe environment attracts students from all over the world. However, with this influx comes the challenge of finding suitable accommodation that meets your budget and lifestyle needs.
In Canada, students can choose from various housing options, including university dormitories, private apartments, and homestays. Each option has pros and cons, depending on your preferences and financial constraints. To make your search easier, we’ve identified some of the most reliable platforms specifically designed for students in Canada, the cost of renting in major Canadian cities, and tips on how to get accommodation that matches your needs. Ready? Let’s get started.
Contents
Types of Student Accommodation in Canada
The common types of accommodations you can get in Canada as an international student include the following:
1. On-Campus Housing:
These usually include the school dormitories managed by universities and located within walking distance of campus facilities.
2. Off-Campus Rentals:
Private apartments or shared housing with other students are very much available in Canada and it is the main focus of this article.
3. Homestays:
Homestay is an interesting accommodation arrangement where you get to live with a local family.
Each of these accommodation arrangements has its pros and cons and caters to different needs. To make a complete decision, you can read our article comparing each accommodation option available for international students.
Best Websites for Finding Students Accommodation in Canada.
Finding a new apartment as an international student is difficult. However, the availability of online rental platforms will reduce your stress and give you hundreds of options to choose from.
Here are the best websites for finding student accommodation in Canada:
1. Places4Students:
This platform is completely student-centric. What that means is that, unlike other platforms on this list, Places4Students is specifically designed to connect students with landlords offering off-campus housing near Canadian universities and colleges.
Key Features:
- University Partnerships: Many Canadian institutions recommend this platform, ensuring its credibility.
- Roommate Finder Tool: Helps students connect with others to share housing.
- Diverse Listings: Includes shared rooms, apartments, and houses close to campus.
2. RentCanada
RentCanada Is a large and popular rental platform with a wide range of listings across the country. For international students looking for affordable options near their universities or in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, RentCanada is just the perfect place to start.
Key Features:
- Extensive Filters: Search by price, size, and pet-friendliness.
- Interactive Map: Helps you find accommodations close to your school and public transport.
- Verified Listings: Ensures safety and reliability for renters.
3. Homestay.com
For international students seeking a home away from home, Homestay.com offers a unique opportunity to live with local families. This is a great way to experience Canadian culture while having a supportive living environment.
Key Features:
- Family Matching: Connects students with families based on preferences.
- Meals Included: Many hosts provide home-cooked meals as part of the package.
- Supportive Environment: Ideal for first-time international students adjusting to a new country.
4. Kijiji: For Budget-Friendly Rentals
Kijiji is one of Canada’s largest online marketplaces, and its housing section is a go-to for students on a tight budget. While it’s not student-specific, it offers a wide variety of rental options, from shared apartments to entire homes.
For students who need affordable off-campus housing or short-term rentals, Kijiji provides plenty of options, though caution is advised to avoid scams.
Key Features:
- Local Listings: Focused on connecting renters with landlords in specific cities and neighborhoods.
- Affordable Options: Find budget-friendly accommodations with flexible lease terms.
- Community Feel: Great for students who want to live in local neighborhoods rather than near-campus hotspots.
5. Amberstudent.com:
AmberStudent is great because it’s designed specifically for students, so you won’t have to sift through unrelated listings. It’s one of the go-to platforms for finding and booking student housing across Canada. They offer a wide range of verified options, making it easy to find something safe, comfortable, and within your budget. Plus, the whole process is super straightforward, so you can focus on settling into your new home stress-free.
Key Features:
- Verified Listings: Each property is vetted to guarantee quality and safety.
- 24/7 Support: Dedicated customer service to assist students throughout the booking process.
- Flexible Booking Options: Offers flexible stay durations to accommodate different academic schedules.
- Wide Range of Properties: From shared apartments to private studios, catering to different student needs.
A Comparison Between the Top Websites for Finding Student Accommodation in Canada
| Platform | Best For | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Places4Students | University-affiliated housing | Trusted partnerships, student-focused tools | Limited to areas near partner universities |
| RentCanada | Variety of rental options | Extensive filters, interactive map | Not student-specific, can be overwhelming |
| Homestay.com | Living with local families | Cultural immersion, meals included | Limited availability in smaller cities |
| Kijiji | Budget-friendly rentals | Affordable options, flexible leases | Higher risk of scams, no student focus |
| AmberStudent | Streamlined student bookings | Verified listings, 24/7 support | Limited property availability in smaller towns |
Cost of Rent in Canada for International Students
Renting a place in Canada as an international student can feel like a big commitment, especially when you’re juggling tuition fees and other expenses. However, understanding what to expect can make budgeting much easier. Here’s a guide to help you navigate rental costs across Canada.
Average Rent by City
The city you choose to live in plays a huge role in how much you’ll pay for rent. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect in some of Canada’s popular student hubs:
| City | One-Bedroom Apartment (Monthly) | Shared Housing (Per Person, Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | CAD 1,800 – CAD 2,500 | CAD 700 – CAD 1,200 |
| Vancouver | CAD 1,900 – CAD 2,800 | CAD 800 – CAD 1,200 |
| Montreal | CAD 1,000 – CAD 1,500 | CAD 500 – CAD 800 |
| Calgary | CAD 1,000 – CAD 1,300 | CAD 400 – CAD 700 |
| Edmonton | CAD 1,000 – CAD 1,300 | CAD 400 – CAD 700 |
| Halifax | CAD 800 – CAD 1,200 | CAD 400 – CAD 700 |
| Winnipeg | CAD 800 – CAD 1,200 | CAD 400 – CAD 700 |
Factors Affecting Rent Costs
A few key factors influence how much rent you’ll pay:
- Proximity to Campus: Apartments closer to universities often come with a higher price tag because of convenience.
- City Size and Popularity: Big cities like Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive compared to smaller cities like Winnipeg or Halifax.
- Furnished or Unfurnished: Furnished rentals save you from buying furniture but are usually pricier.
- Utilities Included: Some landlords bundle utilities (like water, electricity, and internet) into the rent, while others don’t.
- Time of Year: The start of the school year (August and September) usually sees higher demand and rental prices.
Tips for Securing Housing in Canada
- Leverage Student Community Boards: Many universities have online community boards or social media groups where students post housing opportunities. These platforms often include off-campus rental listings, roommate requests, and even sublet options. Check your university’s official website or join related Facebook groups.
- Explore Co-Living Spaces: Co-living arrangements are becoming increasingly popular among students. These are shared living spaces designed for affordability and community living, often with utilities and common areas included in the rent. Companies like Common or StudentOne cater specifically to young professionals and students.
- Use University Housing Offices: Most universities in Canada offer resources to help students find housing. They may maintain a list of landlords and property managers who are vetted and reliable.
- Network with Other Students: Connect with fellow international students or join student associations. They can provide recommendations or share their experiences about where to find affordable housing.
- Be Flexible with Lease Terms: If you’re arriving during off-peak times (e.g., January), you may find better deals on rentals. Some landlords offer discounts for longer lease commitments.
- Negotiate Utility Inclusion: Some landlords allow you to negotiate rent to include utilities like internet, heating, or water. This can help simplify monthly budgeting.
- Consider Sublets: Subletting from another student who’s away for a semester can be a cost-effective way to find temporary housing. Be sure to get a sublease agreement in writing.
Settling Into Your New Home
Finding the right student accommodation in Canada can enhance your overall experience as a student. Whether you choose a bustling city like Toronto or a smaller, picturesque town like Halifax, ensure that your housing aligns with your academic goals and lifestyle.
Use these platforms to simplify your search and secure a place that feels just right for you. With the right planning and resources, you’ll settle into your new home in no time.