Finding accommodation as an international student in Canada can be overwhelming. Before applying to universities here, you may be worried about finding a place to live, despite knowing many Indians have already made Canada their home, all because of the country’s PR-friendly norms.
Fortunately, Canada offers various options: on-campus housing (costing between CAD 6,000 and CAD 16,000 annually) and off-campus housing (ranging from CAD 500 to CAD 2,000 per month). You may find it helpful to visit the international student office or check your university's website for housing resources.
How Much is Rent for International Students in Canada
Canada is a large country, so the housing rent here varies widely with the city. For international students who want to study abroad, there are both furnished and unfurnished housing spaces available. The rent for these accommodations can range between CAD 1,190.06- CAD 5,091.40 per month, depending on the luxury and area of the accommodation space you are choosing.
Where Can I Find Rental Listings for Students in Canada
Various sites and online platforms are available that provide free assistance to students, with a 100% guarantee of providing the cheapest accommodation to international students. This support is available 24/7 and is highly beneficial; it can be availed by booking an executive on its site.
Students Accommodation in Canada Based on Cities
The cost and quality of student accommodation in Canada can differ from city to city. Here is a list of the average cost of accommodation in various cities in Canada for students.
City
Cost of Accommodation
Toronto
CAD 2,493
Vancouver
CAD 2,790
Kitchener
CAD 2,006
Winnipeg
CAD 1,237
Windsor
CAD 1,675
Thunder Bay
CAD 1,325
Lethbridge
CAD 1,233
Victoria
CAD 2,154
Source:Numbeo,the above data is for single bedroom
Types of Accommodation in Canada for International Students
Accommodation options for international students in Canada are divided into two main types based on their location and management:
1. On-Campus Accommodations:
Managed by Universities or Colleges: These accommodations are provided and overseen by the educational institution, typically situated within or very close to the campus.
Types of Housing: They often consist of dormitories (also known as residence halls) where students have their own rooms but share common facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and sometimes common rooms.
Advantages:
Convenient access to campus facilities like libraries, classrooms, and student services.
Integration into campus life, making it easier to participate in university activities and events.
Amenities may include meal plans, internet access, and study areas.
2. Off-Campus Accommodations:
Independent Housing Options: These accommodations are not managed by the university or college and require students to find housing on their own.
Types of Housing: Options include renting apartments, shared houses, or staying with host families (homestays).
Characteristics:
Provides flexibility in choosing housing based on personal preferences and budget.
Involves independent research and planning to secure suitable accommodation.
Can offer a more private and possibly quieter living environment compared to on-campus options.
Choosing between on-campus and off-campus accommodation depends on factors such as personal preferences, budget, proximity to campus, and desired level of independence. Both options have their own advantages and considerations, impacting the overall student experience in Canada.
Living On Campus
International students living in Canada can find various options for living on campus in their universities or colleges. Dormitories, Condominiums, and residence rooms can be an affordable consideration to choose for living in Canada as an international student.
Dormitories or Condominiums
Various universities and colleges in Canada offer international students the option to live in dormitories or condominiums at affordable rates. Here is a price list of various universities that offer dormitories and condominium accommodation in Canada for international students.
In Canada, there are mainly two types of residence rooms offered. This includes either a single or a shared room. Renting a shared room will cost much less than a single occupancy. Additionally, the residence rooms in Canada also come with various benefits.
Benefits of Residence Room
Renting a residence room in Canada comes with a lot of various benefits, these include:
Your own private room or shared with only one occupant.
Access to campus anytime
No need to bear transportation costs
Laundry
Wifi Availability
Kitchen
Shared Bathroom
With all these perks, residence rooms qualify to be a good option to be considered when looking for accommodation in Canada for international students.
Townhouses
In Canada, another potential living option is townhouses. These are houses that share walls with neighbors on each side and outdoor spaces like backyard,or a rooftop might not be available.
However, this does not mean that one’s privacy is compromised in any manner. As an international student, townhouses are a great option to consider when looking for budget-friendly accommodation.
Living Off-Campus in Private Housing
If you do not wish to acquire the accommodation facilities recommended by your college or university, there are various other private housing options available. These include accommodations such as apartments, homestays, etc.
However, staying in private housing in Canada can be costlier than seeking accommodation at your university or college.
Shared Apartments (Off-Campus)
Renting an apartment off campus can be a good staying option as there are a lot of apartments available for rent near universities and colleges in Canada as it is cost-effective and beneficial for an international student.
Benefits of Living in Shared Apartments
Here are some benefits of renting a shared apartment in Canada:
Furnished Apartments are often available that save the cost of renting furniture.
More freedom as compared to college and university accommodation.
Socializing into Canadian Society.
Homestay
For students, homestays can be quite a convenient living option. Living in homestays not only culturally enriches your experience but also gives you opportunities to learn about Canada closely. Homestay involves living with a Canadian family while paying rent to them as a tenant.
Benefits of Living in Homestay
Here are the benefits involved in living in a homestay in Canada:
A safe option to consider as an international student.
A feeling of home away from home.
Closely learning about Canadian culture.
Meal availability.
Apartment on Rent
Renting an entire apartment in Canada can be one of the most luxurious renting options.
This is because renting an entire apartment can be quite expensive, however, it comes packed with a lot of benefits.
Benefits of Living in an Apartment on Rent
Here are the benefits of renting an apartment in Canada:
Freely explore Canadian cities anytime you want.
No restrictions on in and out time.
Laundry services are often available.
Basic amenities like furniture and appliances are provided.
How to Find Accommodation in Canada for International Students
Finding accommodation in Canada before arriving can be a challenging task if you have no local support. Many companies offer to help find accommodation in advance. We've talked about the different types of housing in Canada. Some houses are rented out as a whole, while others are divided into smaller units.. Here are a few points to know how to find accommodation in Canada for students.
Inquire about the facilities: Before you decide on getting accommodation on rent, you must inquire about the facilities of your accommodation provider. The facilities should include amenities like hot water, television, internet, etc.
Being sure about the meals: If you are planning to stay within the campus and opting for the meal plan, you must know about the meals. You have to pay in advance.
Special services for students with disabilities: If you have some kind of disability and need special services, you must inform the college or university about it as there are places built in accordance with the people with special needs.
Arriving early to the campus may help: The earlier you arrive at the campus, the more time you will get to be acquainted with campus life. Also, most universities follow a first come, first served policy, so it is best to arrive and get yourself an accommodation before it fills out.
Finding accommodation for an international student in Canada can be difficult but not impossible. However, doing a little bit of research before deciding can be helpful.
Cost of Student Accommodation in Canada (For 2024)
As far as the cost of student accommodation in Canada is concerned; an on-campus accommodation with meals for eight months can cost you CAD 6,000 to CAD 16,000. However, the cost depends on the university.
If you are living in an off-campus accommodation in Canada, especially in a homestay, it will cost you around CAD 500 to CAD 2,000 per month. It depends upon the size and location of the accommodation.
Housing Terms in Canada
When looking for accommodation in Canada for international students, you must remain updated about some common housing terminologies. Knowing these terminologies will help you understand the features and accommodation rules with ease.
Here are some common housing terminologies that you must remain aware of.
Appliances: Appliances in housing terms include stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher.
Bedroom: Bedrooms describe the number of bedrooms available apart from the living room and kitchen.
Basement: Basement refers to the place below the main floor.
Cable: Cable includes channels for your television. The cost of it might be included in the rent or is to be paid separately.
Drapes: Drapes refer to curtains in a living space.
Female Occupancy: Informs that the housing space is only available for female tenants.
Fridge and Stove: No appliances other than fridge and stove are available. Offen is referred to with the f&s symbol.
Electricity: Referred by the term “hydro”.
Gas: Refers to natural gas availability for cooking.
Garden Level: Referred to by “gdn lvl” it means a basement suite above the ground.
Male Occupancy: Informs that the housing space is only available for male tenants.
Restrictions: Restrictions are of various types and are referred to using n/p (no pets), n/s (no smoking), and n/d (non-drinker).
Signing Lease & Paying Damage Deposit
When you rent private housing in Canada, you are required to sign an agreement with the owner of the property. The agreement grants you the right to occupy the rental space in exchange for the rent that you will be paying to the property owner.
You are also required to pay the security deposit before gaining accommodation on the property. The security deposit or the damage deposit must not be more than the rent of one month of the property.
Ensure that you inspect the space well before paying the damage deposit to look for already damaged spots. Your damage deposit will be used by the landlord to pay the rent for the last month of your rental agreement in case there is no damage done to the property by you.
How to Find Private Housing
In Canada, you can find private housing in a couple of ways. Here are a few common ways that can help you find private housing in Canada.
As an international student in Canada, you can find a housing space with the help of your university or college housing office. Such offices are specifically dedicated to finding housing spaces for students.
You can also get some good housing recommendations through the student union at your college or university.
Big property owners near universities and colleges in Canada are likely to rent out housing spaces for students.
Apartments near college campuses are also known to rent housing spaces to international students.
Costs for Private Housing
Private housing is a part of off-campus living in Canada. Your university or college is not concerned with your private housing space in any manner. However, private housing differs widely as compared to living on campus.
The cost for private housing in Canada can be around CAD 400 to CAD 800 for a single room. This is undoubtedly a bit higher as compared to other living means. Additionally, you might also have to pay for your food if the option for adding it with your homeowner is not available.
The cost of private housing will also vary based on the city you are living in. Living in a high-rise apartment can cost around CAD 900 to CAD 2000 per month, whereas in cities like Toronto, and Vancouver, this rent can go as high as CAD 3,000 per month.
What are the Rental Rights in Canada
As a tenant in Canada, the law of the state grants you some rental rights which you must be aware of when finding accommodation in the country.
Landlords cannot question your ethnic background, religion, and sexual preferences.
You do not need to disclose your marital status.
No questions about your family visiting can be asked.
The landlord strictly prohibits your family plans.
Landlords are also not allowed to ask for your Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Dealing With Your Landlord
When you rent a housing space in Canada, ensure to deal with your landlord wisely and try not to indulge in any unnecessary conflicts. As a tenant, there are certain things that you must keep in check.
Ensure to pay your rent on time.
Do not damage the rental property in any way.
Keep your landlord informed about any repairs that might be needed on the property.
Ensure that you pay for any damage that you cause.
In case of any conflicts with your landlord, be sure to seek legal advice to get the best solution to the problem. You can request low-cost or free legal advice at the housing office of your college or university.
Disclaimer: All accommodation costs and cost of living are approximate amounts subject to change depending on various conditions.
Is it mandatory for international students to live on-campus?
It is not mandatory for international students to live on-campus. Students can choose an accommodation as per their choice.
Where can I find short-term furnished rentals?
You can find many short-term rentals online through websites such as Airbnb, Vrbo, Sublet.com, and Kijiji. Read the reviews before selecting an option.
How to find homestays online?
To choose the right homestay easily, you can go through a homestays network such as Canada Homestay network, YES Canada Homestay, and HomeStay In, which are selective about choosing the right homestay based on safety and comfort.
What is the cost of accommodation for International students in Canada?
Living off-campus in Canada will cost you around CAD500 to 2000 whereas living on-campus will cost you a CAD 6,000-CAD 16,000.
Where do students stay in Canada?
Students can stay in dormitories, condominiums, shared apartments, on-campus residences and more.
How do international students find accommodation in Canada?
You can find accommodation online via different rental sites such as Rentals.ca, Padmapper, Facebook Marketplace, on Craiglist and many other sites. Also, connect with landlords personally to find apartments and check newspaper columns to find a house on rent.
Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!
Tanya is a skilled content writer and marketing strategist with deep expertise in the EdTech industry. She has a proven track record of producing engaging content and developing effective marketing strategies for leading platforms. At upGrad Abroad, Tanya focuses on providing study-abroad aspirants with accurate and relevant information, significantly contributing to the growth of educational technology.
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