#1 in Canada for payment processing

Average Rent in Canada: Latest 2025 Data and City Comparisons

Trusted by over 1M+ users every year
users
$1B+
Payments processed annually
blog-hero
hero-banner

As of 2025, Canada’s average rent sits at $2,100 per month, with notable regional differences driven by local demand, supply, and economic trends. Canadian renters are seeing short-term relief as national rent prices decline after several years of sharp increases, but affordability remains a pressing concern, especially in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Introduction

Canada’s rental market in 2025 is at the center of national attention, as housing affordability continues to be a pressing issue for both tenants and policymakers. With demand for rentals rising due to population growth, immigration, and shifting lifestyle choices, rental prices have surged in many urban centers while remaining more stable in smaller cities. According to recent 2025 data from Rentals.ca, the average asking rent across Canada now exceeds $2,200 per month, marking one of the highest year-over-year increases in recent history.

For renters, this trend means budgeting challenges and tough competition in high-demand markets like Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa. For landlords and investors, it highlights strong demand but also growing regulatory scrutiny. This article breaks down the latest rental averages city by city, compares affordability across regions, and examines what’s driving these changes in 2025.

In mid-2025, the national average rent in Canada is $2,100 for all housing types, down 4.4% from last year’s high, marking an 18-month low and signaling a shifting rental landscape. Rents for one-bedroom apartments typically range from $1,520 to $2,200, while two-bedroom units span $1,900 to $3,200, depending on the city and province. This recent decline reflects a nationwide trend toward increased supply and slower population growth, introducing more negotiating power for tenants and modest rental incentives from landlords.

Why Tracking Average Rent Matters in 2025

Understanding the latest rental price trends is essential for both tenants and landlords. For renters, keeping track of average rent in Canada provides a benchmark for what to expect when searching for a home, negotiating lease renewals, or budgeting monthly expenses. For landlords and property managers, it helps align rental pricing with market realities while ensuring competitiveness and compliance with provincial rent regulations.

Rising rent costs also have broader economic implications. They influence household disposable income, shape urban migration patterns, and directly impact the affordability crisis that policymakers are trying to address through new housing supply initiatives. In 2025, staying informed about these trends is no longer optional—it’s critical for making smarter financial and housing decisions.

Average Rent by Province and Major Cities (2025)

  • Toronto, ON: $2,587 (1-BR), $2,690 (2-BR), showing a 4.7% decrease year-over-year. It's a 30-month low with incentives now being offered.
  • Vancouver, BC: $2,896 (1-BR), $3,170 (2-BR), down 13% from its peak. Still the priciest city, but the trend is cooling.
  • Ottawa, ON: $2,100 (1-BR), $2,490 (2-BR), with more stable rental rates.
  • Montreal, QC: $1,500 (1-BR), $1,930 (2-BR). Growth is slow at 1-2%, making it still quite affordable.
  • Calgary, AB: $1,690 (1-BR), $1,900 (2-BR), with a 2-8% decrease thanks to more purpose-built supply.
  • Sarnia, ON: $1,659 (1-BR), $1,800 (2-BR). Rates are flat, placing it among Ontario’s lowest.
  • Richmond Hill, ON: $2,565 (1-BR), $2,680 (2-BR). This area remains high, well above the provincial average.
  • Drummondville, QC: $1,200 (1-BR), $1,400 (2-BR). One of Canada’s cheapest and most stable markets.
  • Sherbrooke, QC: $1,250 (1-BR), $1,420 (2-BR). Another low-cost region with flat rental rates.

It's clear that secondary markets like Sarnia, Windsor, and Drummondville offer much lower rental costs than the core urban centers.

Monthly Rent Cost Canada: Unit Types

  • Studio/Shared Room: $900–$1,200, especially popular in roommate situations.
  • One-Bedroom Apartment: $1,520–$2,200, with major variations depending on the city.
  • Two-Bedroom Apartment: $1,900–$3,200, with the highest prices found in Vancouver, Toronto, Victoria, and Ottawa.

Toronto Rental Market Review: Trends and Affordability

Toronto’s rental scene continues to be one of Canada's most expensive and fast-paced. The average Toronto apartment rent hit a 30-month low in early 2025, landing at $2,587 for one-bedrooms and $2,690 for two-bedrooms. This represents a 4.7% year-over-year drop. This cooling is a result of a surge in new construction and more listings hitting the market. Consequently, vacancies are up, and landlords are offering incentives like free rent or moving allowances to attract tenants.

Toronto continues to rank as one of the most expensive rental markets in Canada in 2025. According to the latest data from Rentals.ca, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto has surpassed $2,600 per month, while two-bedroom units are averaging well over $3,300. This places Toronto firmly at the top of the affordability debate, with rents consuming far more than the recommended 30% of household income for many residents.

Key Trends Driving Toronto’s Rental Prices:

  • High Demand, Limited Supply – Toronto’s population continues to grow, driven by immigration, job opportunities, and a thriving student population. Yet new rental construction has not kept pace with demand.
  • Urban Lifestyle Appeal – The city’s vibrant culture, employment opportunities, and transit network keep demand high for centrally located rentals.
  • Government Policies and Rent Controls – Ontario’s rent control policies apply to older units but not to newer builds, creating a split market where newer listings can see sharper increases.
  • Competition with Homeownership Costs – With mortgage rates elevated, many would-be buyers remain in the rental market, further intensifying demand.

Affordability Challenges in Toronto

For the average household, Toronto’s rent prices far exceed affordability thresholds. Recent surveys indicate that over 40% of renters in Toronto are in “core housing need”, meaning their housing costs are too high relative to income or the housing itself does not meet adequacy and suitability standards. Young professionals and families are particularly affected, often turning to shared accommodations or moving to suburbs like Mississauga, Brampton, or Scarborough for slightly lower costs.

Pros and Cons of Renting in Toronto

Renting in Toronto comes with a unique set of advantages and challenges. For many, the city offers unparalleled access to career opportunities, cultural experiences, and lifestyle perks. However, these benefits come at a steep price, making Toronto both a dream and a struggle for renters.

Pros of Renting in Toronto

  • Access to high-quality amenities and services
    Toronto is home to world-class hospitals, universities, and cultural institutions. Renters enjoy easy access to public transit, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, all of which contribute to a vibrant urban lifestyle.
  • Shorter commutes to downtown jobs and entertainment
    Living in the core of the city can save significant commuting time, reducing stress and improving work-life balance. Many renters choose downtown neighborhoods specifically to be closer to their workplaces and the entertainment districts.
  • A wide variety of rental options
    From high-rise condos with modern amenities to historic walk-ups and purpose-built apartments, Toronto’s rental market offers diverse options to match different preferences and budgets (though often still above national averages).

Cons of Renting in Toronto

  • The highest rental costs in the country
    Toronto consistently ranks at or near the top of Canadian cities for rental prices. With one-bedroom units averaging over $2,600 in 2025, affordability remains the biggest drawback for most renters.
  • Intense competition for prime locations
    Desirable neighborhoods such as the Financial District, Liberty Village, or Yorkville often see multiple applicants competing for the same unit. This competition drives up prices further and forces renters to make quick decisions.
  • Income growth not keeping pace with rent increases
    Wages in Toronto have not risen at the same rate as housing costs. This growing affordability gap has left many renters spending well over 30% of their income on housing, pushing them into financial stress or forcing moves to suburban areas.

In short, Toronto offers unmatched opportunities and conveniences, but renters pay a premium for the privilege. The city is best suited for those who value proximity and lifestyle, and who have the financial means to absorb higher housing costs.

Rental Price Comparisons: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, & More

When comparing major cities, the differences are stark:

  • Toronto: 1-BR at $2,587, 2-BR at $2,690, Studio at $2,050. Prices have seen a slight year-over-year decrease.
  • Vancouver: 1-BR at $2,896, 2-BR at $3,170, Studio at $2,100. It's the priciest city, though rents are finally dropping.
  • Montreal: 1-BR at $1,500, 2-BR at $1,930, Studio at $1,200. It stands out as the most affordable large city.
  • Ottawa: 1-BR at $2,100, 2-BR at $2,490, Studio at $1,700. It's about average among the big cities.
  • Calgary: 1-BR at $1,690, 2-BR at $1,900, Studio at $1,350. An increase in purpose-built supply is helping to stabilize prices.

Toronto vs. Vancouver Rent Prices: Vancouver consistently edges out Toronto as slightly more expensive for both one- and two-bedroom units. Both cities, however, are significantly above the national average.

Rent Affordability Toronto vs. Montreal: Montreal provides the best affordability among Canada's major cities, with rents almost $1,000 less than Toronto for similar apartments.

Canada Rental Trends 2025: Market Cooling & Causes

The average cost of rent in Canada is finally easing after years of sharp increases. National asking rents have declined by 3-5% year-over-year, and this is happening for a few key reasons:

  • Rising supply: More rental units are being completed and listed, especially in big cities and the Greater Toronto Area.
  • Slower population growth: Tighter immigration rules have reduced immediate rental demand.
  • Economic uncertainty: Tenants are negotiating more, and landlords are responding with incentives or lower prices.

Rental Prices by Province: 2025 Overview

Here’s how the provinces stack up in terms of average monthly rent for all property types:

  • Ontario: $2,335, with a declining market direction in cities like Toronto and Ottawa.
  • British Columbia: $2,462, also declining in Vancouver and Victoria.
  • Alberta: $1,745, with a slight decline in Calgary and Edmonton.
  • Quebec: $1,964, showing a slight increase in Montreal and Quebec City.
  • Nova Scotia: $1,700, with a cooling market in Halifax.
  • Saskatchewan: $1,300, remaining stable in Regina and Saskatoon.

Key Factors Affecting Rent Prices in Canada

  • Supply and demand: New construction and immigration policies are major drivers.
  • Economic growth: Wage growth affects affordability but often lags behind rent hikes.
  • Rent control regulations: In provinces like Ontario and Quebec, these rules help stabilize rent for existing tenants but don't apply to "asking rents" on new leases.

Conclusion: Navigating Rent in Canada in 2025

2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for Canadian renters. Although the average rent in Canada has cooled from its historic peaks and incentives are becoming more common, the differences between regions are still huge. Whether you're considering cosmopolitan Toronto or affordable Drummondville, understanding the local market data and using modern digital tools is key to finding a rental that fits both your budget and your lifestyle.

What is the average rent in Canada?

The average rent in Canada is $2,100 per month for all property types in 2025, but this varies significantly depending on the city and province.

How much is rent in Canada on average?

On average, rent in Canada for one-bedroom apartments is between $1,520 and $2,200. For two-bedroom apartments, it ranges from $1,900 to $3,200, based on location.

What is the average rent in Toronto?

Toronto’s average rent is about $2,587 for a one-bedroom and $2,690 for a two-bedroom apartment, which is a slight decrease from 2024.

Why are rental prices changing in Toronto?

Rental prices in Toronto initially rose due to high demand and limited supply. However, recent increases in new housing supply and economic shifts have caused prices to decline in 2025.

How does average rent in Canada compare to other countries?

Canada’s average rent in its top cities is comparable to major hubs in the U.S. and Europe. However, many smaller Canadian cities are much more affordable.

Can rent prices in Canada go down?

Yes, rent prices have decreased in many areas in 2025. This is due to an increase in supply, a slowdown in demand, and general economic uncertainty.

Is rent cheaper in Toronto or Vancouver?

Vancouver is generally more expensive. Average rents there are about $200 higher than in Toronto for similar types of units.

What factors affect rent prices in Canada?

Rent prices are influenced by supply and demand, local economic trends, housing policies, and the strength of rent control regulations.

Where is rent cheapest in Canada?

Drummondville and Sherbrooke in Quebec, along with smaller cities in Ontario and Alberta, consistently offer Canada’s lowest rental prices.

How do I find affordable apartments in Canada?

To find affordable apartments, look for listings in secondary cities or outer suburbs, use digital platforms like TenantPay, and keep an eye out for purpose-built rentals or units with vacancy incentives.

Contact us!
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.