Cheapest Accommodation in Toronto
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It is known to all that Toronto is among the more expensive Canadian cities. Monthly rent in Toronto depends on the type of accommodation and location you choose. University residences and dedicated student housing tend to be costlier but come with convenient amenities.
Moving to Toronto for higher studies is both exciting and overwhelming for Indian students. It is true when stepping outside for studies, getting secure and comfortable housing is one of the biggest concerns. Here, you’re managing your finances for the first time without your mummy and papa, so it is a challenging task.
Toronto is one of Canada's leading student cities where you will get several accommodation options to choose from. Yes, you will need information to choose an affordable, secure and a comfortable space. This guide will help you understand the best student accommodation in Toronto, rental costs, popular neighbourhoods, and steps to rent with confidence.
- Types of Student Accommodation in Toronto
- What Are the Rental Prices in Toronto?
- Best Student Accommodation in Toronto
- Best Areas for Students in Toronto
- How to Apply for Student Accommodation in Toronto
- Cost of Living in Toronto
Types of Student Accommodation in Toronto
If you’re an Indian student moving to Toronto, having a fixed address is important. It will not only help you with university registration but also with visa processes. In this city, you can find university residences (If applied early), purpose-built student housing (PBSA), shared apartments (to save money), and homestays too.
Here are the four main types of student housing options available in Toronto, with details about who they are best suited for:
| Housing Option |
What It’s Like |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
| University Residences |
|
Students who came to study in Canada and looking for convenience, campus life, and a social atmosphere |
| Purpose-Built Student Housing (PBSA) |
|
Students seeking comfort and community in a ready-to-move space |
| Shared Apartments |
|
Tight budget students, wanting independence and social connections |
| Homestays |
|
New students who want support and a home-like environment |
What Are the Rental Prices in Toronto?
It is known to all that Toronto is among the more expensive Canadian cities. Monthly rent in Toronto depends on the type of accommodation and location you choose. University residences and dedicated student housing tend to be costlier but come with convenient amenities. Shared apartments and homestays are some of the cheapest accommodations in Toronto. Have a look at rent comparison
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| Accommodation Type |
Monthly Rent (CAD) |
Monthly Rent (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| University Residences |
900 to 1,600 |
INR 55,000 to INR 1,00,000 |
| PBSAs |
1,100 to 1,800 |
INR 65,000 to INR 1,10,000 |
| Shared Apartments |
700 to 1,200 |
INR 43,000 to INR 75,000 |
| Homestays |
800 to 1,200 |
INR 50,000 to INR 75,000 |
| Hostels/Temporary Stays |
400 to 800 |
INR 25,000 to INR 50,000 |
Note: INR 1 CAD is approximately INR 62.
Best Student Accommodation in Toronto
Toronto offers a diverse selection of neighbourhoods and housing styles that fits the needs of students within their budget.
| Accommodation Option |
Areas Popular Among Students |
What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| University Residences |
On or near campus (UofT St. George, Ryerson) |
|
| PBSAs |
Downtown, suburbs (The Annex, North York) |
|
| Shared Apartments |
Near universities and affordable suburbs |
|
| Homestays |
Across Toronto suburbs |
|
| Hostels/Short-term housing |
Near transit hubs |
|
Best Areas for Students in Toronto
Choosing a suitable neighbourhood can save money and reduce commute times.
- Downtown & University Districts: Highest convenience, but expensive rents. Areas like The Annexe, Harbord Village, and Kensington Market are popular near the University of Toronto, Ryerson University, and George Brown College.
- Scarborough: Home to the University of Toronto Scarborough and Centennial College, this area offers relative affordability and diverse food options for students.
- North York: This location is near York University and Seneca College. You may get the cheapest accommodation in Toronto here with good subway connectivity.
- Etobicoke & East York: Slightly suburban with lower rent accommodations but still connected by public transit.
How to Apply for Student Accommodation in Toronto
You are coming here for the first time to study in Canada, and then the rental process in Toronto can feel confusing. Here’s how to make it smooth:
- Start Early: Start your search at least 3 to 4 months before your course begins. You get a good discount or a room according to your needs.
- Prepare Documents: University admission letter, passport, proof of funds (GIC), and references.
- Connect with University Housing Department: Reach out to university housing offices and look at trusted portals. Some of them are Places4Students and Kijiji
- No Payment Until You See the Room: Visit or request virtual tours of potential homes before paying any fees. Avoid scams by never sending money before signing a contract or inspecting the property.
- Check Rent Agreement Point-By-Point: Read rental contracts carefully, noting rent, deposit, utilities, lease length, and house rules.
What to Look for in Your Rental Agreement
Here is the checklist that you need to see in the rent agreement of accommodation in Toronto:
- Monthly rent and payment deadlines
- Deposit amount and refund policy
- Lease duration and renewal terms
- Included utilities and internet access
- Policies on guests, pets, and maintenance
- Monthly Living Expenses for Students in Toronto
Cost of Living in Toronto
As mentioned earlier, Toronto is an expensive city in Canada. You need to keep a decent amount to cover the cost of living here. Alongside rent, here’s what else you’ll spend monthly as a student. Check the detailed living expenses in Toronto for students:
| Expense Category |
Estimated Cost (CAD) |
Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared or dorm) |
700 to 1,600 |
INR 44,000 to INR 1,00,000 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, heating) |
80 to 150 |
INR 5,000 to INR 9,000 |
| Internet |
30 to 50 |
INR 2,000 to INR 3,000 |
| Groceries |
250 to 400 |
INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 |
| Public Transport (TTC pass) |
128 |
INR 8,000 |
| Miscellaneous |
50 to 150 |
INR 3,000 to INR 9,000 |
Studying in universities or colleges of Toronto brings amazing opportunities but can also be costly for any international students. However, with careful planning and early research, you can find a safe, affordable place to live and focus on your higher studies. Take the help of university support services and other student communities to ease your transition.
Have queries or want suggestions? Feel free to contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.
International students must meet the general undergraduate admission requirements to study at Prince Edward Island. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 1.7 in the major subject requirements for Prince Edward Island University admission.
Read about the Canada Grading System
University of Niagara Falls tuition fees range between INR 12 Lakh – INR 19.3 lakh. The course-wise fee is given below:
Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MBA/PGDM (1 course) | INR 19 L |
MA (1 course) | INR 16 L |
MBA/PGDM (1 course) | INR 17 L |
BBA (1 course) | INR 12 L |
MIM (1 course) | INR 17 L |
BSc (1 course) | INR 18 L |
Besides the tuition fee, students have to pay the living costs too. To learn the budget of accommodation, one can explore the housing options provided by the university's housing partners. Per month, the average living cost in Niagara Falls is around CAD 2,500 (Around INR 1.6 lakh) for one person.
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Vancouver Community College is a premier and one of the oldest community colleges in Canada. VCC does not officially publish data on the acceptance rate. However as per some unofficial sources, Vancouver Community College acceptance rate ranges between 50% - 75%. VCC is one of the most sought-after and popular college among international students. Please note, that the data on acceptance rate given above is taken from an unofficial source, therefore, it is subject to vary.