Accommodation in Toronto

Accommodation in Toronto consists of properties of every shape and size, and you should be able to find something to suit both your budget and needs relatively easily. Toronto’s housing market is dynamic, shaped largely by its diverse population and vibrant neighbourhoods, offering something for everyone.

Neighbourhoods in Toronto

Toronto is a lively mosaic of cultures, with each neighbourhood offering a unique story of community and migration. From the bustling streets of Little Italy to the eclectic charm of Greektown, Canada’s largest city provides a diverse mix of urban hubs and quieter retreats.

The downtown core is a dynamic blend of commercial and residential spaces, ideal for those who want to live, work, and play in the heart of the city, although housing comes at a premium. Further out, areas like Scarborough and Etobicoke offer more affordable options without sacrificing access to amenities.

Family-friendly neighbourhoods such as Bedford Park and North Toronto boast excellent schools and green spaces, while artsy enclaves like The Annex and exclusive areas like Forest Hill cater to a range of lifestyles. For waterfront living, Harbourfront and The Beaches combine scenic beauty with urban convenience, while emerging neighbourhoods like King West Village and Junction Triangle offer trendy, modern vibes.

While Toronto is generally safe, some areas require careful consideration. Jane and Finch, Regent Park, and Flemingdon Park, for instance, face challenges such as higher crime rates and underfunded infrastructure, although revitalisation efforts are underway.

Read more about the Best (and Worst) Neighbourhoods in Toronto.

Types of accommodation in Toronto

Types of accommodation in Toronto vary greatly. Toronto is home to luxury condominiums that dot the skyline, yet also houses communities living in more modest dwellings, even in central areas. This juxtaposition means you could see multi-million-dollar condos alongside older, sometimes run-down, housing blocks.

This uneven distribution of wealth ensures something for everyone, with apartments available for people from all walks of life almost anywhere in the city. The western and northern districts have some expensive properties, but you’ll still find plenty of townhouses, high-rises, and smaller homes.

Co-living spaces are also becoming popular, especially among young professionals and students looking for affordability and a sense of community. These shared living arrangements offer an alternative to traditional rentals, particularly in neighbourhoods near universities and work hubs.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Furnished rentals in Toronto, which tend to be more prevalent downtown or in areas with many business travellers and international students, typically cost more than unfurnished. There is a growing demand for furnished rentals, particularly among transient populations, like students and professionals on short-term assignments. On the other hand, opting for an unfurnished rental can give you more flexibility.

Short lets

Short-term accommodation in Toronto has undergone changes recently. With stricter regulations, only principal residences can be used for short-term lets. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo remain popular, but you’ll also find local real estate agents to help you secure compliant short-term rentals that meet city guidelines. In addition to these platforms, local agencies have started offering short-term rental management services, providing personalised options for both hosts and guests.

The demand for short-term rentals has rebounded post-pandemic, with increased bookings driven by the resurgence of tourism and the flexibility required by remote work trends.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Vrbo
• Short-term Rental Compliance Guide

Finding accommodation in Toronto

Finding accommodation in Toronto can be made easier by taking advantage of the wide range of online listings available. Real estate agents can also be incredibly helpful, especially since they know the ins and outs of the market and can guide you through the leasing and negotiation process. Many real estate agents have listings on their company websites. It’s worth noting that landlords are responsible for the agent’s commission, so you won’t incur any additional fees for their help.

New platforms like liv.rent, Rentals.ca, Zumper, RentCafe, and PadMapper have also made a splash in Toronto. These tools offer features like digital contracts, virtual tours, and secure payments – perfect if you’re tech-savvy and want a smooth renting experience.

If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, consider using a mix of property portals, real estate agent listings, and even social media to find your perfect spot.

Useful links

• Realtor.ca
• Zillow
• Trulia
• Rentals.ca

Renting accommodation in Toronto

Renting accommodation in Toronto involves a few steps once you’ve found a property that fits your needs. You’ll need to review and sign the lease, which can be negotiated with the landlord. Be aware that most leases require two months’ notice if you decide to move out.

Making an application

When applying for a rental property, it’s best to have your documents ready, such as proof of income, references, and ID. Being prepared will speed up the process and make you more attractive to landlords in what can be a competitive market.

Competition is fierce in Toronto, with low vacancy rates and high demand. You might need to act quickly once you find a property you like, so make sure you have everything ready to go – credit checks, references, and even a letter from your employer can make all the difference.

Leases, costs and fees

Lease agreements usually cover a term of 12 months, and they also outline forfeiture conditions for any breach of contract. You’ll need to pay a deposit – usually two months’ rent – which is refundable, provided there are no damages or breaches. Conduct a thorough inventory when moving in and document any pre-existing damages to avoid disputes when you move out.

Landlord-tenant relations in Toronto have evolved, partly due to regulatory reforms and market dynamics. The Ontario government has strengthened tenant protections to prevent unlawful evictions and address maintenance issues. But as the rental market rebounds, landlords are regaining leverage, which influences rent negotiations and lease agreements.

Additional fees may include a refundable key deposit, move-in/move-out fees for condominiums, and utility setup costs. It’s essential to clarify these with your landlord to avoid surprises.

Terminating the lease

Terminating your lease early can be complicated, so it’s important to understand the terms and any penalties involved. Giving sufficient notice – typically two months – is required, and it’s wise to communicate openly with your landlord if you’re considering leaving before your lease ends.

Rent increases are regulated by the province. Generally, landlords can only increase rent once every 12 months, with a 90-day notice. Recent legislative updates have also clarified conditions for early lease termination, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or health concerns, giving tenants more options for exiting a lease without significant penalties.

Useful links

• Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board
• Residential Tenancies Act Summary
• Tenant Rights Advocacy Services

Utilities in Toronto

Utilities in Toronto can add to your monthly expenses, so it’s important to understand what’s included and what you’ll need to pay separately. Typically, you’ll be responsible for gas and electricity, while water is often included in the rent. Make sure to double-check your lease to avoid surprises later.

Electricity and gas

Electricity and gas in Toronto are primarily provided by Toronto Hydro and Enbridge Gas. Toronto Hydro is the city’s main electricity distributor, delivering power to homes and businesses. Their rates are regulated by the Ontario Energy Board, which ensures transparency and fairness, so you won’t encounter unexpected fluctuations.

Natural gas is supplied by Enbridge Gas, which offers a variety of plans, including fixed-rate and variable-rate options.

To save on energy costs, renters can take advantage of several energy-saving programmes. The Energy Affordability Program offers free energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED light bulbs, power bars with timers, and efficiency showerheads. These upgrades can make your home more comfortable while helping to lower your utility bills.

It’s also a good idea to compare electricity plans on the  Ontario Energy Board’s website, as other retailers may offer different pricing structures than Toronto Hydro. While Toronto Hydro is the default option, alternative suppliers could offer better deals depending on your consumption patterns.

Water

Water in Toronto is usually included in rental agreements, but it’s always wise to confirm this in your lease. The City of Toronto manages the water supply, and rates are standardised across the city.

Renters are encouraged to conserve water where possible. Fixing any leaks promptly – reporting them to your landlord if necessary – can prevent wasted water and potential damage. Installing water-efficient fixtures, like low-flow showerheads, can also help you use less water without compromising comfort.

Bins and recycling

Toronto has an efficient waste management system, with regular rubbish collection and recycling services to keep the city clean. Understanding the waste collection schedule and properly sorting your waste helps to ensure that recycling and compostable materials are processed correctly, reducing your environmental footprint. The City of Toronto provides guidelines for sorting waste, which you’ll need to follow. Bins are colour-coded – green for organic waste, blue for recycling, and black for general rubbish.

To help residents comply with recycling guidelines, the City of Toronto offers the Waste Wizard Tool. This online resource helps you determine the correct disposal methods for various items. This can be especially useful for reducing contamination and ensuring proper sorting.

If you live in a multi-residential building, you can also benefit from in-unit recycling bags and organics containers provided by the city. Speak to your property manager to see if these resources are available in your building.

Internet

Internet in Toronto is provided by several major suppliers, each offering a range of packages that can suit different needs, whether you’re browsing casually or working from home. If you’re a heavy user – streaming, gaming, or working remotely – it’s worth investing in a high-speed plan with unlimited data to avoid any interruptions or extra charges.

Useful links

• Toronto Hydro, Enbridge Gas and the Ontario Energy Board
• City of Toronto Water Services
• City of Toronto Waste Collection Schedule and Waste Wizard Tool
• Beanfield Metroconnect, Fido Home Internet, Bell Canada, Rogers Communications and TekSavvy