5 Best Websites for Affordable Temporary Housing in Canada
Looking for affordable housing in Canada? Whether you’re a newcomer, student, or temporary worker, finding a short-term place to live can be overwhelming; especially in high-cost cities like Toronto or Vancouver. But don’t worry! there are reliable websites that make it easier to find a cheap house in Canada that fits your needs and budget.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- Why temporary housing is in demand
- 5 websites to help you find a short-term home
- Common house types in Canada
- What to expect in terms of cost
- FAQs and expert tips
Let’s help you find the perfect place to land, no matter how long you plan to stay.
Why Temporary Housing Is in High Demand in Canada
Before diving into rental websites, it’s important to understand the market. According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), housing prices are influenced by:
- High demand in urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver
- Limited supply of affordable and rental units
- Increased immigration and international students
- Delays in new construction projects
Because of this, newcomers often turn to temporary housing until they settle and decide where to live long-term. Short-term rentals are also ideal for:
- International students
- Work permit holders
- Visitors and business travelers
5 Best Websites for Affordable Temporary Housing in Canada
Here are five trusted platforms that make it easier to find affordable temporary housing in Canada, whether you’re staying for a few weeks or several months:
1. Rentals.ca
Overview:
Rentals.ca is one of Canada’s largest rental platforms. It offers a wide range of listings including short-term, long-term, and furnished rentals. Whether you’re looking for a condo in Toronto or a basement apartment in Edmonton, you can filter results by city, price, type, number of bedrooms, and even amenities.
Best for: Apartments, condos, and houses across major cities
Features:
- Search by move-in date
- Price filtering (great for cheap house price in Canada)
- Verified landlord listings
- Mobile-friendly
2. Kijiji Canada
Kijiji is Canada’s go-to classifieds site. While it’s known for everything from job postings to car sales, its housing section is packed with rental listings directly from private owners—many of whom offer cheap housing options not found on other platforms.
Best for: Budget-friendly and local rental offers
Tips for Use:
- Use filters for furnished vs. unfurnished
- Search for “basement apartments” for lower rent
- Always meet the landlord in person or via video
3. Airbnb (Monthly Rentals Section)
While Airbnb is typically used for vacation rentals, many hosts offer monthly stay discounts that are ideal for temporary housing. Listings are often fully furnished, include utilities, and don’t require long-term leases—making it one of the simplest ways to secure a place upon arrival.
Best for: Fully furnished short-term stays
Pros:
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included
- Great for international arrivals
- Easy cancellation and reviews
- Immediate booking options
4. Facebook Marketplace & Housing Groups
Facebook is more than a social network—it’s one of the best ways to find cheap housing in Canada, especially in local housing groups. Many users post sublets, rooms, or full apartments directly to Marketplace or community groups.
Local Facebook groups like “Toronto Housing Rentals” or “Montreal Rooms & Apartments” often feature more affordable, last-minute options.
Best for: Short-term sublets and shared accommodations
🔗 Visit Facebook Marketplace Canada
Suggestions:
- Search for housing groups in the city you’re moving to
- Message posters directly
- Be cautious and avoid paying before verifying
5. PadMapper
PadMapper aggregates rental listings from various sources and displays them on an interactive map. This allows you to easily see where listings are located relative to schools, transit lines, or workplaces—making it perfect for planning your move.
Best for: Map-based rental search with price comparisons
Advantages:
- Great visual layout
- Filter by price, type, lease length
- Useful for spotting trends in rental pricing
Types of Houses in Canada You Might Find
Depending on the city and your budget, these are common Canada house types you’ll see listed:
- Apartments: Most common in cities; 1–3 bedrooms
- Basement Suites: Often cheaper and include utilities
- Townhouses: More spacious; good for families
- Condos: Often newer with building amenities
- Detached Homes: Rare for short-term unless subletting
How Much Does a House Cost in Canada (Renting vs. Buying)?
If you’re wondering how much a house costs in Canada, here’s a quick comparison:
| City | Average Rent (1-bed) | Average House Price (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | $2,350/month | $1.2M+ CAD |
| Vancouver | $2,650/month | $1.3M+ CAD |
| Calgary | $1,550/month | $550K CAD |
| Halifax | $1,400/month | $450K CAD |
*Based on market data from Realtor.ca & CMHC 2025
Buying a home might not be the first option for newcomers, but temporary renting through the websites above offers a flexible and budget-conscious solution.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to Canada, renting short-term is a smart way to save money and avoid long leases.
Final Tips
- Start your search early; especially during summer and back-to-school seasons
- Look beyond downtown; suburbs are cheaper
- Connect with local newcomer or student groups for referrals
Finding affordable housing in Canada isn’t always easy, but with the right websites and a smart strategy, it’s absolutely possible! it can be simple with the right tools. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly rental or a furnished short-term stay, trusted websites like Rentals.ca, Kijiji, and Airbnb can help you get started.
FAQ:
Q: Who needs temporary housing in Canada?
A: Newcomers, students, and temporary workers often start in short-term housing until they find a permanent place.
Q: Do I need a lease for short-term rentals?
A: Many temporary rentals don’t require a lease—especially on Airbnb or Facebook.
Q: Are utilities included in temporary housing?
A: Some are. Always check the listing for details.
Q: Is it safe to rent through Kijiji or Facebook?
A: Yes, but be cautious. Don’t send money before seeing the place or confirming the landlord’s identity.
