What exactly is Toronto’s $2.7 billion rental housing announcement?

On August 5, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow announced that the federal government, in partnership with the City of Toronto, is putting up to $2.7 billion toward unlocking 18 rental housing projects that had already cleared planning and permitting but stalled for lack of financing. Together, the projects are expected to deliver more than 5,600 rental homes, including a mix of affordable, supportive, rent-geared-to-income, and rent-controlled units alongside market-rate rentals. Not all of those homes will be protected by Ontario’s rent-increase guideline, and knowing which is which matters for anyone searching for a home in Toronto over the next few years.

The federal government is investing up to $2.7 billion in Toronto rental housing over the next three years, according to the Prime Minister’s official announcement. The City of Toronto is contributing separately: its own news release puts that contribution at $703.7 million in funding and financial incentives, while the federal backgrounder breaks a portion of that down as public land contributed at nominal value plus more than $530 million in direct capital funding, including property tax exemptions of up to 99 years. Between the two, 18 projects are expected to deliver more than 5,600 rental homes, with construction underway on more than 4,500 of them before the end of 2026.

Who announced it, when, and why

Carney and Chow made the announcement together, alongside federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson. All 18 projects had already been planned, permitted, and approved but lacked the financing to break ground, which is the specific gap this funding is meant to close.

How the money is split: Build Canada Homes vs. the Apartment Construction Loan Program

The funding runs through two federal channels. Build Canada Homes, a non-market housing agency, is providing more than $310 million to nine projects on city-owned land, delivering 1,885 rental homes through partnerships with public agencies, non-profits, and Indigenous housing providers. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Apartment Construction Loan Program is providing more than $1.8 billion in low-cost financing to nine private-sector, purpose-built rental projects, delivering 3,720 rental homes, with an additional up to $600 million in financing capacity reserved for future Toronto projects that meet program requirements.

Which projects and neighbourhoods are included

Unlike most housing funding announcements, this one comes with a full, address-level project list published in the federal government’s own backgrounder. Here are the nine Build Canada Homes projects on city-owned land:

On the market-rate side, the nine Apartment Construction Loan Program projects range from two large downtown towers at 49 Ontario Street (more than 1,200 homes combined) to the redevelopment of the former Toronto Coach Terminal at 130 Elizabeth Street and 610 Bay Street, which will also include a non-patient organ-preparation facility developed with the University Health Network and a paramedics hub. At the smaller end, all 50 units at 1552 Weston Road carry a 40-year affordability requirement, with 20 units receiving deeper affordability through a city rent supplement.

Will the new Toronto rental units actually be rent-controlled?

It depends entirely on which project, and even which unit within a project, you’re looking at. This announcement isn’t one homogeneous pool of housing: it explicitly includes affordable, supportive, rent-geared-to-income, and rent-controlled homes alongside plain market-rate rentals, according to both the federal backgrounder and the city’s release.

How Ontario’s rent control exemption applies to new builds

Separately from this announcement’s own affordability terms, Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act generally exempts any building first occupied for residential purposes after November 15, 2018, from the province’s annual rent-increase guideline. Since nearly everything in this portfolio is newly built, that exemption is likely to apply to many of the units once they’re occupied, on top of whatever affordability terms a specific project agreement sets. A landlord in an exempt building must still give written notice using the proper form at least 90 days before an increase and can raise rent no more than once every 12 months.

What “affordable,” “rent-controlled,” and “market” mean in this specific announcement

Of the 1,885 Build Canada Homes units, 739 are counted as affordable or supportive in the project-by-project table, delivered by non-profit, public, and Indigenous operators. The remaining roughly 1,146 units in that same non-market portfolio are described as mixed-income and long-term rent-controlled homes, meaning they’re still operated outside the private market even though they aren’t tagged specifically as affordable. Of the 3,720 Apartment Construction Loan Program units, which are privately developed and rented at market rates, 1,079 are affordable homes with their own program terms; the remaining roughly 2,641 are conventional market-rate rentals.

What renters should actually check before assuming their rent is protected

Because this portfolio mixes program types, the safest approach for a renter is to ask directly rather than assume. Confirm a building’s first occupancy date, ask whether the specific unit is affordable, rent-controlled, or market-rate under its operating agreement, and keep any notice of increase you receive. If you believe a rent increase is improper, whether because a building doesn’t qualify for the new-build exemption it claims or the notice requirements weren’t followed, you can raise a dispute with Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board.

What does “affordable housing” actually mean in Toronto, in real dollars?

Toronto works with two different rent figures under the umbrella of affordable, and mixing them up is where most confusion starts.

Two different numbers: Average Market Rent vs. Official Plan affordable rent

The city’s 2026 Average Market Rent figures, published annually by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and used by the City of Toronto, describe typical market rent by unit type. The city’s Official Plan affordable rent levels, adopted by City Council in November 2023 as an income-based definition, are set lower: whichever is less, the Average Market Rent for that unit type, or 30% of before-tax monthly income for a defined range of renter households by unit size.

The 2026 figures side by side

How this compares to what renters are paying today

liv.rent’s August 2026 Ontario Rent Report put the average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom in the City of Toronto at $1,947 that month, down 5.99% from $2,071 in August 2025. That figure sits above both the city’s Average Market Rent and its Official Plan affordable rent for a one-bedroom, which is the exact gap this announcement is aimed at closing over time.

How can Toronto renters access one of the new affordable units?

Because the affordable and supportive homes in this announcement are delivered by a mix of public agencies, non-profits, Indigenous housing providers, and private developers under separate program agreements, there is no single application portal that covers all 18 projects. Access runs through whichever organization operates a given building.

Who operates the affordable units, project by project

On the Build Canada Homes side, Toronto Community Housing Corporation leads 150 Queen’s Wharf Road and 405 Sherbourne Street, Homes First operates the supportive units at 805 Wellington Building A, and the Parkdale Neighbourhood Land Trust leads the Parkdale Hub redevelopment. On the Apartment Construction Loan Program side, 72 Perth Avenue’s 51 required affordable units will be managed by Woodgreen Community Housing, while 1552 Weston Road’s affordability terms run for 40 years under its housing agreement. As each provider finalizes its own application process, the city’s general channels, including random draws for affordable rental homes, are the best place to watch for openings.

Income eligibility, in dollars

For the city’s general affordable rental housing program, household income at initial occupancy is generally capped at four times the unit’s annualized rent. Applied to a unit renting at $1,500 a month, that works out to a household income limit of $72,000 a year. Specific projects and providers may apply their own eligibility rules on top of this general formula, so it’s worth confirming the exact terms with whichever organization operates the building you’re applying to.

Affordable units vs. Toronto’s separate RGI subsidized housing stream

It’s worth separating the affordable units in this announcement from Toronto’s rent-geared-to-income, or RGI, subsidized housing stream, which renters apply for through MyAccessToHousingTO and where rent is generally set at 30% of a household’s income before taxes. RGI housing typically involves a considerably longer wait than the affordable units in this announcement, so it helps to know which stream you’re actually applying to.

When will the 5,600 new Toronto rental homes actually be ready to move into?

Construction is targeted to begin on more than 4,500 of the 5,600 homes before the end of 2026, but a construction start is not a move-in date.

What a 2026 construction start actually means

The federal backgrounder gives one concrete marker: the Build Canada Homes portfolio is expected to reach substantial completion by March 2031. The Apartment Construction Loan Program portfolio doesn’t have a single published completion date, since it covers nine separately developed private projects, each moving through its own construction timeline.

Why these particular projects may move faster than a typical new proposal

All 18 projects had already cleared planning and permitting before this funding was announced, and were stalled specifically for lack of financing rather than approvals. Unlocking financing for already-approved projects, instead of starting the planning process from zero, is part of why the government expects faster delivery here than a brand-new proposal would see. Two projects are also using faster, lower-emission construction methods: volumetric modular at 805 Wellington Building A and mass timber at 1113-1125 Dundas Street West, methods the federal government says can cut construction waste and reduce emissions by up to 22%.

What renters can realistically plan around

With one confirmed target of March 2031 for the non-market portfolio and no single completion date for the market-rate portfolio, renters searching for a home today shouldn’t expect this announcement to meaningfully change what’s available in the next year or two. It’s a multi-year pipeline, not an immediate supply increase.

Is there legitimate criticism of the announcement that renters should understand?

Tenant advocates and opposition politicians have raised two distinct concerns since the announcement, and both are worth understanding on their own terms.

Tenant advocates: public money for private developers

Toronto Tenants Union co-chair Bruno Dobrusin criticized directing low-cost federal loans to private developers, calling it, in comments reported by CP24, “a bailout for the private developers who led us into this housing crisis.” His concern centres on the roughly 2,641 Apartment Construction Loan Program units that carry no specific affordability requirement.

The political critique: repackaged announcements

Conservative housing critic Scott Aitchison dismissed the announcement, as reported by Canadian Mortgage Professional, as “just another repackaging of projects already announced or already under construction.” The federal government’s position is that these projects had cleared approvals but were stalled by financing gaps, and that unblocking financing is itself the point of the intervention rather than a sign the projects aren’t genuinely new commitments.

What the province’s role, or absence, means

Frank Clayton, a senior research fellow at Toronto Metropolitan University, told NOW Toronto that the announcement is a positive step but that it remains unclear how many units will be within reach of lower-income renters, and noted it’s unusual for a housing initiative this size not to directly involve the province. Ontario remains responsible for the Residential Tenancies Act regardless of whether it took part in this specific announcement, so today’s tenant protections are unaffected by that absence.

What should Toronto renters do right now while the new supply is being built?

Because this supply is years away, it makes sense to focus on today’s market in the meantime. liv.rent’s August 2026 Ontario Rent Report found the average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom in the City of Toronto was $1,947 that month, down 5.99% from $2,071 a year earlier, a shift worth keeping in mind while comparing current listings and asking rents.

If you already have a rent-controlled unit

Know your building’s first occupancy date and keep your lease and any rent-increase notices on file. Ontario’s 2026 guideline caps annual increases at 2.1% for covered units, and a landlord must give proper notice and wait a full 12 months between increases.

If you’re viewing a new-build listing

Ask for the building’s first occupancy date and whether the specific unit falls under an affordable, rent-controlled, or market program before signing. If the building is exempt from Ontario’s annual guideline, factor that into your budget for future years rather than assuming your first year’s rent is a reliable guide to your third year’s rent.

How liv.rent can help while you search

liv.rent’s listing alerts let renters set criteria such as location, price, housing type, bedroom count, and pet policy, then get notified as matching listings go live. Listings can also show whether a landlord has completed liv.rent’s ID verification, and the renter’s guide to using liv.rent walks through the rest of the process, from messaging a landlord to signing a lease.

This is general information, not legal advice. Renters and landlords with a specific dispute should contact Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board or a licensed paralegal for guidance on their situation.

The post Toronto’s $2.7 billion rental housing announcement: what it actually means for renters in 2026 appeared first on liv.rent blog.

Is Gatineau actually cheaper than Montreal to rent in 2026?

Montreal’s average unfurnished one-bedroom asking rent sat at $1,605 in August 2026, according to liv.rent’s August 2026 Montreal Rent Report. liv.rent doesn’t currently publish a comparable Gatineau rent report, and CMHC’s 2025 purpose-built rental data doesn’t support the assumption that Gatineau is automatically cheaper. Here’s what rent, transit, and Quebec’s 2026 tenant rules actually look like in both cities this year.

The honest answer: it depends on which dataset you trust, and by how much. liv.rent’s most recent Montreal Rent Report puts the citywide average unfurnished one-bedroom at $1,605 a month for August 2026, up 1.2% from July but still 5.2% ($88) below where it stood a year earlier.

The most reliable comparison for Gatineau comes from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s 2025 Rental Market Report, which tracks purpose-built rental buildings rather than individual listings. On that measure, Gatineau’s average purpose-built two-bedroom rent ran higher than Montreal’s in 2025 ($1,460 versus $1,346), even though Gatineau’s purpose-built vacancy rate was higher too (3.8% versus 2.9%). That’s the opposite of the popular “Gatineau is the bargain” story, and it’s a reminder that the answer changes depending on the dataset and unit type behind it.

Here’s how the two cities compare on paper:

For renters weighing both cities, the practical move is to compare like with like (unit type, furnished versus unfurnished, and the same month) rather than lean on a single headline number.

Montreal’s rent range, from Villeray to Downtown

Even within Montreal, the spread is wide enough to change the entire comparison. In liv.rent’s August 2026 data, Downtown was the most expensive neighbourhood tracked, with unfurnished one-bedrooms asking $1,819 a month, while Villeray-Parc-Extension was the most affordable at $1,368, a neighbourhood that also posted the steepest year-over-year drop citywide at 13.8%. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve was the only one of the ten tracked neighbourhoods to see rent climb year over year, up 1.3% to $1,419; the report puts the average decline across the other nine at roughly 5.7%.

Montreal’s own internal range, roughly $450 a month between its cheapest and priciest neighbourhoods, is nearly as wide as the entire Montreal-versus-Gatineau debate. Where you rent inside Montreal can matter as much as which city you pick.

How do transit costs compare between Montreal and Gatineau?

Transit is where the two cities diverge most clearly. Montreal’s STM sells its Monthly, All Modes A pass, covering bus, métro, and REM service within Zone A, for $110 a month at the regular adult rate, or $66 for eligible reduced fares.

Gatineau’s STO runs a bus-only network, but it connects directly with Ottawa’s OC Transpo for cross-river trips. Its 2026 regular fare schedule prices the monthly pass at $116.50, with single trips at $4.00 through the e-wallet system or $4.75 in cash. A full monthly pass currently costs a bit more in Gatineau than in Montreal, even without a métro network behind it, so renters who commute into Ottawa regularly should factor that in rather than assume Gatineau’s smaller system is automatically cheaper to use.

What Quebec’s 2026 tenant rules mean for Montreal and Gatineau renters

Because Montreal and Gatineau are both in Quebec, renters in either city answer to the same provincial residential lease rules, administered by the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL), and the same rule changes apply equally in both markets.

Significant updates to the province’s rent-setting and lease-notice rules took effect on January 1, 2026, according to the TAL’s calculation for rent increase page. For leases renewing between April 2, 2026, and April 1, 2027, the TAL lists a 3.1% base percentage applicable to rent, but this is part of the calculation method rather than a fixed cap. A landlord can propose a different amount based on the building’s own costs.

Tenants in both cities keep the same protections after a rent-increase notice: you generally have one month to refuse an increase in writing, and if you do, your landlord then has one month to apply to the TAL or the lease renews on its previous terms. Newer buildings, built or converted within the last five years, can be exempt from standard rent-fixing rules only if the restriction is stated in the lease itself. None of this is legal advice, so for a specific notice, the TAL’s own forms and info offices are the place to confirm your options. For more, see liv.rent’s guide to Quebec’s rent increase limit.

Beyond rent: Quebec’s subsidized childcare system

One cost that does not change between Montreal and Gatineau is subsidized childcare. Quebec’s reduced contribution rate for a spot in a subsidized CPE (centre de la petite enfance) is $9.65 a day in 2026, indexed each January by the province, whether the centre is in Montreal or Gatineau. That rate only applies once a child is actually admitted to a subsidized spot, and wait times vary enough by neighbourhood that they’re worth checking locally.

Who should choose Montreal, and who should choose Gatineau?

Neither city is the clear winner for every renter. Montreal suits renters who want a large rental market with a wide price range to shop across, a métro network you can rely on without a car, and access to Quebec’s largest job market, spanning finance, tech, and creative industries.

Gatineau tends to suit renters who work in Ottawa, including the many who commute into federal government jobs there, and who want Quebec’s cost structure and tax treatment while keeping that commute practical. It also works for renters who’ve simply found more space for their budget on the Quebec side of the river. Since both cities are governed by identical tenant protections, the deciding factors come down to commute, transit dependence, and where your paycheque comes from, not which city offers better tenant rights, because it’s the same provincial law either way.

How to find and secure a rental in Montreal or Gatineau in 2026

A few Quebec-specific basics apply everywhere in the province. All residential leases must use the TAL’s mandatory lease form, required since September 1, 1996, so it’s worth knowing what that document looks like before you sign anything else. If a landlord tells you a newer building is exempt from standard rent-fixing rules, that exemption needs to be written into the lease itself, not just mentioned verbally.

liv.rent lists rentals in both Montreal and Gatineau. Landlords who complete the platform’s ID Verified process carry that badge on their profile, so you can see at a glance who you’re renting from in either market.

The post Montreal vs Gatineau cost comparison for renters: what your rent actually buys in 2026 appeared first on liv.rent blog.

August 2026 Montreal rent report

At a glance

• Every Montreal neighbourhood except Hochelaga-Maisonneuve saw unfurnished rents fall year-over-year
  • Nine of Montreal’s 10 tracked neighbourhoods recorded lower unfurnished one-bedroom rents in August compared with a year earlier, with declines ranging from 1.4% in Ahuntsic-Cartierville to 13.8% in Villeray-Parc-Extension. Across those nine neighbourhoods, rents decreased by an average of approximately 5.7%. Hochelaga-Maisonneuve was the lone exception, edging up 1.3% to $1,419.
• Villeray-Parc-Extension posts the city’s steepest year-over-year decline
  • Villeray-Parc-Extension’s unfurnished one-bedroom rent fell 13.8% year-over-year to $1,368, down from $1,587 in August 2025, the steepest decline of any Montreal neighbourhood. That drop also leaves Villeray-Parc-Extension as the city’s most affordable neighbourhood this month.
• Furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom rents moved in opposite directions this month
  • Montreal’s average unfurnished one-bedroom rent rose 1.2% month-over-month to $1,605, while the average furnished one-bedroom rent eased 0.8% to $1,610.

Download liv.rent’s 2026 Canada rental market trends report for in-depth insights and forecasts on average rent prices, regional market comparisons, key economic drivers, and emerging AI trends shaping Canada’s rental landscape.

Let’s look now at the current rental costs and overarching trends in Montreal for August 2026.

Average rent across Montreal

This month, the average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom unit increased 1.2% from July, settling at $1,605 per month. Since August 2025, the Montreal average for an unfurnished one-bedroom has decreased 5.2%, a drop of $88, though it remains well below rates in other major Canadian rental markets like Metro Vancouver and Toronto.

Viewed across the year so far, unfurnished one-bedroom asking rents in Montreal have held below the same months in 2025 throughout, though the gap has narrowed over the course of the year.

Month-to-month rent change

To better understand how rent prices shifted across Montreal this month, here are the most significant month-over-month movements for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units.

Among furnished one-bedroom units, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce/Côte-des-Neiges recorded the largest increase, rising 5.2%, followed by Downtown at 3%. Le Plateau-Mont-Royal posted the largest decrease, falling 7.9%, followed by Villeray-Parc-Extension at 3.5%.

Among unfurnished one-bedroom units, Westmount recorded the largest increase, rising 4.7%, followed by Villeray-Parc-Extension at 4.1%. Ahuntsic-Cartierville posted the largest decrease, falling 3.4%, followed by Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, which eased 0.2%.

Montreal unfurnished vs furnished rent averages

Average prices for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units in Montreal moved in opposite directions this month. Furnished one-bedrooms eased 0.8% to $1,610 per month, while unfurnished units increased 1.2% to $1,605. Based on the displayed averages, a furnished one-bedroom currently rents for $5 more per month than an unfurnished one.

Looking for our full August 2026 Montreal rent report? Download your copy in the downloadable resources section for all the latest insights, including a detailed breakdown by neighbourhood.

Neighbourhood breakdown

We break Montreal down by neighbourhood for a more complete picture of the city’s rental market. Across all 10 neighbourhoods we track, Downtown is the most expensive place to rent this month, with an unfurnished one-bedroom asking $1,819 per month. Villeray-Parc-Extension is the most affordable at $1,368 per month.

The table below breaks down this month’s average asking rent by neighbourhood and listing type, along with each neighbourhood’s year-over-year change on unfurnished one-bedroom units. The table is interactive: sort any column, or download it as an image.

Let’s look even closer at the different listing types to see the differences in one-, two-, and three-bedroom rental rates across each area.

• Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, Downtown, and Westmount were the only neighbourhoods that saw an increase in price across all types of unfurnished units this month.
• Saint-Laurent and Ahuntsic-Cartierville were the only neighbourhoods that saw a decrease in price across all types of unfurnished units.
• Downtown, Saint Henri, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce/Côte-des-Neiges, and Ahuntsic-Cartierville were the only neighbourhoods where furnished one-bedroom rents increased this month.

The chart below shows the percentage change since last month for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units across every Montreal neighbourhood.

Be sure to subscribe to our mailing list so you never miss an update on the Montreal rental market.

Downloadable resources

Data collection methodology

Rethink the way you rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications and contracts, verified tenants and landlords, virtual tours, and more, all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive monthly updates on Canada’s major rental markets. Discover last month’s rent reports below:

Vancouver rent report
Ontario rent report
Montreal rent report
Calgary and Edmonton rent report

The post August 2026 Montreal rent report appeared first on liv.rent blog.

August 2026 Winnipeg rent report

At a glance

• Winnipeg’s citywide rent decline breaks a three-month climb
  • The average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom in Winnipeg fell to $1,338 in August, a decrease of 1.16% from July and the first month-over-month decline since April. Rents had climbed for three consecutive months, from $1,304 in April to $1,353 in July, before easing this month. Five of Winnipeg’s six neighbourhoods recorded lower unfurnished one-bedroom rents in August, with only St. Boniface posting an increase.
• Winnipeg Downtown posts declines across every unfurnished unit size
  • Winnipeg Downtown was the only neighbourhood where unfurnished rents fell across all three unit sizes this month. Its unfurnished three-bedroom rent dropped 5.99% to $1,981, and its two-bedroom rent fell 5.52% to $1,836, while the one-bedroom average eased 1.63% to $1,334.
• Furnished units are not always the pricier option in Winnipeg
  • In North End and South Winnipeg, average furnished one-bedroom asking rents came in below their unfurnished counterparts this month. North End’s furnished one-bedroom average was $906, compared with $1,316 unfurnished, while South Winnipeg’s furnished one-bedroom average was $863, compared with $1,369 unfurnished. Winnipeg Downtown followed the more typical pattern, with furnished one-bedroom units asking $1,606, about 20% more than the $1,334 unfurnished average.

Download liv.rent’s 2026 Canada rental market trends report for in-depth insights and forecasts on average rent prices, regional market comparisons, key economic drivers, and emerging AI trends shaping Canada’s rental landscape.

Let’s look now at the current rental costs and overarching trends in Winnipeg for August 2026. Curious how Winnipeg compares with other major Canadian markets? Take a look at our latest Metro Vancouver and Toronto rent reports.

Average rent across Winnipeg

This month, the average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom unit in Winnipeg decreased 1.16% from July, a drop of $15, settling at $1,338 per month. That marks the first month-over-month decline since April, breaking a run of increases that carried the citywide average from $1,304 in April to $1,353 in July. Even after this month’s pullback, Winnipeg’s average one-bedroom rent remains above where it started the spring.

Manitoba’s annual rent increase guideline for 2026 is set at 1.8%, calculated from the province’s Consumer Price Index and applying to most residential rental units. Landlords planning an increase should confirm their unit isn’t exempt, since units renting at $1,670 or more per month and buildings first occupied after March 2005 fall outside the guideline, and should provide tenants at least three months’ written notice before the increase takes effect.

Month-to-month rent change

Among unfurnished one-bedroom units, South Winnipeg recorded the largest decrease at 2.45%, followed by North End at 1.72% and Winnipeg Downtown at 1.63%. St. Boniface was the only neighbourhood to see an increase, up 1.37% from July.

Two-bedroom units softened across every neighbourhood this month, led by a 6.23% decline in North End. Three-bedroom units were more mixed: St. Boniface posted the largest increase at 7.60%, while Winnipeg Downtown recorded the largest decrease at 5.99%.

Winnipeg unfurnished vs. furnished rent averages

The citywide average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom in Winnipeg decreased 1.16% this month to $1,338. Citywide furnished one-bedroom data was not available in August, but neighbourhood-level furnished figures tell an interesting story where they do exist.

Furnished units don’t always carry the premium renters might expect. In Winnipeg Downtown, a furnished one-bedroom asks $1,606 this month, about 20% more than the $1,334 unfurnished average there, in line with the usual pattern. But in North End and South Winnipeg, furnished one-bedrooms are actually asking less than unfurnished units in the same area: $906 versus $1,316 in North End, and $863 versus $1,369 in South Winnipeg. Renters open to a furnished unit in either neighbourhood may find it’s the better deal this month.

Looking for our full August 2026 Winnipeg rent report? Download your copy in the downloadable resources section for all the latest insights, including a detailed breakdown by neighbourhood.

Neighbourhood breakdown

Across Winnipeg’s six neighbourhoods, South Winnipeg is the most expensive place to rent this month, with an unfurnished one-bedroom asking $1,369 per month. St. Boniface is the most affordable at $1,301 per month, a gap of $68 between the city’s priciest and most affordable areas for a one-bedroom.

Let’s look even closer at the different listing types to see the differences in one-, two-, and three-bedroom rental rates across each area.

• All unfurnished one-bedroom rent prices decreased across Winnipeg neighbourhoods except St. Boniface.
• Unfurnished two-bedroom rent prices decreased across every Winnipeg neighbourhood this month.
• All types of unfurnished rental units decreased in Winnipeg Downtown.

For a full breakdown by neighbourhood and bedroom count, see the furnished and unfurnished tables below.

The table below is interactive: sort any column, or download it as an image.

Here is the month-over-month percentage change in unfurnished rent by neighbourhood.

Be sure to subscribe to our mailing list so you never miss an update on the Winnipeg rental market.

Downloadable resources

Data collection methodology

Rethink the way you rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications and contracts, verified tenants and landlords, virtual tours, and more, all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive monthly updates on Canada’s major rental markets. Discover last month’s rent reports below:

Vancouver rent report
Ontario rent report
Montreal rent report
Calgary and Edmonton rent report

The post August 2026 Winnipeg Rent Report appeared first on liv.rent blog.

August 2026 Calgary and Edmonton rent report

At a glance

• Unfurnished one-bedroom rents declined year-over-year across both Alberta metros
  • Calgary’s average unfurnished one-bedroom rent fell 7.46% year-over-year to $1,465, down from $1,583 in August 2025. Edmonton’s fell 2.91% over the same span, to $1,264 from $1,301.
• Calgary’s furnished segment has cooled far more sharply than Edmonton’s
  • Calgary’s average furnished one-bedroom rent dropped 16.96% year-over-year, from $1,898 to $1,576, nearly double Edmonton’s 8.80% decline over the same period, from $1,549 to $1,413.
• Calgary Southwest shows furnished and unfurnished rents moving in opposite directions
  • Furnished one-bedroom rents in Calgary Southwest fell 5.96% this month to $1,590, while unfurnished one-bedrooms rose 1.86% to $1,556. Two-bedroom units showed the same split: furnished down 3.49% to $1,980, unfurnished up 4.29% to $1,959.

Download liv.rent’s 2026 Canada rental market trends report for in-depth insights and forecasts on average rent prices, regional market comparisons, key economic drivers, and emerging AI trends shaping Canada’s rental landscape.

As of July 15, 2026, the Bank of Canada held its policy interest rate at 2.25%, the sixth consecutive hold. The next scheduled announcement is September 2, 2026. Alberta does not cap rent increases. For a monthly periodic tenancy, landlords must give at least three full tenancy months’ written notice, and rent cannot increase during a fixed term or until at least 365 days have passed since the tenancy began or the rent was last increased.

Let’s look now at the current rental costs and overarching trends in Calgary and Edmonton for August 2026.

Average rent across Calgary

This month, Calgary’s average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom eased 0.25% from July, settling at $1,465 per month. Since August 2025, the Calgary average for an unfurnished one-bedroom has decreased 7.46%, a drop of $118.

Month-to-month rent change

To better understand how rent prices have shifted across Calgary this month, here is the percentage change for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units by quadrant.

Among furnished one-bedroom units, Calgary Southeast was the only quadrant to see an increase, up 3.24%, while Northeast posted the largest decrease at 7.76%, followed by Southwest at 5.96%. Among unfurnished one-bedroom units, Southwest recorded the largest increase at 1.86%, while Northeast posted the largest decrease at 2.27%.

Average unfurnished and furnished rates

Unfurnished vs. furnished rates in Calgary

Calgary’s furnished one-bedroom rents decreased 2.97% this month to $1,576, while unfurnished one-bedrooms eased a smaller 0.25% to $1,465. A furnished one-bedroom currently rents for $111 more per month than an unfurnished one on average.

Average rent across Edmonton

This month, Edmonton’s average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom rose 2.25% from July, settling at $1,264 per month. Since August 2025, the Edmonton average for an unfurnished one-bedroom has decreased 2.91%, a drop of $38.

Month-to-month rent change

Turning to Edmonton, here is the percentage change for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units by sector this month.

Among unfurnished one-bedroom units, five of Edmonton’s six sectors increased, led by Northeast at 6.68%, with Southeast the lone exception, down 0.82%. Among furnished one-bedroom units, Southeast recorded the largest increase at 5.38%, while West held essentially flat, down 0.04%, the only sector to post a decrease.

Unfurnished vs. furnished rates in Edmonton

Turning to Edmonton, furnished one-bedroom rents rose 1.08% this month to $1,413, while unfurnished one-bedrooms rose 2.25% to $1,264. A furnished one-bedroom currently rents for $149 more per month than an unfurnished one on average.

Quadrant/Sector breakdown

Rental averages vary widely within both Calgary and Edmonton, so we break the data out by quadrant and sector to compare one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom rates for furnished and unfurnished units. This month, Calgary’s most expensive quadrant for an unfurnished one-bedroom is Southwest at $1,556, while Northeast is the most affordable at $1,320. In Edmonton, Southwest is the priciest sector at $1,344, while West is the most affordable at $1,197.

Quadrant breakdown: Calgary

Looking closer at Calgary by listing type, here is what changed since last month:

• Furnished one-bedroom rents decreased across four of Calgary’s five quadrants, the exception being Southeast, up 3.24%.
• Unfurnished two-bedroom rents increased across four of five quadrants, the exception being Northwest, down 5.31%.
• Unfurnished three-bedroom rents increased across four of five quadrants, the exception being City Centre, down 0.91%.

The table below combines furnished and unfurnished rates into a single view with year-over-year context, and can be sorted by any column or downloaded as an image.

Sector breakdown: Edmonton

Looking closer at Edmonton by listing type, here is what changed since last month:

• Unfurnished one-bedroom rents increased across five of Edmonton’s six sectors, the exception being Southeast, down 0.82%.
• Unfurnished two-bedroom rents also increased across five of six sectors, again with Southeast as the exception, down 3.60%.
• Furnished one-bedroom rents increased across four of the five Edmonton sectors with data this month, the exception being West, essentially flat, down 0.04%.

As with Calgary, the table below combines furnished and unfurnished rates with year-over-year context, and can be sorted by any column or downloaded as an image.

Downloadable resources

Rental resources for Alberta renters

These comprehensive guides cover renting in Alberta and using liv.rent to streamline your rental process.

• FAQ: Landlord & tenant responsibilities in Alberta
• FAQ: Everything you need to know about rent deposits in Alberta
• The Complete User Guide To liv.rent For Landlords & Property Managers
• The Ultimate Renter’s Guide To Using liv.rent

Data collection methodology

Rethink the way you rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications and contracts, verified tenants and landlords, virtual tours, and more, all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive monthly updates on Canada’s major rental markets. Discover last month’s rent reports below:

Vancouver rent report
Ontario rent report
Montreal rent report
Winnipeg rent report

The post August 2026 Calgary & Edmonton rent report appeared first on liv.rent blog.

August 2026 Metro Vancouver rent report

At a glance

• Unfurnished one-bedroom rents declined across every Metro Vancouver city year-over-year
  • All nine cities recorded lower unfurnished one-bedroom rents compared with August 2025, with declines ranging from 1.6% in Langley to 8.46% in Richmond. The average decline across the nine cities was approximately 4.7%.
• Burnaby is the only city where every rental category rose this month
  • Burnaby recorded month-over-month increases across all six rental categories, furnished and unfurnished alike. Its largest gain was for furnished three-bedroom homes, which rose 4.74% from $3,046 to $3,190.
• Coquitlam’s furnished and unfurnished markets are moving in opposite directions
  • Since July, Coquitlam’s furnished one-bedroom rents fell 1.21% from $2,051 to $2,026 and furnished two-bedroom rents fell 3.12% from $2,426 to $2,350. Over the same period, unfurnished one-bedroom rents rose 1.85% from $1,999 to $2,036, while unfurnished two-bedroom rents rose 0.63% from $2,403 to $2,418.

Download liv.rent’s 2026 Canada rental market trends report for in-depth insights and forecasts on average rent prices, regional market comparisons, key economic drivers, and emerging AI trends shaping Canada’s rental landscape.

As of July 15, 2026, the Bank of Canada held its policy interest rate at 2.25%, the sixth consecutive hold. The next scheduled announcement is September 2, 2026. B.C.’s annual allowable rent increase limit for 2026 remains capped at 2.3%.

Let’s look now at the current rental costs and overarching trends in Vancouver for August 2026.

Average asking rent across Metro Vancouver

This month, the average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom unit increased 0.45% from July, settling at $2,098 per month. Since August 2025, the Metro Vancouver-wide average for an unfurnished one-bedroom has decreased 4.86%, a drop of $107.

Planning on raising rent this year? B.C.’s annual allowable rent increase limit for 2026 is capped at 2.3%. Find out when and how to increase rent, and how to comply with provincial guidelines, by reading our updated guide to B.C. rent increases.

Rental trend

Viewed across the year so far, unfurnished one-bedroom asking rents have held in a narrow band since January while remaining below the same months in 2025. The gap against last year continued to narrow in August, down to 4.86% from 6.43% in July.

Month-over-month rent change

To better understand how rent prices have shifted across Metro Vancouver cities, here are the most significant month-over-month movements for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units.

Among furnished one-bedroom units, West Vancouver recorded the largest increase at 3.94%, followed by Vancouver at 2.33% and Burnaby and Langley, both at 1.96%. Surrey posted the largest decrease at 3.80%, followed by Coquitlam at 1.21% and North Vancouver at 1.14%.

Among unfurnished one-bedroom units, North Vancouver recorded the largest increase at 3.59%, followed by Coquitlam at 1.85%. Richmond posted the largest decrease at 2.67%, followed by Langley at 1.05%.

Rent per square foot

Where is the most affordable place to rent in Metro Vancouver based on the space you get? As of August 2026, the average asking rent per square foot eased 0.35% from July to $3.14. The least expensive cities for square footage are Richmond, Coquitlam, and Langley. The most expensive are North Vancouver, Vancouver, and Burnaby.

Active listing data

We also examine detailed statistics for currently active listings on the market to see which property types and bedroom counts are most represented. For renters, these numbers show the types of units you are most likely to encounter across Metro Vancouver. For landlords, they indicate how much competition you face based on current supply.

Active listings by property type

As of August 2026, apartments were the most common rental property type on the market at 73.41% of active listings. Partial houses were the second most represented unit type this month at 15.91%, followed by houses at 6.81% and townhouses at 3.87%.

Active listings by number of bedrooms

Looking at bedroom counts, one-bedroom units were the most common listing this month at 46.69%, with two-bedroom units close behind at 42.54%. Three-bedroom units made up the remaining 10.77%.

Average unfurnished and furnished rates

Average prices for both furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units increased across Metro Vancouver this month. Furnished one-bedrooms increased 0.34% to $2,181 per month, while unfurnished units increased 0.45% to $2,098. A furnished one-bedroom currently rents for $83 more per month than an unfurnished one on average.

Looking for our full August 2026 Metro Vancouver rent report? Download your copy in the downloadable resources section for all the latest insights, including a detailed breakdown by neighbourhood.

City breakdown

Rental averages vary widely across Metro Vancouver, so we break the data out by municipality to compare one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom rates for furnished and unfurnished units. Highlights from this month’s findings:

• All unfurnished unit types increased in price across Burnaby, Surrey, North Vancouver, and New Westminster.
• All furnished unit types increased in Vancouver and Burnaby. Richmond and Surrey also had complete furnished three-bedroom data this month, but not all furnished categories increased in those two cities.
• Coquitlam’s unfurnished rents are rising while its furnished rents fall: unfurnished one-bedroom rents increased 1.85% and two-bedroom rents increased 0.63%, while furnished one-bedroom rents decreased 1.21% and two-bedroom rents decreased 3.12%.

The table includes a year-over-year column comparing each city’s unfurnished one-bedroom asking rent with August 2025. Every city sits below where it was a year ago, with declines ranging from 1.6% in Langley to 8.46% in Richmond. The table is interactive: sort any column, or download it as an image.

Neighbourhood breakdown

We break Vancouver down by neighbourhood for a more complete picture of the city’s rental markets. For neighbourhood detail in municipalities outside Vancouver, download the complete rent report.

Among City of Vancouver neighbourhoods with available unfurnished one-bedroom data, West Point Grey and UBC is the most expensive this month at $2,741 per month, while Sunset and Victoria Fraserview is the most affordable at $1,802 per month.

We have added new neighbourhoods to our monthly reports that are not shown in the data below. For those additional neighbourhoods, furnished rental statistics, and neighbourhood breakdowns for other Metro Vancouver cities, download your copy of the full report in the downloadable resources section.

Most expensive cities in Canada

This August, four of the country’s five most expensive cities are again in Metro Vancouver, though the lineup has shifted since July: Burnaby has entered the top five in place of Richmond. West Vancouver claims the top spot as the most expensive city in Canada to rent in, followed by North Vancouver, Vancouver, and Burlington, Ontario, with Burnaby rounding out the top five.

*Based on a smaller sample of listings.

These insights are exclusive to our blog and give more context to each month’s rental data. Based on data sourced directly from liv.rent, these statistics provide a broader view of the current rental situation in Canada.

Renter demographics

liv.rent renters span several age groups, with the largest share aged 35 to 44 at 38%, followed by renters aged 25 to 34 at 24%. Renters aged 45 to 54 account for 15%, renters under 25 account for 12%, and renters aged 55 and older account for 11%.

Pet-friendly rentals

liv.rent continues to be the rental platform with the most pet-friendly rentals. This August, 24% of units on other rental platforms were pet-friendly, compared with 55% of all units listed on liv.rent.

Downloadable resources

Rental resources for B.C. renters

These comprehensive guides cover renting in B.C. and using liv.rent to streamline your rental process.

• B.C. residential tenancy agreement explained
• Guide to B.C. tenancy forms
• The complete user guide to liv.rent for landlords and property managers
• The ultimate renter’s guide to using liv.rent

Data collection methodology

Rethink the way you rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications and contracts, verified tenants and landlords, virtual tours, and more, all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Subscribe to receive monthly updates on Canada’s major rental markets. Discover last month’s rent reports below:

Vancouver rent report
Ontario rent report
Montreal rent report
Calgary and Edmonton rent report

The post August 2026 Metro Vancouver rent report appeared first on liv.rent blog.

August 2026 Ontario rent report

At a glance

• City of Toronto rents are down nearly 6% from a year ago
  • The average asking rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom in the City of Toronto was $1,947 this August, down 5.99% from $2,071 in August 2025. Rents have sat below the same month a year earlier every month so far in 2026.
• Mississauga’s furnished rents pulled back sharply
  • Mississauga posted the sharpest single move in the dataset this month, with furnished one-bedroom rents falling 14.40% from $1,931 to $1,653. Furnished two-bedroom rents in Mississauga also decreased 4.91%, even as the city’s unfurnished one-bedroom rents rose 1.12%.
• Furnished one-bedrooms are now cheaper than unfurnished ones in Toronto
  • The average furnished one-bedroom in the City of Toronto, at $1,930, cost less than the average unfurnished one-bedroom, at $1,947, this month, a reversal of the usual furnished premium. Furnished one-bedroom rents rose 0.65% from July, while unfurnished one-bedroom rents fell 0.68% over the same period.

Download the latest Toronto rent report

For the complete Toronto rent report including municipality breakdowns, download here.

Download report

Download liv.rent’s 2026 Canada rental market trends report for in-depth insights and forecasts on average rent prices, regional market comparisons, key economic drivers, and emerging AI trends shaping Canada’s rental landscape.

As of July 15, 2026, the Bank of Canada held its policy interest rate at 2.25%, the sixth consecutive hold. The next scheduled announcement is September 2, 2026.

Let’s look now at the current rental costs and overarching trends in Toronto for August 2026.

Ontario rent trends

Planning on raising rent this year? Ontario’s annual rent increase guideline for 2026 is capped at 2.1%. Find out when and how to increase rent, and how to comply with provincial rules, by reading our updated guide to Ontario rent increases.

Recommended reading: Guide to Ontario Rent Increases

Viewed across the year so far, the City of Toronto’s unfurnished one-bedroom asking rent has held in a narrow band while remaining well below the same months in 2025. The gap against last year has stayed wide through the spring and summer.

Is your rental priced competitively?

Find out with a free rent estimate. Our team of rental experts will calculate your unit’s true value based on your listing details and current market trends.

Get your free estimate

Month-to-month rent change

To better understand how rent prices have shifted across selected Ontario areas, here are the most significant month-over-month movements for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units.

Unfurnished Toronto rent trends

For unfurnished one-bedroom units, Markham, Ottawa, and Brampton recorded the strongest increases, while North York, Downtown Toronto, and Scarborough posted the most notable decreases.

Furnished Toronto rent trends

Furnished one-bedroom rents increased most in Ottawa, Scarborough, and Brampton, while Mississauga recorded the sharpest decline, followed by Markham and North York.

Read more: The ultimate renter’s guide to using liv.rent

Toronto furnished vs. unfurnished averages

Average prices for furnished and unfurnished one-bedroom units in the City of Toronto moved in opposite directions this month. Furnished one-bedrooms rose 0.65% to $1,930 per month, while unfurnished units decreased 0.68% to $1,947. A furnished one-bedroom now rents for $17 less per month than an unfurnished one on average, a reversal from the usual furnished premium.

Read more: 56 Questions Every Landlord Should Ask Applicants Before They Sign A Lease

Rent per square foot

Where is the most affordable place to rent among the selected Ontario areas based on the space you get? As of August 2026, the average asking rent per square foot rose 3.28% from July to $2.28. The least expensive areas for square footage are Brampton, Vaughan-Richmond Hill, and Markham. The most expensive are Etobicoke, Downtown Toronto, and Mississauga.

Active listing data

We also examine detailed statistics for currently active listings on the market to see which property types and bedroom counts are most represented. For renters, these numbers show the types of units you are most likely to encounter across the GTA. For landlords, they indicate how much competition you face based on current supply.

Active listings by property type

As of August 2026, apartments were the most common rental property type on the market at 95.65% of active listings. Partial houses were the second most represented unit type this month at 1.92%, followed by houses at 1.31% and townhouses at 1.12%.

Active listings by number of bedrooms

Looking at bedroom counts, one-bedroom units were the most common listing this month at 49.29%, with two-bedroom units close behind at 42.21%. Three-bedroom units made up the remaining 8.50%.

City breakdown

Rental averages vary widely across Ontario, so we compare one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom rates for furnished and unfurnished units across 20 tracked areas. Among the 20 Ontario areas we track, Oakville is the most expensive this month, with an unfurnished one-bedroom asking $2,172 per month, while London is the most affordable at $1,547 per month, a difference of $625.

Read more: Rental Vacancy Rates In The City Of Toronto

Let’s take a closer look at how rents shifted this month by listing type across the GTA:

• Unfurnished one-bedroom rents were mixed across GTA areas this month. Downtown Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Oshawa, Milton, and Burlington declined, while the other tracked GTA areas increased.
• Furnished one-bedroom rents were mixed across GTA areas. York, East York, Scarborough, Oshawa, Brampton, Milton, Burlington, and Oakville increased, while six other tracked areas declined.
• Vaughan-Richmond Hill and East York were the only tracked GTA areas where every unfurnished unit type with available data increased this month.

Read more: FAQ: Everything You Need To Know About Rent Deposits In Ontario

Is your rental priced competitively?

Find out with a free rent estimate. Our team of rental experts will calculate your unit’s true value based on your listing details and current market trends.

Get your free estimate

Rental averages for other Ontario cities

Across other Ontario areas outside the City of Toronto, rents were mixed this month. London continues to offer the most affordable unfurnished one-bedroom average in our dataset at $1,547, while Burlington and Oakville remain among the priciest municipalities we track outside the downtown core, at $2,117 and $2,172 respectively. Kitchener held closer to the middle of the pack at $1,635, and Ottawa’s unfurnished one-bedroom average was $1,849 this month. For the full municipality-by-municipality breakdown, download our full report here.

Most expensive cities in Canada

This August, four of the country’s five most expensive cities are in Metro Vancouver, with our own Burlington the only non-B.C. city to make the list. West Vancouver claims the top spot as the most expensive city in Canada to rent in, followed by North Vancouver and Vancouver, with Burlington and Burnaby rounding out the top five.

Downloadable resources

Download the latest Toronto rent report

For the complete Toronto rent report including municipality breakdowns, download here.

Download report

Renting in Ontario

These comprehensive guides cover renting in Ontario and using liv.rent to streamline your rental process.

• What’s A Standard Rental Application?
• What do you need when applying for a rental?
• What Can A Landlord Ask For On A Rental Application In Ontario?
• How Do I Fill Out A Rental Application?
• Ontario Standard Lease Explained
• Frequently Asked Questions: Eviction in Ontario

Data collection methodology

Our monthly rent reports use data from our own liv.rent listings, as well as data our team manually collects from other popular listing sites, covering available basement suites, apartments, condos, townhouses, semi-detached houses, and single-detached houses for each area.

When collecting this data, we exclude luxury properties listed at over $5,000, as well as rooms for rent and shared accommodation. Investing in manual data collection means we consider only the current month’s listings, since we can filter out duplicate listings and older ads that have not been removed.

Another key difference between our data collection methods and those of agencies such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation is that we include only current asking rent prices. Many official reports include data for entire buildings, which tends to skew numbers lower since many units are already occupied and may be rent-controlled or rented well below current rates.

As a Canadian rental platform founded and based in Vancouver, we want to provide a completely accurate depiction of the rental market in the cities we cover.

Rethink the way you rent

Not on liv.rent yet? Experience the ease of digital applications and contracts, verified tenants and landlords, virtual tours, and more, all on one platform. Sign up for free or download the app.

Learn more

Subscribe to receive monthly updates on Canada’s major rental markets. Discover last month’s rent reports below:

Vancouver rent report
Ontario rent report
Montreal rent report
Calgary and Edmonton rent report

The post August 2026 Ontario Rent Report appeared first on liv.rent blog.

Why the Montreal vs Laval cost comparison matters more than ever in 2026

In the Montreal vs Laval cost comparison, Laval is no longer the automatic bargain many renters expect. As of mid-2026, average rent in Laval sits above Montreal’s citywide median, and cross-zone transit adds another cost renters often overlook. Neither city wins outright. The right answer depends on unit size, commute, and whether a car is already part of the budget.

For years, moving off the island of Montreal to Laval was the go-to money-saving move for renters priced out of the city. That assumption no longer holds up cleanly. Zumper’s mid-2026 data puts Laval’s median rent at $2,107 a month, about $187 more than Montreal’s median of $1,920 for roughly the same period. liv.rent’s June 2026 Montreal Rent Report tells a similar story from a different angle: the city’s unfurnished one-bedroom average actually fell to $1,599 a month, down $89 from June 2025 and $37 from the month before. Laval may still make sense for renters who need more space or already own a car, but the rent gap alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor anymore.

Rent prices in Montreal vs Laval: a unit-by-unit breakdown for 2026

Broken down by unit size, the picture gets more nuanced. Laval actually undercuts Montreal on one-bedrooms, but Montreal pulls ahead on two-bedroom and larger units, where family-sized space in Laval carries a real premium.

liv.rent’s own June data, which tracks only current asking rents rather than occupied-unit averages, puts Montreal’s unfurnished one-bedroom average even lower, at $1,599 a month, with furnished units averaging $1,635. The cheapest Montreal neighbourhood this month is Ahuntsic-Cartierville at $1,392, while downtown tops out at $1,783.

Transit costs: the hidden price of living in Laval vs Montreal

Rent is only part of the commute math. Starting July 1, 2026, the ARTM raised transit fares across Greater Montreal by about three percent, a change confirmed by CBC News. A Zone A monthly pass, covering the island of Montreal only, now costs $110. A Zone AB pass, which Laval commuters need to reach Montreal, costs $170, a $60 monthly premium just for crossing the river. Riders who skip transit altogether face a bigger number still: Laval’s suburban layout means many residents rely on a car, and ownership, insurance, and gas routinely add several hundred dollars a month on top of rent. For a renter weighing a move to Laval purely on price, that $60 transit gap, or a car payment, can erase much of the apparent rent savings within a year.

Groceries, utilities, and everyday costs in Montreal and Laval

Everyday costs narrow the gap even further. Numbeo’s comparison of the two cities puts Montreal restaurant prices about 3.9% higher than Laval’s, and Montreal grocery prices about 3.5% higher, both modest differences rather than the dramatic suburban discount some renters expect. CareerBeacon estimates a single renter in Laval spends roughly $500 a month on groceries and $117 on utilities, figures that land close to what a Montreal renter without a car would budget for the same categories. Hydro-Québec’s electricity rates apply across both cities, so utility bills mostly come down to unit size and heating type rather than which side of the Rivière des Prairies a renter lives on.

Quebec rental laws: what renters and landlords need to know in both cities

Whichever city a renter chooses, the legal ground rules stay the same. Both Montreal and Laval fall under the Civil Code of Quebec and the Tribunal administratif du logement, so rent increase guidelines, notice periods, and tenant rights don’t change at the city line. For leases renewing between April 2, 2026, and April 1, 2027, the TAL recommends a base rent increase of 3.1%, down from the 4.5% suggested for leases renewing on or before April 1, 2026. Landlords must give written notice of any increase between three and six months before a twelve-month lease ends, and a tenant who doesn’t respond within a month is considered to have accepted it. Quebec’s rental laws apply identically in both cities, which is one less variable renters need to weigh when comparing Montreal and Laval.

Total monthly budget comparison: living in Montreal vs living in Laval

Adding it all up changes the conversation. CareerBeacon estimates a single renter’s total monthly cost of living in Laval, including rent, transportation, groceries, and other essentials, at around $3,392. Lifemoney.ca’s 2026 analysis puts a comparable Montreal budget at $2,800 to $3,400 a month. The ranges overlap, which means the deciding factor usually isn’t the city itself but the household’s situation. Laval tends to make more sense for a couple or family who needs a larger unit and already owns a car. Montreal tends to win for a single renter who can live car-free near transit and doesn’t need the extra square footage Laval offers.

Where to find Montreal and Laval rentals and make your decision

Once the numbers are on the table, the next step is comparing real, available units rather than averages. Renters can search verified Montreal and Laval listings on liv.rent, filter by budget, unit size, and included utilities, and message landlords directly to confirm what a listing actually includes. Before signing anywhere in Quebec, ask to see Section G of the lease, which discloses the lowest rent paid in the past twelve months for that unit. A landlord who won’t provide it, or a rent that jumps well above that figure without explanation, is worth a second look. Combined with liv.rent’s renter’s guide, Section G gives renters in both cities a clear paper trail before they commit.

Frequently asked questions

The post Montreal vs Laval cost comparison: which city is cheaper in 2026? appeared first on liv.rent blog.

What the 2026 rental market outlook means for landlords

Landlords across Canada are entering 2026 with more competition for tenants than they have seen in years. The national purpose-built vacancy rate reached 3.1% in 2025, according to CMHC’s December 2025 rental market report, up from 2.2% in 2024 and a record low of 1.5% in 2023. RBC Economics expects the rate to climb further this year, which means pricing, tenant retention, and leasing strategy deserve fresh attention.

From a landlord’s market to a balanced market

The jump from 1.5% vacancy in 2023 to 3.1% in 2025 is one of the fastest swings CMHC has recorded, and it signals a shift from a landlord-favoured market toward a more balanced one.

Asking rent versus average rent

Two figures matter here. Asking rent is what a landlord advertises for a vacant unit, and it fell nationally in 2025. Average rent, what tenants are actually paying, still rose 5.1% for a two-bedroom unit, largely because units are repriced higher at turnover. liv.rent’s monthly rent reports track asking rent city by city, adding a more current read between CMHC’s annual surveys.

A third straight year of rising vacancy

RBC Economics projects that 2026 will be the third consecutive year of rising vacancy nationally, with two-bedroom apartment vacancy expected to top 3%, the threshold RBC treats as marking a balanced market, for the first time in about a decade.

What is driving vacancy higher in 2026?

Record rental construction

Housing starts rose nationally in 2025, driven largely by purpose-built rental construction, according to RBC Economics. CMHC’s June 2026 Mid-Year update adds that vacancy is highest in buildings completed after 2020 and in units near post-secondary institutions.

A slower population, a softer demand side

RBC Economics reports that a sharp drop in temporary resident inflows through 2025 pulled national population growth down to roughly 0.9%, with further slowing expected in 2026. Ontario and B.C. landlords are the most exposed, since both provinces have historically absorbed the majority of temporary resident arrivals.

Condo investors entering the rental pool

CMHC’s 2026 Mid-Year Rental Market Update flags investor-owned condo rentals as a source of competition that is currently higher than usual for purpose-built landlords in larger markets, though CMHC expects this pressure to ease as condo completions decline in coming years. For general guidance on leasing and screening, liv.rent’s landlord resources hub covers these topics in depth.

City by city: where vacancy stands for landlords

National figures only tell part of the story. Here is how the largest rental markets compared in CMHC’s 2025 survey.

These figures, along with Montreal and Halifax data, are detailed in CMHC’s December 2025 rental market release. Vacancy in Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area buildings completed since 2000 climbed further still, reaching a five-year high of 5.4% in the first quarter of 2026, according to Urbanation.

What rising vacancy means for landlord strategy

The real cost of turnover

Industry guides put a realistic Toronto turnover, covering four to six weeks of vacancy, cleaning, painting, and a locator fee, at $5,000 to $10,000 or more before lost rent is added in. This figure comes from a landlord education resource rather than CMHC or RBC, so treat it as an illustrative range rather than an official government number.

Screening matters more, not less

A wider applicant pool means more variation in tenant quality. Careful tenant screening protects landlords from non-payment risk even as competition for renters increases.

Pricing: hold, negotiate, or offer incentives

Ontario’s 2026 rent increase guideline is 2.1%, down from 2.5% in 2025, and it applies to units first occupied before November 15, 2018, per Ontario.ca’s residential rent increase guidance. Units occupied on or after that date are exempt from the cap, though 90 days’ written notice is still required. In a softer market like the GTHA, where vacancy hit a five-year high through spring 2026, retaining a good tenant is often worth more than pushing rent to the top of the market.

Incentives and listings: standing out in 2026

What landlords are offering

Urbanation’s Q1 2026 data found 66% of purpose-built rental projects in the GTHA offered incentives, up from 62% a year earlier. Two months of free rent were offered by 47% of projects, up sharply from 32% the year before, while one month free fell to 42% of projects from 53%. Cash move-in bonuses grew to 17% of projects from 10%.

Incentives versus a lower headline rent

After accounting for these incentives, net effective rent in the GTHA averaged $3.52 per square foot in the first quarter of 2026, down 3.8% year over year and the lowest level in 16 quarters. Incentives reduced advertised rents by roughly 13%, or about $379 a month, from $2,904 down to $2,525. Offering a concession tends to protect long-term asking rent better than cutting the sticker price outright.

A listing that still gets noticed

A strong rental listing, with clear photos, accurate amenity details, and transparent pet and parking policies, matters more when renters have options.

Tools and data every landlord should track in 2026

Sources worth bookmarking

CMHC’s Rental Market Survey data tables, updated every October, remain the most authoritative annual snapshot available. Because CMHC surveys only once a year, liv.rent’s monthly rent reports help fill the gap between releases with more current asking rent data.

What the numbers are showing

CMHC’s June 2026 Mid-Year update notes that in Toronto and Vancouver, rents have stabilized at relatively lower vacancy levels, meaning even small vacancy increases can meaningfully ease rent pressure there, while Montreal, Ottawa, and Halifax have seen more gradual transitions. RBC Economics expects average rent increases to slow further, to roughly 3.6% in 2026.

Centralizing the work

A landlord dashboard that combines listings, applications, digital leases, and rent tracking in one place cuts down on the administrative load that turns a short vacancy into a longer, costlier one.

The outlook for the rest of 2026 and into 2027

Will vacancy keep climbing

IBISWorld projects the national vacancy rate will reach 3.7% in 2026, continuing the climb from 2023’s record low, as reduced rental demand meets a wave of new supply.

Where the pendulum could swing back

CMHC expects competition from investor-owned condo rentals to ease as condo completions slow in coming years, while household formation, especially among younger Canadians who are more likely to rent, should keep providing a demand floor through 2026.

The takeaway for landlords

Landlords who prioritize tenant retention, keep up with monthly rent data, and use digital tools for screening and leasing now will be better positioned whenever conditions tighten again. Whatever your market looks like this year, liv.rent’s landlord tools, from tenant screening to digital leases and dashboards, can help you adapt quickly and keep your units occupied.

The post Canadian rental market outlook for landlords: vacancy rate trends to watch in 2026 appeared first on liv.rent blog.

To help you address these concerns, we will share some of the leading management property software that can help you facilitate green rentals. We will also explore some practical strategies for making rental properties more sustainable. 

Top management property software for green rentals

Managing green rentals effectively goes beyond simply implementing energy-efficient upgrades; it requires a comprehensive approach that integrates sustainability into daily operations. The right management property software empowers property owners to track energy consumption, automate green lease management, and monitor progress toward sustainability goals. By offering real-time insights, these solutions help property managers identify areas for improvement, optimize energy use, and reduce operational costs. 

In addition, management property software ensures compliance with industry regulations and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements, so it is easier to stay on track with eco-friendly initiatives.

These are the top management property software that can help you boost efficiency, meet ESG requirements, and future-proof your investments:

liv.rent 

liv.rent is a digital rental platform designed for landlords and property managers looking to implement sustainable practices. It eliminates paperwork with digital lease agreements, reducing paper waste while streamlining the rental process. liv.rent features tenant screening tools, automated rent collection, and energy-efficient unit recommendations. The platform helps landlords attract environmentally conscious renters and easily maintain eco-friendly properties.

Bidium

Bidium focuses on data-driven management property software. It offers robust analytics to track energy consumption and identify areas for sustainability improvements. It also integrates with smart home systems so landlords can remotely monitor and control utilities like heating, cooling, and lighting for optimized efficiency. Bidium includes automated maintenance scheduling for regular servicing of eco-friendly appliances and HVAC systems.

Bidrento

Bidrento specializes in green lease management, making it an ideal choice for property managers prioritizing sustainability. The platform tracks utility consumption and CO2 emissions so landlords can measure and reduce their carbon footprint. It also supports sustainability-focused reporting for managers to stay compliant with green building regulations and ESG standards. Bidrento’s tenant app encourages eco-friendly behavior with its real-time energy usage insights and waste management tips.

Yardi 

Yardi offers comprehensive property management solutions with built-in sustainability tools. Its Voyager and Breeze platforms provide features like energy management, automated sustainability reporting, and smart utility tracking. Yardi helps property managers achieve LEED and ENERGY STAR certifications by monitoring water, gas, and electricity consumption. Moreover, Yardi has smart budgeting and forecasting tools for managers to plan long-term green initiatives effectively.

AppFolio

AppFolio is known for its user-friendly management property software that supports sustainability efforts. It reduces waste by offering digital lease signing, online payment processing, and virtual maintenance requests. AppFolio integrates with IoT devices to monitor and optimize energy consumption in rental units. The platform also has automated communication tools that allow landlords to educate tenants on energy-saving practices for a greener rental community.

How to choose top management property software

The property management software market, valued at $22.05 billion in 2023, is expected to grow significantly, reaching $52.21 billion by 2032. In North America alone, the market was worth $7.93 billion in 2023. 

The right management property software streamlines daily operations, reduces administrative burdens, and enhances tenant satisfaction. It helps property managers automate rent collection, track maintenance, manage leases, and generate reports efficiently. Choosing the best software ensures scalability, security, and compliance, making property management more efficient and future-proof.

By following these steps, you can confidently select a top-tier property management software that optimizes operations, enhances tenant relationships, and drives long-term success:

Define your needs and goals

Start by identifying the type of properties you manage; residential, commercial, or mixed-use and assess whether your prospective software caters to your specific portfolio. Consider essential features like automated lease management, online rent collection, and maintenance tracking to match your operational requirements. You should also set a realistic budget by factoring in potential add-ons and long-term scalability to avoid costly upgrades later.

Research and compare options

Explore reputable review platforms to gather real user feedback on different property management solutions. Seek recommendations from other property managers to understand which software aligns with your industry’s best practices. Along with that, you can review vendor websites to compare pricing, customer support, and integrations so the software you choose meets your long-term needs.

Prioritize essential features

Choose a platform with core functionalities that enhance efficiency and tenant experience. Here are some of the key features you need to look for:

• Tenant and lease management: The management property software must offer centralized lease tracking, automated renewal reminders, and digital lease signing.
• Online rent collection: Opt for software with secure payment processing, automatic invoicing, and integration with accounting software.
• Maintenance tracking: Select a tool that provides work order automation, vendor coordination, and mobile accessibility for on-the-go management.
• Accounting and reporting: Choose software with expense tracking, financial statement generation, and tax preparation tools.
• Communication tools: Pick a management property software that has tenant portals, mass messaging, and automated notifications for better engagement.

Evaluate ease of use and support

A user-friendly interface ensures a smooth onboarding process and reduces training time for staff. Make sure to take advantage of free trials or demos to assess how intuitive the platform is for daily operations. You must investigate the provider’s customer support options, including availability, response times, and training resources, to ensure prompt assistance when needed.

Consider security, compliance, and scalability

Select software with strong security features, like encrypted data storage and user access controls, to protect sensitive information. Ensure it complies with local rental laws and regulations to avoid legal issues. The software should also scale with your business, be able to support more properties, and integrate with tools like smart home technology or energy management systems.

Eco-friendly property management tips to maximize sustainable rentals

As of 2023, there were 296,477 property management businesses operating in the United States, each facing growing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices. Sustainable property management not only reduces environmental impact but also attracts tenants who prioritize sustainability while lowering long-term operational costs.

Implement green initiatives to enhance energy efficiency, create healthier living spaces, and increase property value. Follow these sustainable practices to make your rentals more cost-effective and appealing to eco-conscious tenants:

Enhance energy efficiency

Enhancing energy efficiency reduces utility costs, minimizes environmental impact, and creates a more comfortable living space for tenants. Here’s how you can better support energy efficiency:

• Upgrade to energy-Efficient Appliances. Replace outdated appliances with Energy Star-certified models that consume less power and water to reduce utility costs.
• Switch to LED lighting. LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last significantly longer.

Promote water conservation

Promote water conservation to reduce utility expenses, preserve natural resources, and ensure long-term sustainability for rental properties. You can try the following:

• Use low-flow fixtures. Install water-efficient toilets, showerheads, and faucets to significantly reduce water consumption without affecting performance.
• Fix leaks promptly. Regularly inspect pipes and plumbing to prevent water waste due to leaks or inefficient fixtures.

Implement Waste Management Practices

Waste management practices minimize landfill waste, reduce environmental impact, and create a cleaner, more sustainable rental property. Consider these steps to manage waste properly:

• Set up recycling programs. Provide clear signage and designated recycling bins for tenants to encourage proper waste sorting.
• Introduce composting. Offer composting solutions for organic waste to reduce landfill contributions and create a natural fertilizer for green spaces.

Use sustainable materials

Using sustainable materials reduces environmental impact, enhances durability, and appeals to eco-conscious tenants seeking greener living spaces. Adopt the following practices to promote sustainability:

• Choose eco-friendly building materials. Opt for recycled, non-toxic, and sustainable materials during renovations of property and repairs to reduce environmental impact.
• Use low-VOC paints and finishes. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in conventional paints can harm indoor air quality, while low-VOC alternatives provide a safer environment.

Engage tenants in sustainability efforts

Sustainability helps foster a commitment to eco-friendly living, reduces resource waste, and enhances community well-being. Here’s how you can engage tenants in sustainability efforts:

• Educate tenants. Provide resources on how to conserve energy and water, recycle properly, and adopt eco-friendly habits.
• Offer green incentives. Reward tenants who participate in energy-saving programs. This can be discounts on utilities or rent reductions.

Go green for more profitable properties

Management property software can support sustainability by streamlining energy tracking, automating green lease management, and promoting eco-friendly tenant engagement. As the world ages, we must take action to preserve it for future generations. Now is the time to adopt green technologies and embrace environmental responsibility. By doing so, you will attract the right tenants, increase property value, and boost long-term profitability, all while caring for the planet.

Rethink The Way You Rent

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The post Eco-Friendly Property Management: Management Property Software for Green Rentals appeared first on liv.rent blog.