Renting in Toronto as a New Immigrant: Current Rents and Scam Warnings (2026)

Last reviewed: 25 October 2026. Asking rents are listing prices, not final lease amounts.

Toronto is expensive, and new immigrants often see adverts for apartments that are too good to be true. This guide shows current rent levels and how to protect yourself.

Quick answer

  • One-bedroom average asking rent in October 2026 was $2,262 a month (median $2,250). Two-bedroom averaged $2,930 and three-bedroom $3,674.
  • Lower prices are found outside downtown. The source suggests Scarborough, North York and Etobicoke.
  • Basement units are estimated by the same site at about $1,400 to $2,400 for a one-bedroom. That is the site’s own estimate, not an official average.
  • Visit in person before signing any lease.

Average asking rent

TypeAverageMedian
One bedroom$2,262$2,250
Two bedroom$2,930$2,750
Three bedroom$3,674$3,500

Source: Door Insight data published by Moving2Canada, updated 5 October 2026.

Plan your first months

  • Book temporary housing for the first weeks so you can view units in person.
  • Budget for utilities, tenant insurance, parking and internet on top of rent.
  • Look at shared rooms to reduce your first-year costs.

Rental scams to watch for

  • A unit priced far below similar apartments.
  • A landlord who is “out of the country” and asks you to send a deposit.
  • Pressure to pay before you see the apartment.

Ontario deposit and tenancy rules are set by the province. Check the official Ontario government tenant information before you pay any deposit, since we did not verify the details for this guide.

Red flags and scams

  • Anyone asking you to pay for a job offer, a work permit or a “guaranteed” visa.
  • Job adverts with very high pay for beginners, or no interview.
  • Contact only through WhatsApp, Telegram or a free email address with no company website or address.
  • Fake government sites. Use only the official government website of the country.

If you think you have been targeted, stop paying, keep all messages and receipts, and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. You can also email us at info@careerjobss.com.

Sources and references

This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules, fees and thresholds change often. Always confirm the current position on Canada.ca and the Ontario government website or with a regulated adviser before making decisions. Corrections are welcome at info@careerjobss.com.

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