Affordability is at the center of Canada’s changing rental landscape. In this issue, we look at how economic shifts and rent trends are shaping the market in 2025.
📊 Affordability Snapshot
According to SingleKey’s 2025 Average Rent-to-Income and Rental Price data, Canadians are feeling the squeeze of higher housing costs across most provinces and major cities.
By Province:
|
Province |
Rent-to-Income Ratio |
Average Rent Price |
|
BC |
33.9% |
$2,490 |
|
Alberta |
29.5% |
$1,868 |
|
Prairies |
30.2% |
$1,683 |
|
Ontario |
33.5% |
$2,158 |
|
Quebec |
32.9% |
$1,623 |
|
Maritimes |
32.5% |
$1,889 |
By City:
|
City |
Rent-to-Income Ratio |
Average Rent Price |
|
Vancouver |
35.6% |
$2,891 |
|
Calgary |
27.7% |
$2,027 |
|
Winnipeg |
26.0% |
$1,713 |
|
Toronto |
30.6% |
$2,581 |
|
Montreal |
32.2% |
$1,604 |
|
Halifax |
34.1% |
$2,145 |
📌 Key Insights
- Rent affordability pressures are intensifying in major markets.
Vancouver, Halifax, and Montreal renters now spend over one-third of their income on rent. These cities continue to top the list of least affordable housing markets in the country. - Ontario and BC lead in high rents and tight margins.
Both provinces face the highest average rental prices and thinnest affordability ratios in Canada — signaling strong demand and limited supply. - Affordability advantage shifts westward.
Alberta and the Prairies remain the most balanced markets, offering the best rent-to-income ratios for tenants seeking relief from high costs.
🏡 What This Means for Tenants and Owners
The truth is — affordability challenges are reshaping where Canadians choose to live. While some regions face record-high rents, others are emerging as more sustainable alternatives for renters and investors alike.
At MU Property Management Ltd., we’re closely monitoring these trends to help both tenants and property owners adapt to the evolving market — ensuring communities stay balanced, livable, and well-managed.