Overview:
Hostels are a popular choice for travelers and new immigrants looking for short-term, affordable lodging. They are often located in major cities and are designed to be both social and cost-effective.
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Cost:
$25–$60 CAD per night (depending on location and season)
Benefits:
Very affordable
Flexible booking (daily or weekly)
Often include free Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and laundry facilities
Good for meeting other newcomers or travelers
Recommended For:
Solo immigrants or young adults who don’t mind shared rooms and are looking for short-term stays in urban areas.
Examples:
HI Canada (Hostelling International)
Samesun Hostels
The Planet Traveler (Toronto)
Overview:
Many immigrants choose to rent a room in a shared house or apartment. This option helps reduce costs significantly and often includes utilities in the rent.
Cost:
$400–$800 CAD per month, depending on city and neighborhood
Benefits:
Lower monthly costs than full rentals
Access to furnished rooms
Bills often included (internet, electricity, etc.)
Short-term leases are available
Recommended For:
Individuals or couples on a tight budget who are okay with sharing common areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
Where to Find:
Kijiji.ca
Facebook Marketplace
Craigslist
Roomies.ca
Overview:
While Airbnb is often thought of for vacationers, it’s also a practical short-term housing option for immigrants, especially families who need privacy or furnished spaces.
Cost:
$1,200–$2,000 CAD/month (prices vary by location and apartment type)
Benefits:
Fully furnished and private
Utilities and Wi-Fi included
Flexible check-in/check-out
Great for families or small groups
Recommended For:
Newcomers who want a soft landing in a comfortable, private environment while they search for long-term housing.
Tip:
Book for a month at a time for discounted rates and negotiate with hosts directly for lower prices if you plan to stay longer.
Overview:
Canadian government and nonprofit settlement agencies often help immigrants with initial housing. Some provide temporary accommodation or help connect immigrants with affordable rentals.
Cost:
Free to low-cost (based on income or immigration status)
Benefits:
Safe and community-oriented
Guidance from professionals on finding permanent housing
Can include meals, support services, and interpretation
Recommended For:
Refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants needing extra support in their first few weeks or months.
Organizations Offering This Support:
YMCA Newcomer Services
COSTI Immigrant Services (Ontario)
Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS)
MOSAIC (Vancouver)
Overview:
If you’re an international student or newly arrived immigrant studying in Canada, you can apply for student housing through your institution. This housing is usually cheaper and located near campus.
Cost:
$500–$900 CAD per month
Benefits:
Safe and structured environment
Includes internet, utilities, and furnishings
Opportunity to meet fellow students
Recommended For:
International students, temporary residents, or immigrants enrolled in academic or training programs.
Tip:
Apply early as spots fill up fast, especially in large universities like University of Toronto, McGill, or UBC.
Overview:
Homestay involves living with a Canadian family who offers a room, meals, and support. It’s a great way to adjust to the culture and improve your English or French skills.
Cost:
$700–$1,000 CAD per month (includes meals)
Benefits:
Cultural immersion
Meals and basic services included
Safe family environment
Helpful for immigrants who don’t have local contacts
Recommended For:
Younger immigrants, students, and those new to Canadian customs and language.
Where to Find:
Canada Homestay Network
Local ESL programs or language schools
School and university programs
Overview:
A growing trend in Canadian cities, co-living offers private bedrooms with shared kitchens, lounges, and workspaces in modern, furnished buildings.
Cost:
$700–$1,500 CAD per month
Benefits:
Modern, fully-furnished spaces
Short leases and flexibility
Great community experience
Amenities like cleaning, laundry, and Wi-Fi included
Recommended For:
Professionals, digital nomads, or immigrants who prefer urban living and want comfort without the hassle of traditional rentals.
Examples:
The Collective
Node Living
Sonder (long-term stays)
Overview:
Shelters are designed for people in urgent need of housing, including immigrants facing homelessness. These facilities offer short-term beds and meals while helping residents find more stable accommodations.
Cost:
Free
Benefits:
Emergency support
Connection to social services and housing programs
Safe and monitored environment
Recommended For:
Immigrants in crisis situations with no other housing options.
Note:
This should only be considered as a last resort.
Start Early: Begin your search before arriving in Canada to secure the best deals.
Use Multiple Platforms: Look on Facebook groups, Kijiji, Airbnb, and settlement agency websites.
Beware of Scams: Never send money before seeing the place or verifying the landlord.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to contact newcomer agencies or local community groups for housing leads.
Consider Location: Staying slightly outside downtown areas can drastically reduce costs.
Canada welcomes thousands of immigrants every year, and while the journey to settling in a new country can be overwhelming, finding a temporary place to stay shouldn’t be. From hostels and shared rentals to settlement housing and homestays, there are a variety of budget-friendly temporary housing options to meet every need.
The key is to choose a place that offers safety, affordability, and convenience as you build your new life. With careful planning and access to the right resources, your transition to Canada can be smooth, comfortable, and full of new opportunities.
Are you preparing to move to Canada? Start your search early and reach out to settlement services in your destination city. They’re ready to help you land safely and affordably.