Canada’s Most In-Demand Rental Markets
As home prices remain high and inventory remains tight, renting continues to be the preferred choice for many Canadians. A recent report by RentCafe shows shifting interest across the country, with some unexpected cities climbing the ranks. Here are the top 10 most sought-after cities for renters in 2025:
1. Winnipeg, MB – Canada’s #1 Rental Hotspot
Holding the top spot, Winnipeg remains the most in-demand city for apartment seekers. Known for its affordability and job opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and education, the city attracts renters both locally and from Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver.
2. Edmonton, AB – The Most Popular Major City for Renters
With a strong economy and lower rental prices compared to other big cities, Edmonton is attracting renters from across Canada. It leads the rankings in favorited apartments and saved searches, signaling strong rental demand.
3. Victoria, BC – The West Coast Favorite
Victoria’s walkability, community vibe, and coastal lifestyle make it a prime destination for young professionals and remote workers. While rental prices remain high, demand is fueled by renters from Vancouver and Oak Bay looking for alternatives.
4. Ottawa, ON – Steady Demand in Canada’s Capital
The government and tech job market keeps Ottawa a top choice for renters, particularly from Toronto and Montréal. With fewer available listings, renters are acting fast to secure their preferred units.
5. Halifax, NS – East Coast Growth Hub
Halifax climbs six spots due to increased rental interest, driven by university students, tech workers, and newcomers to Canada. It ranks 4th for favorited apartments, showing renters are carefully choosing their homes.
6. Moncton, NB – Fastest-Rising Rental Market
Moncton makes the biggest jump, climbing 19 spots in renter interest. The city’s affordable cost of living, bilingual job opportunities, and prime location in the Maritimes make it increasingly attractive to renters from Toronto, Halifax, and Dieppe.
7. Kingston, ON – A Rising Ontario Destination
Known for its mix of affordability, job opportunities, and top-tier universities, Kingston is attracting renters from Toronto, Montréal, and Ottawa. A drop in available listings has intensified competition for apartments.
8. Niagara Falls, ON – Affordable & Well-Connected
Despite a small increase in listings, demand remains high in Niagara Falls, especially from Greater Toronto Area commuters looking for more affordable rental options.
9. Oshawa, ON – A Commuter’s Dream
With easy access to Toronto via Highway 401 and GO Transit, Oshawa is surging in rental interest. The city has one of the highest favorited listing rates, suggesting renters are locking in leases quickly.
10. Nanaimo, BC – Vancouver Island’s Rental Hotspot
A more affordable alternative to Victoria and Vancouver, Nanaimo remains highly desirable, especially for renters from mainland BC and the Tri-Cities area.
Conclusion: Shift Toward Smaller Cities
While Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal remain rental mainstays, interest is shifting toward smaller, more affordable cities with strong job markets. Cities like Moncton, Oshawa, and Kingston are proving increasingly attractive to budget-conscious renters looking for job opportunities and quality of life.
Canada Housing Market 
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