Immigrating to a new country can be exciting yet challenging, especially when it comes to finding affordable and safe housing. For newcomers to Canada, securing temporary accommodation is often the first step toward settling down. Whether you’re waiting to rent a permanent place, searching for a job, or attending orientation sessions, temporary housing can provide comfort and stability during your transition.
Canada offers a wide range of housing options to suit different budgets and needs. In this article, we’ll explore the top budget-friendly temporary housing options for immigrants in Canada, highlighting their benefits, costs, and tips on how to find them.
1. Hostels
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.
Cost:
$25–$60 CAD per night (depending on location and season)
Benefits:
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Very affordable
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Flexible booking (daily or weekly)
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Often include free Wi-Fi, shared kitchens, and laundry facilities
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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:
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HI Canada (Hostelling International)
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Samesun Hostels
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The Planet Traveler (Toronto)
2. Shared Rentals and Roommates
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:
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Lower monthly costs than full rentals
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Access to furnished rooms
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Bills often included (internet, electricity, etc.)
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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:
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Kijiji.ca
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Facebook Marketplace
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Craigslist
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Roomies.ca
3. Temporary Airbnb Rentals
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:
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Fully furnished and private
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Utilities and Wi-Fi included
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Flexible check-in/check-out
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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.
4. Settlement Organization Housing
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:
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Safe and community-oriented
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Guidance from professionals on finding permanent housing
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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:
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YMCA Newcomer Services
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COSTI Immigrant Services (Ontario)
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Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS)
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MOSAIC (Vancouver)
5. Student Housing (For Immigrant Students)
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:
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Safe and structured environment
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Includes internet, utilities, and furnishings
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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.
6. Homestay Programs
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:
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Cultural immersion
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Meals and basic services included
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Safe family environment
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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:
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Canada Homestay Network
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Local ESL programs or language schools
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School and university programs
7. Co-Living Spaces
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:
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Modern, fully-furnished spaces
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Short leases and flexibility
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Great community experience
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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:
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The Collective
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Node Living
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Sonder (long-term stays)
8. Temporary Shelters (Last Resort)
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:
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Emergency support
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Connection to social services and housing programs
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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.
Final Tips for Finding Budget-Friendly Temporary Housing
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Start Early: Begin your search before arriving in Canada to secure the best deals.
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Use Multiple Platforms: Look on Facebook groups, Kijiji, Airbnb, and settlement agency websites.
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Beware of Scams: Never send money before seeing the place or verifying the landlord.
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Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to contact newcomer agencies or local community groups for housing leads.
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Consider Location: Staying slightly outside downtown areas can drastically reduce costs.
Conclusion
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.
