10 BEST Rental Sites in Canada for Apartments, Condos, and Houses

Are you struggling to find a place to live in Canada? Whether you need an apartment, condo, or house, searching for rentals as a newcomer can feel overwhelming.

You might not know where to start or which platforms to trust. This article breaks down the best rental websites in Canada to help you find your next home.

These websites are easy to use, reliable, and full of options for every budget and need. Let’s get started so you can find your perfect rental today.

Why Use Rental Sites to Find Apartments, Condos, and Houses in Canada?

Rental sites make the process faster and easier. Instead of walking around neighborhoods or relying on word-of-mouth, you can browse hundreds of listings online.

You can filter by location, price, and property type. Many platforms also include photos, virtual tours, and detailed descriptions to help you decide without leaving your home.

What Are The Top 10 Rental Websites in Canada?

1. Realtor.ca

Realtor.ca is one of the most trusted rental websites in Canada. It is operated by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), ensuring listings are reliable and verified.

The platform offers a wide range of rental options, including apartments, condos, and houses, making it an essential tool for newcomers to Canada.

Realtor.ca also highlights properties for sale, which is helpful if you plan to transition from renting to owning in the future.

Key Features:

• Verified property listings from licensed real estate agents.
• Interactive map to explore neighborhoods and amenities.
• Detailed property descriptions, high-quality photos, and sometimes 3D tours.

Pros:

• Reliable and safe to use.
• Covers all cities and provinces across Canada.
• A professional platform with accurate and up-to-date listings.

Cons:

• Limited options for short-term rentals.
• Focused heavily on long-term leases.

Best For: Newcomers looking for high-quality, verified listings with professional oversight and those considering both rental and purchase options.

2. RentCanada.com

RentCanada.com is a user-friendly platform designed to simplify your rental search. It features a wide variety of listings, from apartments and condos to houses, across cities and smaller towns in Canada.

The platform is easy to navigate, making it an excellent choice for newcomers unfamiliar with the Canadian rental market.

Landlord contact details are included with most listings, allowing you to connect directly.

Key Features:

• Simple search filters for price, location, and amenities.
• Listings for apartments, condos, and houses.
• Includes detailed property descriptions and photos.

Pros:

• Covers both urban and rural areas.
• Easy-to-use interface with quick search results.
• Straightforward communication with landlords.

Cons:

• Fewer listings than larger platforms like Realtor.ca or Rentals.ca.
• Limited additional tools or features, such as rental calculators.

Best For: Renters looking for a mix of city and small-town options with an easy search experience.

3. PadMapper

PadMapper is one of the best rental websites Ontario residents and renters across Canada can use for its visual, map-based approach.

It combines listings from multiple sources, giving users access to a wide variety of options in one place.

The platform focuses on simplicity, making it easy to find rentals in specific neighborhoods or cities.

Key Features:

• Interactive map to search by neighborhood or city.
• Filters for key criteria like price, pet policies, and furnished units.
• Listings for apartments, condos, and houses.

Pros:

• Easy location-based search using the map feature.
• Aggregates listings from other platforms, saving time.
• Ideal for renters focused on location and amenities.

Cons:

• Some duplicate listings due to aggregation.
• Limited landlord verification options.

Best For: Renters who want a visual, location-first approach to finding rentals, especially in cities like Toronto or Vancouver.

4. Zumper

Zumper has become one of the best rental property listing sites for renters in Canada due to its fast, modern interface and helpful features.

It allows users to apply for rentals directly on the platform, making the process faster and more convenient.

Zumper offers a variety of listings, including apartments, condos, and houses, in both major cities and smaller towns.

Key Features:

• Instant Apply feature to submit applications quickly.
• Listings for both short-term and long-term rentals.
• Mobile app for on-the-go searching.

Pros:

• Great for renters in competitive markets.
• User-friendly interface with fast search results.
• Includes tools for budgeting and rental applications.

Cons:

• Limited coverage in rural or less populated areas.
• Some listings may lack detailed descriptions.

Best For: Renters in high-demand cities who need to act quickly and prefer an easy, tech-savvy platform.

5. Rentals.ca

Rentals.ca is one of the most comprehensive Canadian rental sites, with thousands of listings across the country.

It is especially popular for its detailed property descriptions and neighborhood insights.

This platform is ideal for renters who want to make informed decisions based on factors like nearby schools, transit, and average rent trends.

Key Features:

• Extensive listings for apartments, condos, and houses.
• Rent trend data and neighborhood guides.
• Filters for price, square footage, pet policies, and more.

Pros:

• Covers both major cities and smaller towns.
• Provides helpful information about neighborhoods.
• Easy-to-use interface with accurate data.

Cons:

• Fewer private landlord listings compared to Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace.
• May lack options for very rural areas.

Best For: Renters who want detailed information about properties and neighborhoods, making it a great choice for families or newcomers.

6. Kijiji.ca

Kijiji.ca is one of the most popular websites for finding affordable rentals. It offers a large variety of listings, including apartments, condos, houses, and even rooms for rent.

Many private landlords use Kijiji.ca to advertise their properties, making it a good option for budget-conscious renters.

Key Features:

• Listings directly from landlords and property managers.
• Wide range of property types, from rooms to full houses.
• Search filters for location, price, and property features.

Pros:

• Great for finding budget-friendly rentals.
• Easy to connect directly with landlords.
• Ideal for unique or independent options.

Cons:

• Listings are not always verified, increasing the risk of scams.
• Requires careful screening of landlords and properties.

Best For: Renters looking for affordable options or direct landlord communication while staying cautious about scams.

7. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is increasingly popular for finding local rentals.

Many landlords and property managers post listings directly on this platform, making it an easy option for renters looking for apartments, houses, or rooms in their area.

Key Features:

• Localized listings for apartments, condos, and houses.
• Direct messaging with landlords through Facebook Messenger.
• Easy access to rental listings through social media.

Pros:

• Quick setup and no account registration required beyond Facebook.
• Great for finding last-minute or short-term rentals.
• Often includes photos and descriptions.

Cons:

• Listings are not verified, requiring renters to exercise caution.
• Limited filtering options compared to dedicated rental platforms.

Best For: Renters seeking quick, local options and those comfortable communicating directly with landlords.

8. Craigslist Canada

Craigslist Canada is a basic but effective option for renters on a budget. It features a wide variety of listings, including apartments, houses, and rooms, often at more affordable prices.

However, Craigslist requires caution due to the lack of verification on listings.

Key Features:

• Straightforward, no-frills interface.
• Listings for all property types, including furnished and short-term rentals.
• Direct landlord contact for quick inquiries.

Pros:

• Affordable rental options.
• Wide selection of property types.
• Flexible terms, including short-term rentals.

Cons:

• High risk of scams and fake listings.
• Minimal search filters or advanced tools.

Best For: Budget-conscious renters who are experienced with spotting reliable listings.

9. Airbnb

Airbnb is one of the best rental websites Ontario and other provinces can use for short-term housing. It is perfect for newcomers who need temporary, furnished accommodations while settling in Canada.

Many Airbnb hosts also offer discounts for longer stays.

Key Features:

• Fully furnished properties with flexible lease terms.
• Reviews from previous renters for added insights.
• Options for private rooms or entire homes.

Pros:

• Ideal for short-term or transitional housing.
• Easy booking process with upfront pricing.
• Includes utilities and furniture in most rentals.

Cons:

• Higher costs compared to traditional rentals.
• Limited options for long-term leases.

Best For: Newcomers who need temporary housing while finding permanent accommodations.

10. Liv.rent

Liv.rent is a secure, digital-first rental website Canada renters can trust. It focuses on providing verified listings from landlords and property managers, ensuring a safe and seamless rental process.

The platform also offers tools like digital contracts and secure payments.

Key Features:

• Verified landlord and tenant profiles.
• Digital lease agreements and payment options.
• Listings for apartments, condos, and houses.

Pros:

• High safety standards for renters.
• Modern and user-friendly platform.
• Great for international renters and newcomers.

Cons:

• Limited coverage in smaller towns or rural areas.

Best For: Tech-savvy renters looking for a secure and convenient rental experience.

How to Choose the Best Rental Site for Your Needs

Choosing the right rental site is essential to finding the perfect apartment, condo, or house in Canada.

Different platforms cater to different needs, so understanding what to look for can save you time and effort.

Here’s how to evaluate rental sites and make the most of your search.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Platform

To find the best rental website for your needs, start by identifying your specific requirements. Here are the key factors to consider:

Property Type

Think about whether you need an apartment, condo, or house. Some platforms specialize in certain property types.

For example, Realtor.ca focuses on long-term rentals and houses, while Airbnb is better for short-term, furnished options.

Budget and Rental Price Trends

Determine your budget and research average rental prices in your desired location. Websites like Rentals.ca provide insights into price trends, which can help you avoid overpaying.

Location

Decide if you want to live in a city, suburb, or rural area. Platforms like PadMapper allow you to search visually by neighborhood, making it easy to see what’s available in your preferred area.

Type of Rental

Are you looking for a long-term lease, short-term rental, or temporary housing? Some platforms, like Zumper, offer options for all three, while others focus on specific rental durations.

Pro Tip: Use platforms with verified listings, like Liv.rent, if safety and reliability are your top priorities.

Comparing Features Across Platforms

Not all rental sites are created equal. Comparing the features of different platforms can help you find the one that works best for you. Here are some essential features to look for:

• Search Filters and Tools: The best rental websites, such as Rentals.ca, offer advanced filters for price, number of bedrooms, pet policies, and more. Use these tools to narrow down your search quickly.
• Neighborhood Insights and Data: Platforms like Realtor.ca and Rentals.ca provide details on nearby schools, transit, and amenities, which are especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Canadian neighborhoods.
• Mobile App Availability: If you’re frequently on the go, consider using platforms with user-friendly mobile apps, like Zumper or PadMapper. These apps make it easy to browse listings and contact landlords from your phone.

Pro Tip: Prioritize platforms with interactive maps, such as PadMapper, if location is your main concern.

Tips for First-Time Users

If you’re new to rental platforms or Canada’s rental market, the following tips can help you navigate the process more effectively:

• How to Navigate Rental Platforms: Start by creating a free account on platforms like RentCanada.com or Liv.rent. This will allow you to save listings, set up alerts for new properties, and communicate with landlords directly.
• Creating Wish Lists of Must-Have Amenities: Make a list of features you can’t live without (e.g., parking, pet-friendly, furnished). Use these as filters when searching to avoid wasting time on unsuitable properties.
• Contacting Landlords and Scheduling Viewings: Always message landlords through the platform to keep a record of your communication. If possible, schedule in-person or virtual viewings to verify the property’s condition before committing.

Pro Tip: Be prepared with documents like proof of income, references, and a credit report when applying for rentals. Landlords in Canada often require these to approve tenants.

By considering your needs, comparing platform features, and following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best rental site for your situation.

Rental Scams: How to Stay Safe Online

Rental scams are a common concern for newcomers to Canada. Fraudsters often target renters unfamiliar with the rental market, so it’s essential to know the warning signs and how to protect yourself.

Below is a brief overview of the most common scams and how to avoid them. For a detailed guide, check out our articles on Most Commom Rental Scams in Canada and How to Avoid Canadian Rental Scams.

Common Rental Scams in Canada

Keep an eye out for these red flags when searching for rentals:

• Fake Listings with Stolen Images: Scammers post fake ads using stolen photos to lure renters.
• Deposits Without Viewings: Never pay a deposit before seeing the property in person or through a verified virtual tour.
• Too-Good-to-Be-True Prices: Be cautious of listings priced far below market value.

Tips to Avoid Rental Scams

• Use Trusted Platforms: Stick to verified platforms like Realtor.ca, Liv.rent, or Rentals.ca.
• Verify Listings: Always confirm the property exists by visiting it or requesting a live virtual tour.
• Research the Landlord: Check the landlord’s contact details and credentials before making any payments.

Pro Tip: If a landlord pressures you to send money quickly, it’s likely a scam.

Frequently Asked Questions