5 Best Options for Short-Term Housing You Might Not Have Considered in Canada

Are you a newcomer to Canada looking for short-term housing? You’re not alone! With over 400,000 new permanent residents welcomed annually, finding temporary accommodation is a common challenge. But don’t worry – Canada offers a variety of unique short-term housing options that you might not have considered yet.

Whether you’re here for work, study, or to start a new life, having a comfortable place to stay while you settle in is crucial. Traditional options like hotels or month-to-month rentals are well-known, but they can be expensive or hard to find.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 5 best options for short-term housing in Canada that might surprise you!

From immersive cultural experiences to budget-friendly alternatives, these options cater specifically to newcomers like you. Let’s explore these hidden gems that could make your transition to Canadian life smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Homestays with Canadian Families

Imagine stepping off the plane and into a warm Canadian home. Homestays offer newcomers a unique opportunity to live with a local family, providing an immersive introduction to Canadian culture and daily life.

Benefits of cultural immersion:

• Rapid language improvement through daily conversation
• Insider knowledge about your new city or town
• Built-in support system as you navigate your new surroundings

To find reputable homestay programs, consider these options:

• Canada Homestay Network
• Homestay.com
• Local immigrant support organizations

What to expect in a typical homestay arrangement:

• Private bedroom in a family home
• Shared common areas like kitchen and living room
• Often includes meals, perfect for those unfamiliar with local grocery shopping
• House rules to respect, such as quiet hours or shared chore responsibilities

Pro tip: Before committing, have a video call with potential host families to ensure a good fit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about daily routines, dietary restrictions, or cultural practices.

2. Extended Stay Hotels and Apart-Hotels

When you need more space and amenities than a traditional hotel room, extended stay hotels and apart-hotels can be a perfect solution for newcomers to Canada.

Advantages for newcomers:

• Fully furnished spaces with kitchen facilities
• Flexible booking periods, from a few weeks to several months
• Services like housekeeping and laundry facilities
• No need for utility setups or long-term commitments

Popular chains in major Canadian cities:

• Residence Inn by Marriott
• Staybridge Suites
• Sandman Suites

Cost comparison

While typically pricier than long-term rentals, extended stay options can be more economical than regular hotels for stays longer than a week. They also eliminate the need for immediate furniture purchases or utility deposits.

Accommodation Type	Average Monthly Cost (1 Bedroom)
Regular Hotel	$3000 – $4500
Extended Stay Hotel	$2000 – $3500
Long-term Apartment Rental	$1200 – $2500

Pro tip: Look for promotional rates for longer stays, and don’t hesitate to negotiate prices for multi-month bookings.

You can also learn about Temporary housing in Canada in this article.

3. University and College Residences

Did you know that many Canadian universities and colleges open their doors to the public during summer months? This little-known option can be a goldmine for newcomers, especially those arriving between May and August.

Availability during summer months:

• Most institutions offer accommodations from May to August
• Some may have year-round availability for non-students

Benefits for newcomers:

• Affordable rates compared to hotels
• Access to campus facilities like gyms, libraries, and cafeterias
• Opportunities to meet other newcomers and students
• Often located in central areas with good public transport links

How to book accommodations even if you’re not a student:

1. Check university websites for “summer accommodations” or “short-term stay” options
2. Contact the housing office directly via email or phone
3. Look for listings on platforms like Places4Students.com

Pro tip: Book early, as these accommodations can fill up quickly, especially in popular student cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

4. Short-Term Rental Platforms Beyond Airbnb

While Airbnb is well-known, there are several other platforms catering specifically to newcomers and longer-term stays in Canada.

Lesser-known platforms to consider:

• Kijiji (Canada’s version of Craigslist)
• Sabbatical Homes (great for academic visitors)
• Sublet.com
• PadMapper

Tips for finding safe and reliable options

• Always communicate through the platform’s messaging system
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true
• Ask for video tours if you can’t visit in person
• Read reviews carefully and look for hosts experienced with newcomers

Potential cost savings

Many of these platforms offer monthly discounts, making them more affordable than nightly Airbnb rates or hotel stays for longer periods.

Pro tip: Some platforms allow you to filter for “newcomer-friendly” listings or hosts who speak multiple languages, which can be incredibly helpful as you settle in.

5. Co-living Spaces and Shared Housing

Co-living is a growing trend in Canadian cities, offering a modern twist on traditional shared housing. These spaces are designed to foster community and can be an excellent option for newcomers looking to build a social network quickly.

Benefits for networking and community building:

• Common areas designed for socializing and working
• Organized events and activities for residents
• Opportunities to meet locals and other newcomers
• Often include amenities like cleaning services and high-speed internet

How to find and apply for co-living arrangements:

• Check platforms like Sonder, Roost, or Sociable Living
• Look for Facebook groups dedicated to co-living in your target city
• Some real estate agencies now specialize in co-living placements

Pro tip: Many co-living spaces offer short-term leases, perfect for newcomers still exploring their long-term housing options.

Conclusion

As a newcomer to Canada, your short-term housing choice can significantly impact your initial experience in this welcoming country.

These 5 unique options – homestays, extended stay hotels, university residences, alternative rental platforms, and co-living spaces – offer flexibility, community, and often a more authentic Canadian experience than traditional choices.

Remember, the best option for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and goals. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these options as your situation evolves. For example, you might start with a homestay to get oriented, then move to a co-living space as you build your social network.

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