Settle in Toronto.
Canada’s biggest job market and its most diverse city, with the highest rents to match.
What Toronto costs each month.
Typical ranges for a newcomer renting. Your costs depend on neighbourhood and household.
| Item | Monthly estimate |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom rent | $2,100–$2,500 |
| 2-bedroom rent | $2,700–$3,200 |
| Transit (TTC monthly fare cap) | about $155 |
| Groceries per adult | $400–$500 |
| Phone plan | $35–65 |
TTC monthly passes ended August 31, 2026; trips are now free after 47 PRESTO or card fares ($3.30 each) in a month. Rent ranges sit around average asking rents from the Rentals.ca/Urbanation National Rent Report (July–August 2026); individual listings vary widely by neighbourhood and building. Transit: TTC fares (2026 adult fares). Groceries, phone, utilities and internet are SettleCanada estimates. Checked September 2026.
Where newcomers live in Toronto.
A starting point, not a ranking. Visit before you sign a lease.
Scarborough
East Toronto. Large Tamil, Filipino, Chinese and South Asian communities, with lower rents than downtown.
North York
Subway access, high-rise rentals and a big Korean, Iranian and Filipino presence around Bathurst and Wilson.
Brampton & Mississauga
West of Toronto. One of Canada’s largest South Asian communities; more space for families.
Markham & Richmond Hill
North of Toronto. Strong Chinese community and good schools; you’ll likely need GO transit or a car.
What Toronto runs on.
The biggest employers and sectors. Regulated professions need a provincial licence.
Renting in Toronto.
Expect competition for good units. Start with a short-term stay, view places in person, and never pay a deposit before verifying the landlord. Health coverage in Ontario is through OHIP.
Settlement services
- Find free newcomer services near you (IRCC)
- Settlement.Org (Ontario newcomer information)
- 211 Ontario: call or text 2-1-1 for local services
Free, government-funded agencies help with housing, jobs, language classes and forms.
Communities in Toronto.
Guides for newcomers from these countries include local community groups and tips.
Indian community
Filipino community
Sri Lankan community
Chinese community
Nigerian communityYour first 30 days in Toronto.
The same steps as everywhere in Canada, with the local details filled in.
Toronto · first 30 days
- Apply for your SIN at Service Canada
- Open a bank account
- Get a PRESTO card
- Apply for OHIP
- Visit a local settlement agency
- Sign a lease after viewing the unit
Settling in Toronto?
One practical email a week, with local tips.
