One-Third of Renters Spend More Than Half Their Income on Rent: Survey

A Winter 2025 Renter Feedback Survey from Rentals.ca has revealed that affordability pressures continue across Canada’s rental market.

Based on responses from a total of 503 renters across the nation, the survey highlights how rising rents, constant rent increases, and mismatched budgets continue to shape renter behaviour across markets and age groups.

More than six in ten renters, or 62 per cent say over 30 per cent of their net income goes toward rent, while one-third report spending more than half of their income on housing.

In Toronto, affordability pressures are even more pronounced, with 70 per cent of renters reporting that more than 30 per cent of their income goes toward rent, compared with 60 per cent in other markets.

The survey noted that ongoing rent increases are compounding affordability pressures. Almost two-thirds of renters, or 63 per cent, report their rent has increased since the summer, adding strain for renters already dedicating a large share of their income to housing.

High rent prices dominated the rental search experience for respondents, according to the survey. When asked about their biggest challenge, 69 per cent of renters cited high rent prices, which far surpassed concerns about supply, listing quality, or scams. The survey noted that this pattern appears consistently across regions, reinforcing that affordability challenges are national in scope.

The survey also highlights how affordability pressures differ by age. Among renters aged 25 to 34, 43 per cent report spending more than half of their net income on rent, while 37 per cent of renters aged 35 to 54 report a similar level of strain. This underscores that affordability challenges extend beyond younger renters.

Budget constraints further showcase the gap between renter expectations and market realities. Seven in ten renters say their budget for their next rental is under $2,000, even as asking rents in many markets remain above that level.

Renters targeting more expensive cities such as Toronto and Vancouver report higher budget expectations than those searching in other markets, which reflects the limited availability of lower-priced rental options.