How much does it cost to move out in Toronto, ON? (2026)
In Toronto, the average one-bedroom rents for CA$2,110/month. Using the same defaults as the calculator below (first month + moving/setup; security deposit off), plan on about CA$5,220 before furniture — and CA$10,550–CA$14,770 total if you also build a starter emergency fund. Toggle deposit on in the calculator if your lease requires one. Housing here is 40% above the US national average (index 140 vs 100).
Local lease norms
Ontario generally limits key money and regulates deposits — typically last month’s rent as a rent deposit is the common ask (not an extra “security deposit” of multiple months). Rent increases for sitting tenants are guideline-capped; vacant units reset to market.
Toronto rent prices: 1-bedroom vs 2-bedroom
Downtown and premium neighborhoods often run 15–30% higher; suburbs can run 10–25% lower than citywide averages. Toronto runs above the national average for housing. Solo renting is doable with stable income, but roommates cut costs materially.
Upfront move-in costs in Toronto
Matches the calculator defaults for average 1BR rent (including last month upfront). Security deposit is off until you turn it on.
| Cost item | Amount |
|---|---|
| First month's rent | CA$2,110 |
| Last month's rent | CA$2,110 |
| Moving costs (est.) | CA$500 |
| Utility deposits (est.) | CA$200 |
| Setup & misc (est.) | CA$300 |
| Total upfront (no furniture) | CA$5,220 |
Add $800–$2,000+ for minimal-to-moderate furniture if you are not bringing belongings. Pet deposits add more if applicable.
Monthly budget after you move in
Recurring costs for a solo renter at the average 1BR in Toronto.
Before dining out, subscriptions, or debt payments
Salary needed to rent in Toronto
Gross requirements do not equal what hits your bank account. Estimate your take-home before you apply.
Roommate option in Toronto
Splitting a 2BR (~CA$2,700/mo average) is a common way to cut costs.
Estimated roommate upfront costs: CA$4,270 — shared moving costs and a lower rent base.
Deposit and tenant rules in Toronto, ON
Ontario landlords cannot charge a security deposit on residential rentals — only last month's rent may be collected in advance (Rent Control Act). In Toronto, budget for first month plus last month upfront, not a separate deposit.
How Toronto compares to other metros
Same country, average 1BR rent and estimated upfront costs.
| City | Avg rent | vs Toronto | Upfront | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver, BC | CA$2,400/mo | +CA$290 | ~CA$3,400 | |
| Montreal, QC | CA$1,450/mo | −CA$660 | ~CA$2,450 | |
| Calgary, AB | CA$1,600/mo | −CA$510 | ~CA$2,600 | |
| Ottawa, ON | CA$1,850/mo | −CA$260 | ~CA$4,700 | |
| Edmonton, AB | CA$1,240/mo | −CA$870 | ~CA$2,240 | |
| Winnipeg, MB | CA$1,200/mo | −CA$910 | ~CA$2,200 |
Hidden costs first-time renters miss in Toronto
These items often add $2,000–$5,000 in the first year beyond rent and deposit.
Planning your timeline
If you need CA$10,550 total and can save CA$844/month after living expenses. Use the calculator above with your actual income and savings for a personalized date.
Toronto rent and cost data reflects 2026 averages used in this calculator (COL index 140). Lease terms vary by landlord and neighborhood. Verify local tenant law and listing details before signing. Compare all cities or read our national move-out guide.