The new Spring Renter Preference Survey from Rentals.ca shows that affordability remains the defining challenge for Canadian renters, with 70 per cent of respondents identifying high rent prices as the biggest obstacle in their housing search. Using input from 1,194 renters across Canada, the annual survey found that affordability concerns outweigh all other rental market challenges by a wide margin. Unsuitable listings (11%) and low rental supply (6%) ranked far behind rising housing costs.
The data shows that Affordability pressures also cut across income levels. Renters with lower budgets overwhelmingly cited rent prices as their primary barrier, while higher budget renters were more likely to report difficulty finding suitable units or enough available inventory. Still, high rents remained the top concern across all groups. Four in ten respondents (40%) said they plan to move primarily to find a more affordable rental—making it the most common reason for relocating. By comparison, 30 per cent cited a need for more space, and 22 per cent said they are moving for work or school.
Renters are also bracing for continued cost pressures. Only 25 per cent said they expect rents to decline over the next six months, while nearly half anticipate prices will stay the same or rise further.
The survey highlights a widening gap between renters’ budgets and market realities. Forty two per cent reported a monthly rental budget below $1,500, while Canada’s average asking rent now exceeds $2,000 per month.
Key findings include:
• High rent prices — 70% say this is the biggest challenge in their housing search.
• Moving for affordability — 40% plan to relocate to find a more affordable unit.
• Budget constraints — 42% have a rental budget under $1,500 per month.
• Rent control preferences — 36% are only considering rent controlled units for their next move.
• Uncertainty about rent control — 41% are unsure whether rent control matters in their search.
• AI adoption — 29% have used AI tools such as ChatGPT or Google Gemini during their apartment search.
• Amenity preferences — 67% would pay more for in suite laundry, making it the most sought after amenity.
Meanwhile, AI is emerging as a new tool in the rental search process. Nearly one third of renters reported using AI to compare prices, interpret lease terms, research neighbourhoods, and communicate with landlords. Adoption was highest among renters aged 25 to 34 and among those entering the rental market for the first time.
For a comprehensive overview, visit: Spring 2026 Renter Preference Survey Canadian Renters Survey 2026: Affordability, AI and Rental Trends
