Why Family-Friendliness Matters in Downtown Condos
October 3, 2025What Is RateTheCondo and Why It Matters
December 24, 2025Looking for condos for rent in Toronto? With dozens of new towers and established buildings across downtown, midtown, and North York, Toronto offers something for every lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to lake views at Harbourfront or convenient subway access in North York, knowing what to look for will help you find the right home — and avoid costly surprises.
This guide breaks down what to consider when renting a condo in Toronto, complete with a practical checklist at the end.
1. Location, Location, Location
Toronto’s diversity extends to its neighborhoods — each area offers a different experience, commute, and price range.
Downtown Toronto Condos for Rent
Downtown is where you’ll find most condos for rent near the PATH, Union Station, and the financial core.
You’ll be steps from restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment, but parking and visitor parking can be limited.
Every condo has their pros and cons
Harbourfront: Many buildings like 100 Harbour Street or 88 Harbour Street are directly connected to the PATH — perfect for those working downtown.
Others, like 33 Harbour Square, offer stunning water views and direct access to waterfront parks and the boardwalk.
Midtown Toronto Condos for Rent
If you want a balance of city life and residential calm, midtown Toronto (Yonge–Eglinton, Davisville, or St. Clair) might be ideal.
You’ll still have subway access and trendy shops nearby.
Condos here often attract slighly older professionals who want a mix of nightlife and quieter evenings.
Search for midtown Toronto condos for rent if you value convenience without the full downtown intensity.
North York Condos for Rent
North York, particularly around Yonge and Finch or Yonge and Sheppard, has a large Asian population and a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafés, and community centers.
It’s located near the northern end of Line 1 (Yonge–University), meaning you usually get a seat on the subway — a major perk for daily commuters.
The area is more car-dependent than downtown, but you’ll get larger units and easier access to highways.
Many North York condos for rent also include parking or visitor parking, which adds extra convenience.
2. Understand What’s Included in Rent
When reviewing Toronto condo rental listings, always check what’s included.
Many older Toronto condos — especially those built before 2010 — include hydro and sometimes internet because separate metering wasn’t installed when they were built. This can save you a significant amount monthly.
You should clarify whether rent includes:
Hydro (electricity) and internet
Water and heating
Parking and locker
Access to amenities (gym, pool, visitor parking, library)
3. Building Amenities and Management
Amenities can make or break your condo experience. When looking at Toronto condos for rent, compare what each building offers:
Visitor parking (great for guests)
Indoor pool (especially valuable if you swim regularly)
Fitness centre or gym
Basketball court or pilates or yoga studio
Concierge and security
A good rule of thumb: aim for 1 elevator per 10 floors in high-rise buildings to avoid long waits during rush hours.
Inspect common areas to see if they’re clean and well-maintained. A professional concierge, working elevators, and responsive property management are good signs of a well-run building.
💬 Pro tip: Check Google reviews or Reddit threads for your specific building name — you’ll often find honest feedback about management and maintenance.
4. Inspect the Unit Carefully
Even if the condo looks great online, always see it in person or request a detailed video walkthrough.
Check for:
Working appliances (especially washer/dryer and dishwasher)
Proximity to garbage chute and if the noise travels to your suite
Consistent heating and cooling
Good water pressure and no leaks
Proper storage and closet space
Quiet between walls and floors
If possible, visit during evening hours to check for noise levels or traffic sound.
5. Review Lease Terms
Most condos for rent in Toronto require a 1-year lease, a rent deposit, and sometimes proof of employment or credit report. Review these carefully:
Lease duration and renewal terms
Rent deposit amount (usually first and last month’s rent)
Pet policy and move-in rules
Subletting restrictions
In Ontario, rent increases are regulated for most private units, but confirm your condo’s eligibility before signing. In Ontario, units first occupied after November 15, 2018, are exempt from rent control.
6. Budget Wisely
Toronto condo rental prices vary by location and unit size. As of this year:
Studios: around $2,000/month
1 Bedrooms: around $2,500/month
2 Bedrooms: $3,000/month
Also budget for:
Tenant insurance (required by most landlords)
Internet, hydro, and parking (if not included)
Moving and furnishing costs
7. Toronto Condo Rental Checklist
✅ Choose your preferred location (Downtown, Midtown, or North York, etc)
✅ Confirm what’s included in the rent (hydro, internet, parking)
✅ Review amenities and building condition
✅ Inspect the unit for functionality and noise
✅ Review lease terms and rent rules
✅ Budget for additional monthly costs
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect condo for rent in Toronto is about more than square footage — it’s about lifestyle, location, and long-term comfort. Downtown Harbourfront offers breathtaking lake views and convenience to the PATH; Midtown balances vibrancy and quiet; North York provides space, community, and transit access.
With this checklist, you’ll be better prepared to compare listings, ask the right questions, and secure a condo that truly fits your lifestyle.
