Rental Market Report highlights
- Vacancy rate increased to 2.1%, up from the 1% rate it held for 3 years.
- The average rent for a two-bedroom unit is $ 1,707 (up by 3.8%)
- Demand for newer premium units slowed, particularly those downtown, resulting in some incentives from landlords
- More affordable properties remained in high demand, with the vacancy rate for units under $1300 below 1%
- Rents for units becoming available that turn over to new tenants increased by roughly 28%
Average monthly rental cost by apartment size
Bachelor:
$1,182
One bedroom:
$1,403
Two bedroom:
$1,707
3+ bedroom:
$2,170
Published December 2024
Based on aggregated listings as of August 2025 (132 listings) in the Halifax area, zumper published the current average rent prices as follows:
Bachelor/Studio:
$1,638
One bedroom:
$2,095
Two bedroom:
$2,570
3+ bedroom:
$2,699+
Overall, rental prices have remained relatively steady over the last several months and have decreased by 8% in the last year.
Some factors to consider
- Rents will vary depending on the apartment location, age, and condition.
- It is generally more expensive to live in locations close to Dalhousie University campuses than elsewhere in the Halifax Regional Municipality or Town of Truro.
- These are the average housing costs in the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM). Housing outside of the HRM are usually lower but transportation costs must be considered.
Creating a budget
When creating a budget, consider the following:
- Upfront, you will have to pay a security deposit (equal to a half a month's rent), tenant's insurance and the first month's rent.
- Continuously, you will be paying:
- Rent
- Utilities (internet, power, phone bills)
- Living costs (food and fun)
Budgeting resources
Utilities
Check with your landlord, if you’re not sure which utilities are included in your rent. If you do have to arrange for your own utilities or services, many providers offer special packages or information for students.
Electricity
Set up an account 7-10 days in advance
Visit Nova Scotia Power’s student website for more information on setting up an account.
Telephone, internet and television
Multiple providers available: BellAliant, Eastlink, Purple Cow (internet only)
Pricing available for individual services or in bundles
Average/approximate costs
Electricity/home heating
$100-$150/month (varies based on consumption and method of heat)
Basic smart phone (plan only)
$55-60/month
High speed internet
$80-110/month
Keep in mind that hooking up services, such as electricity, will involve a one-time connection fee. Costs are provided as estimates only.
Disclaimer: Third-party service providers and their associated properties, products or services are not affiliated with Dalhousie Off-Campus Housing. They are intended as a resource only, and Dalhousie cannot and does not guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, or completeness of the content or information contained under the links. Risk of loss arising out of use is solely the responsibility of the user.
