Renters in Canada are increasingly turning their attention to Halifax, making it one of the most sought-after rental markets in the country. Recent data from RentCafe.com highlights Halifax's significant rise in popularity, as the city claims the second position for the most desired rental market in Canada. Moncton, N.B. topped the list with a perfect score.
In developing this ranking, RentCafe.com evaluated various metrics, including the number of available listings, listing views, apartments saved as favorites, and personalized search saves across 25 Canadian cities. These metrics were aggregated to generate an overall score out of 100. Halifax achieved an impressive score of 99.89 for the third quarter of 2025, reflecting a robust interest in the region.
The surge in attention towards Halifax is evident, with page views for rental listings increasing by 45% compared to the same period in 2024. Additionally, the number of listings being favorited skyrocketed by 241%. These statistics underscore the city's growing appeal amidst shifting housing trends across Canada.
Halifax's attractiveness as a rental market stems from its flourishing economy and abundant job opportunities. There has been a consistent year-over-year increase in employment levels among individuals aged 15 and older, indicating a healthy job market in the region. This economic stability makes Halifax a compelling choice for individuals looking to relocate.
However, despite the city's appeal, the rising rental prices have raised some concerns among potential tenants. As of the end of 2021, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Halifax was reported at $1,602, as per Rentals.ca data. By the end of 2022, this figure had jumped by 24% to reach $1,987. Although there was a slight decrease of 7.4%, bringing the average rent to $1,841 in December 2023, the overall costs remain high.
The Government of Nova Scotia indicates that in the first quarter of 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom unit in Halifax stands at $1,770 per month. This price point is significantly elevated when compared to other cities within the Maritimes. For context, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom in Moncton, St. John, Fredericton, and St. John’s is approximately $1,257, highlighting the affordability gap between Halifax and its neighboring regions.
In conclusion, while Halifax's rental market reveals promising trends in terms of demand and interest, the corresponding rise in rental prices poses challenges for many prospective renters. As individuals weigh the benefits of relocating to this vibrant city against the increasing cost of living, the broader implications for housing affordability in Halifax will continue to be a critical topic in the coming years.
