Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Canada For 2025

The best places to buy rental property in Canada might not be the cities you hear about on the news or see in glossy investment brochures. And that’s exactly why smart investors are paying attention. Canada has quietly become one of the most promising real estate markets in the world, with hidden gems that offer strong cash flow, rising demand, and long-term upside.

If you’re new to real estate, don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Between immigration-fueled population growth, stable rental demand, and pockets of real affordability, rental property investment in Canada is one of the best ways to get started in 2025. You don’t need millions. You don’t need a license. You just need the right market, the right education, and a little bit of action.

At Real Estate Skills, we help beginner real estate investors build the skills and confidence to invest in real estate in Canada the smart way. Whether your goal is monthly income, long-term appreciation, or building a portfolio that lasts, we’ll show you how to get there, step by step.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this guide:

• Why Canada Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property
• Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Canada
• The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Canada: FAQ

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Why Canada Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property

If you’re looking for stability, growth, and options, you’ll find all three in the Canadian real estate market. The best places to buy rental property in Canada aren’t just safe bets, they’re smart investments for people who want to build real wealth without taking on massive risk. And unlike some overheated U.S. markets, Canada still has cities where the numbers make sense, especially for new investors.

So what makes Canada such a strong pick in 2025? For starters, it’s the fundamentals. Canada’s population is growing faster than its housing supply, especially in key metro areas. Immigration is driving much of that growth, with hundreds of thousands of new residents entering the country each year. And guess what every one of those new residents needs: A place to live.

Combine that with low rental vacancy rates, steady job creation, and high homeownership costs in major cities, and you’ve got a market where Canadian rental markets are not only thriving, but hungry for more inventory. That creates a huge opportunity for everyday people looking to buy rental property in Canada and tap into a wave of ongoing demand.

What’s even better? You don’t have to live in Canada—or even know much about real estate investment in Canada—to get started. Whether you’re an out-of-country buyer or just exploring options in your own province, we’re here to help you navigate the market with confidence.

At Real Estate Skills, we make property investing in Canada simple. We teach you how to find the right city, how to analyze deals, and how to build a portfolio that pays you every single month.

Here are just a few reasons why Canada stands out as a top rental property market in 2025:

• Affordable Markets With Strong Rent-To-Price Ratios
• High Demand In Immigration Hubs & College Cities
• Pro-Landlord Laws In Select Provinces

Affordable Markets With Strong Rent-To-Price Ratios

One of the biggest advantages of investing in Canada is that you can still find affordable real estate in Canada that actually cash flows. Unlike Vancouver or Toronto, where sky-high home prices make it nearly impossible for the average investor to break in, many mid-sized cities and smaller provinces still offer deals where the numbers work.

We’re talking about properties that don’t cost a fortune but still bring in reliable monthly rent. These are the kinds of rental income property opportunities that allow everyday investors to build real momentum. If you’re looking for a high cash flow rental property in Canada, you don’t need to chase the biggest or flashiest market; you just need a smart strategy and the right location.

In fact, according to national housing data from WOWA and current rent estimates, there are many areas in Canada where average home prices are still under $450,000, and monthly rents for a 2-bedroom apartment are pushing $1,600–$1,800. That puts the price-to-rent ratio in a sweet spot, giving investors a real shot at monthly cash flow without having to overextend financially.

That’s exactly what we teach inside our program: how to identify these areas, analyze the numbers, and confidently move forward. Because the truth is, the best places to buy rental property in Canada aren’t always the ones with the most hype; they’re the ones where your money actually works harder for you.

High Demand In Immigration Hubs & College Cities

One of the most powerful forces driving rental property demand in Canada is population growth, and a huge part of that growth comes from immigration. Canada added over 176,699 new residents in the third quarter of last year alone, with a staggering 92% of that coming from international migration. And with the federal government’s plan to welcome more than 395,000 permanent residents, 305,900 new students, and 367,750 new temporary workers in 2025, the demand for rentals in major metros and surrounding areas is only going to keep rising.

Immigrants, especially in their first few years, are far more likely to rent than buy. That makes cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary some of the most Canadian cities with high rental demand. It’s not just about the big names either—smaller hubs that offer jobs, education, and affordability are also seeing sharp increases in renter populations.

Bottom line? If you’re looking for the best places to buy rental property in Canada, follow the people. Go where the population is growing, where schools are packed, and where renters are lining up. At Real Estate Skills, we’ll show you how to identify these high-demand zones and turn population trends into profit.

Pro-Landlord Laws In Select Provinces

When it comes to building a profitable rental portfolio, the rules of the game matter. In Canada, landlord-tenant laws vary significantly by province, and if you're an investor, that variation can make or break your strategy. While some provinces lean heavily toward tenant protections, others offer a more balanced or even landlord-favorable legal environment. Let's break down why Alberta, Saskatchewan, and parts of Atlantic Canada are considered investor-friendly rental markets in Canada.

Alberta: No Rent Control & Streamlined Evictions

Alberta is widely regarded as one of the best provinces for landlords in Canada. Here's why:

• No Rent Control: Alberta allows landlords to increase rent once every 12 months for the same tenant, with 90 days' notice, and there's no cap on the percentage increase. This flexibility enables landlords to adjust rents according to market conditions.
• Streamlined Eviction Process: For non-payment of rent, landlords can issue a 14-day eviction notice, which facilitates quicker tenant turnover. 

Saskatchewan: Balanced Regulations with Flexibility

Saskatchewan offers a balanced approach to landlord-tenant relations:

• Rent Increases: Landlords can increase rent by providing proper notice, and there are no caps on the amount, allowing adjustments in line with market rates. 
• Security Deposits: Landlords may charge a security deposit up to one month's rent, payable in two installments. The deposit must be returned within seven days after the tenant moves out.
• Eviction Process: The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) provides a clear framework for dispute resolution, making it easier for landlords to address tenancy issues.

Atlantic Canada: Emerging Opportunities for Investors

Parts of Atlantic Canada, such as New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, are gaining attention for their investor-friendly policies:

• Flexible Rent Policies: These provinces offer more flexibility in rental increases compared to others, allowing landlords to adjust rents with proper notice.
• Eviction Processes: Recent changes in Nova Scotia have streamlined the eviction process, enabling landlords to notify tenants three days after rent is due that their lease can end if they don’t pay their rent.

Understanding the nuances of landlord-tenant laws in Canada is crucial for any investor. Provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and parts of Atlantic Canada offer legal frameworks that can enhance profitability and reduce risk. At Real Estate Skills, we guide you through these complexities, helping you identify the best places to buy rental property in Canada that align with your investment goals.

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Canada

If you're wondering where to invest in real estate in Canada, you’re not alone. With home prices rising in some areas and cooling in others, the key to successful investing in 2025 is knowing which markets still offer value, growth, and dependable cash flow. That's exactly what this list is designed to help you with.

We’ve analyzed affordability, rent-to-price ratios, population growth, rental demand, and investor momentum to bring you our top picks. These aren’t just the biggest cities in the country; they’re some of the most investor-friendly and high-opportunity areas for beginners and seasoned buyers alike.

From thriving metros in Alberta to fast-growing cities in Atlantic Canada, these markets reflect the very best of today’s Canadian real estate market trends. If you're looking for the best ROI rental property Canada has to offer, these 15 cities should be on your radar.

Let’s take a closer look at the best places to buy rental property in Canada this year:

1. Calgary, Alberta
2. Edmonton, Alberta
3. Ottawa, Ontario
4. Halifax, Nova Scotia
5. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
6. Moncton, New Brunswick
7. London, Ontario
8. Winnipeg, Manitoba
9. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
10. Victoria, British Columbia
11. Hamilton, Ontario
12. Lethbridge, Alberta
13. Regina, Saskatchewan
14. Barrie, Ontario
15. Kelowna, British Columbia

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary continues to be a prime location for rental property investment. As of March 2025, the average home price in Calgary was $639,458, reflecting a 7.3% year-over-year increase. The city's balanced market conditions, with a sales-to-new listings ratio of 54%, indicate stable demand. Calgary's diversified economy, including energy, technology, and finance sectors, attracts a steady influx of professionals seeking rental accommodations. Additionally, the city's proactive approach to converting vacant office spaces into residential units demonstrates a commitment to addressing housing demand. These factors contribute to Calgary's appeal as a top rental market in Canada.

Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton offers a compelling case for rental property investors in 2025. Edmonton's average home price reached $460,685 in March 2025, marking a 9.4% year-over-year increase. Edmonton's growing population and diversified economy, encompassing sectors like technology, healthcare, and education, drive consistent rental demand. The city's affordability compared to other major Canadian markets makes it attractive for both investors and tenants. Additionally, Edmonton's proactive housing policies and steady economic growth position it as a resilient and profitable market for rental property investment.

Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa's stable economy and status as Canada's capital make it a reliable choice for rental property investment. In March 2025, the average home price in Ottawa was $685,866, with a modest 0.6% annual increase. The city's rental market remains tight, with vacancy rates under 2.5%, and rents are projected to rise by 5%–8% in 2025, especially near post-secondary institutions and transit lines. Ottawa's diverse employment opportunities and steady population growth contribute to its strong rental demand, making it a top contender for investors seeking long-term returns.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax stands out as a vibrant and growing rental market in 2025. The city's population surpassed 500,000 in 2024, driven by significant international immigration, leading to heightened demand for housing. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is projected to be around $1,740, reflecting the city's robust rental market. Halifax's strong economic momentum, coupled with limited housing supply, creates favorable conditions for rental property investors seeking growth and stability.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon presents a promising opportunity for rental property investment. As of April 2025, the average rent for all property types is $1,525, which is approximately 17% lower than the national average, indicating affordability for tenants. The city's rental market is considered "hot," with increasing demand and a limited supply of available rentals. Saskatoon's growing economy and population contribute to its appeal as an investor-friendly market. The combination of affordable property prices and strong rental demand positions Saskatoon as a strategic choice for investors seeking high returns.

Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton is quickly gaining recognition as one of the most affordable and profitable rental markets in Canada. With an average home price of $359,000 and average monthly rent around $1,242, investors are seeing rental yields near 4.1%. The city continues to grow thanks to immigration and interprovincial migration, fueling steady rental demand. Moncton is also one of the few cities where short-term rentals are still relatively unregulated, and Airbnb hosts earn an average of $15,197 annually. If you’re looking for strong returns without big-city prices, Moncton should be on your radar.

London, Ontario

London offers an ideal mix of affordability and demand for rental property investors. As of 2025, the average home price is $643,159, with a benchmark of $614,300. The city is a growing regional hub with a strong healthcare and education sector, including Western University and Fanshawe College, both driving consistent rental needs. Compared to the Toronto area, London offers much better value with plenty of opportunity to cash flow. The city's expanding population, rising rents, and overall stability make it one of the best long-term rental markets in Ontario.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg stands out as a reliable and affordable option for rental property investment. Home prices are still accessible, ranging from $350,000 to $500,000, depending on the neighborhood. Winnipeg’s economy is diversified—spanning manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and government—and its population growth has stayed strong post-pandemic. The city has also made recent commitments to building more affordable housing, which bodes well for long-term rental supply and stability. Investors looking for steady rent checks and lower competition than larger metros should give Winnipeg a serious look.

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s combines affordability with strong local rental demand, making it a smart pick for investors seeking returns in under-the-radar markets. The average home price is $369,027, with prices rising 8.6% year-over-year as of 2025. The city boasts a high quality of life, strong employment in public service and offshore industries, and a tight rental market. With limited new construction and rising demand, St. John’s presents a real opportunity for rental property owners looking to lock in equity growth and generate steady cash flow.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is one of Canada’s most consistently in-demand rental markets. In Q1 2025, residential sales were up 11% year-over-year, with condo sales alone rising by 23.1%. Limited housing inventory combined with strong lifestyle appeal keeps prices rising and vacancy rates low. Although more expensive than other cities on this list, Victoria’s stability, tenant demand, and appreciation potential make it a favorite for long-term investors. Whether you’re investing in single-family homes or multi-unit properties, Victoria delivers both equity growth and dependable income.

Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton offers a balanced market for rental property investors in 2025. The average home price in March 2025 was $788,968, a 4.5% decrease from the previous year, providing opportunities for investors to enter the market at a lower cost. Despite the price drop, the city's long-term growth remains strong, with a 30% increase over the past five years. Hamilton's diverse economy and proximity to Toronto make it attractive to renters seeking more affordable living options. The city's growing inventory and balanced sales-to-new-listings ratio suggest a stable environment for rental investments.

Lethbridge, Alberta

Lethbridge presents a promising opportunity for rental property investors. As of February 2025, the average home price was $402,643, offering affordability compared to other markets. The city's growing population, driven by its university and healthcare sectors, ensures steady rental demand. Lethbridge's balanced market conditions and lower entry costs make it an attractive option for investors seeking cash flow and long-term appreciation.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina's housing market is experiencing growth, with the average home price rising to $344,451 in March 2025, a 17% increase year-over-year. The city's affordability and strong rental demand, fueled by its government and education sectors, make it appealing to investors. Regina's low vacancy rates and stable economy contribute to its attractiveness as a rental market.

Barrie, Ontario

Barrie continues to be a strong rental market, with an average home price of $720,173 as of April 2025. Its proximity to Toronto and access to public transit make it a desirable location for commuters. Barrie's growing population and limited housing supply contribute to rising rents and low vacancy rates, offering investors the potential for solid returns.

Kelowna, British Columbia

Kelowna's real estate market remains robust, with the average home price reaching $1,144,973 in February 2025, up from $1,035,940 the previous year. The city's appeal as a lifestyle destination, combined with its growing tech and healthcare sectors, drives rental demand. Kelowna's limited housing inventory and strong economic growth make it an attractive market for rental property investors seeking long-term appreciation.

The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Canada: FAQ

Got questions about the best places to buy rental property in Canada? You’re not alone. Whether you're brand new or just starting to explore real estate investing in Canada for beginners, these quick answers will help you move forward with more confidence and less confusion.

What is the best city in Canada to buy rental property?

It depends on your goals, but Calgary, Moncton, and Halifax consistently rank high for cash flow, growth, and affordability.

Is buying rental property in Canada a good investment?

Yes, especially in 2025, as population growth and tight inventory continue to push rental demand across the country.

What provinces have the best rent-to-price ratios in Canada?

Alberta, Saskatchewan, and parts of Atlantic Canada offer some of the strongest rent-to-price ratios in the country.

Can you cash flow on rental properties in Canada?

Absolutely. Many Canadian cities with rental demand still allow for strong monthly cash flow, especially outside of the largest metros.

How much are property taxes for investors in Canada?

Property taxes vary by province and city, but they generally range from 0.5% to 2% of assessed value annually.

Can foreigners invest in Canadian real estate?

Yes, although there are new restrictions on non-residents buying property in some provinces. Always check the latest foreign investment Canada real estate laws before purchasing.

What are the most landlord-friendly cities in Canada?

Edmonton, Regina, and Moncton are known for having more flexible landlord-tenant laws and fewer rental restrictions.

Is real estate investing in Canada profitable in 2025?

Yes. With high immigration, low vacancy rates, and rising rents, it’s a smart time to invest in Canadian real estate.

Where do new investors start in Canada?

Start by learning how to analyze deals and choose markets with high demand, exactly what we teach inside our investing program.

What cities in Canada have growing rental demand?

Calgary, Saskatoon, London, and Moncton are among the fastest-growing Canadian cities with rental demand in 2025.

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Canada

There’s no question—some of the best places to buy rental property in Canada are offering real opportunity in 2025. With strong rental demand, solid appreciation potential, and more affordable entry points than other countries, rental property investment in Canada continues to be a smart move for those who know where to look.

And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone. At Real Estate Skills, we specialize in real estate investing for beginners in Canada. We teach you how to find the right markets, run the numbers, and build a portfolio that pays you—month after month, year after year.

If you're ready to start investing in Canadian real estate, the opportunity is right in front of you. We’ll walk you through the process step-by-step so you can take action confidently and start building real momentum.

Join our FREE training to learn the strategies that are helping thousands of new investors create lasting results with real estate.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Real Estate Investing? Join our FREE live webinar and discover the proven strategies to build lasting wealth through real estate.

Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale, we'll show you how to take action today. Don't miss this opportunity to learn the insider tips and tools that have helped thousands of investors succeed! Seats are limited—Reserve Your Spot Now!

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.