Living in a shared apartment is a popular option among young people. It makes your experience more fun and you’ll have company as soon as you arrive in this new city.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Toronto
Not sure if sharing a flat is for you? Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Toronto
- You can choose to live in popular neighbourhoods for young people like Midtown, Downtown and Old Town.
- Choose between private shared flats and student residences, whatever suits you best.
- Meet your flatmates as soon as you arrive and explore Toronto together.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Toronto
- Sometimes the rooms are empty, so you might need to spend money on furniture when you arrive.
- Make sure the apartment has good insulation for winter and check if heating is included in the rent, because sometimes it’s not.
Apps for your international exchange programme in Toronto
There are several apps that can make your exchange to Toronto easier by providing useful information about necessary procedures, university life, and living in the city. You can also find recommendations from previous international students, such as bringing warm clothes even if you’re going in the fall or spring because it gets cold quickly.
How to meet people in Toronto
Aside from bonding with your flatmates, here are some great ways to meet people in this Canadian city:
Student Associations in Toronto
The University of Toronto and other institutions have many clubs and societies from diverse fields that you can join. These include international student societies, arts, sports, religions, and nationalities.
Facebook groups for international students in Toronto
You can find various Facebook groups for international students to connect and ask questions you may have. Join groups like International Student Experience at U of T for students attending the University of Toronto and International Students Toronto for students at other institutions.
WhatsApp groups for international students in Toronto
WhatsApp and Telegram groups are perfect for communicating with other young people. These groups help you stay in the loop about the events in the city and make plans according to your interests and preferences.
Tips for sharing a student flat in Toronto
Here are some recommendations for living in shared flats in this Canadian city:
- Toronto’s public transport system includes subways, trams, and buses, which work great. If you need to move around the city frequently, you'll quickly get used to the system.
- Take advantage of your stay in Toronto by going to sporting events and festivals with your friends and roommates. Don’t miss an ice hockey game or the Winterlicious festival in winter. For outdoor fun, explore the areas around Lake Ontario.
Frequently asked questions about sharing a flat in Toronto
How much does a spare room in a shared flat cost in Toronto?
The cost of the rooms usually starts at $375 per month and can go up to over $2000, depending on the features and location.
How to find roommates in Toronto?
The best way to find roommates is through online communities like Erasmus Play. This app/web lets you filter through different rooms and apartments to easily find the ideal one for you.
Why share a student flat in Toronto?
Toronto's cost of living is high, and a room in a shared flat is often the most affordable option for students. Plus, it allows you to live in a fun and lively environment, sharing moments with your roommates.
What should I know when entering a flatshare in Toronto?
Make sure to learn about your roommates' lifestyles to see if they are compatible with yours. Also, find out the house rules regarding cleaning, visits, pets, smoking, and parties.
How to choose the ideal roommates in Toronto?
Ideally, your roommates should have different nationalities but similar lifestyles. Living in a multinational environment will help you improve your English, as you'll be using it more frequently every day.