Halifax, NS
Renting Guide
A vibrant maritime city with a rich history and welcoming community.
Halifax, the lively capital of Nova Scotia, is steeped in history and culture with a strong maritime spirit. It is home to five universities making it an education hub filling the city full of youthful energy. The locals are also known for genuine, friendly hospitality that makes newcomers feel at home fast. Set against the Atlantic, it offers both urban amenities and natural beauty, from the historic waterfront to a dynamic arts scene and a food culture that includes the much-loved donair.
Housing Market
Halifax presents a diverse housing market with a mix of single-family homes and various apartment buildings. The city is experiencing a surge in population growth, particularly among millennials, driving a higher demand for housing. Despite rising prices, Halifax remains more affordable compared to larger provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. However, the affordability for students and lower-income residents is gradually becoming a concern.
Typical housing type: The city offers a range of housing options, from single-family homes to apartment complexes of varying sizes.
Apartment Hunting
Finding apartments for rent in Halifax can be a challenge due to increasing demand and lower vacancy rates. While budget-friendly options are available, particularly for bachelor apartments, prices for 1-bedroom apartments and houses for rent in Halifax have risen significantly. Larger units like 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom apartments are available but may come with a higher price tag.
Many Halifax apartment buildings offer appealing amenities, such as fitness centers, pools, and onsite laundry facilities. Renters can also find a variety of interior features, including hardwood and ceramic flooring. Pet-friendly policies are common, although they often cater primarily to cat owners.
Explore Property Types
Every year, thousands of people relocate to the Maritimes to get a taste of the East Coast lifestyle. Whatever property style you choose, you are sure to be happy living in one of Canada’s most desirable cities.
Apartments
You won’t find as many listings here as you would in another major Canadian city. Halifax is small when compared to Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa or Winnipeg. Halifax apartments for rent reflect that and can be rented out quickly. Don’t hesitate! Contact the landlord.
House
A lot of renters in Halifax are young professionals or students looking to live with their friends. The downtown core is not large, so if you are willing to travel a couple of minutes on public transport, quality Halifax houses for rent can be found in the suburbs.
Look for the Amenities you want
Halifax has just about anything anyone could ever want. When you’re not out enjoying everything the city has to offer, be sure that your home has all the amenities you need to live a comfortable and happy life.
Wheelchair-Accessible
Halifax is definitely not a mountain city, but it is actually pretty hilly. Most of the downtown core has been built around the gradual incline of Citadel Hill. Many buildings are old, so to find Halifax wheelchair accessible apartments for rent look for new builds and ground-level units.
Pool
Nova Scotia’s many beaches are a swimmer's paradise. But let's be honest, even the hardiest of us won’t be able to handle the ocean in the middle of winter. Look for new builds for the best chance of finding Halifax apartments with a pool.
Gym
Halifax is famous for its world class seafood, obviously. But have you ever tried a Donair? Good luck eating in moderation once you have tried the city's official food. Halifax apartments for rent with gyms will help you feel better about gorging yourself on this delicious treat.
Fireplace
Want a working fireplace? You may actually be in luck. Halifax has plenty of single-family homes and older buildings for rent. Start your search for Halifax apartments with fireplaces here. Always make sure to ask the owner how to use it safely. Keep the fried Digby scallops crispy, not your apartment.
Dishwasher
Halifax apartments with a dishwasher can be found in new developments and renovated older buildings.
Balcony
Let's be real, you are moving to Halifax to be close to the ocean. Halifax apartments with a balcony are perfect to soak up that refreshing ocean air. But be warned, Halifax winters are freezing so a drafty door to your balcony can make you uncomfortable really fast.
Air-Conditioning
The summer in Halifax rarely gets piping hot like other Canadian cities can. So Halifax apartments with air conditioning may be a little harder to find than normal. They do exist, but you’ll have to be more selective in your apartment search.
Washer-Dryer
Halifax is notorious for having one of the highest bars per capita rates in Canada. It’s twice that of Toronto for a city 1/10 the size. Halifax apartments with a washer and dryer will keep you smelling and looking fresh as you hit the town, something we suspect you will do a lot while you’re here.
Specialty Housing Filters
Housing in Halifax is less abundant than other cities, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have plenty of great options. Use our specialty housing filters to find the property that works with your lifestyle.
Pet-Friendly
Halifax not only has a lot of pet-friendly houses and apartments, but it may be one of the most pet-friendly cities you’ll find. Halifax pet-friendly apartments are complemented by tons of parks, boardwalks, beaches and other places to go if your pet needs outdoor time.
Furnished
Most people who move to Halifax won’t be able to bring much furniture with them on the plane. So Halifax furnished apartments for rent may be your best bet. Having the basics like a couch and a bed will help relieve the stress of settling into a new city.
Short-Term
Even if you are just going to Halifax temporarily, we suspect you will want to stay forever. Halifax short term rentals are commonly sublets or lease transfers. Ask if there is an option to extend your stay after the fixed term.
Corporate-Housing
Halifax is the business hub of Canada’s East Coast. For Halifax corporate housing options be sure to look for units downtown, most offices are concentrated in the same area of the city.
Student-Housing
For a small Canadian city, Halifax has a whopping seven post-secondary institutions to choose from within the city. Student housing Halifax is spread across the city, but a lot of students live near Dalhousie University and St. Mary's University in the south end neighbourhoods.
Cheap
If you are like so many Canadians who have made the shift to working remotely, Halifax may just be the perfect place for you to settle down. Cheap apartments for rent in Halifax are not as plentiful as they once were, so you’ll need to do your homework.
Residents
Halifax is home to a welcoming community known for its friendly and inclusive nature. The population is primarily composed of Canadian and Western European descendants. Many residents place a high value on family, community, and social activities. The city is family-friendly, with numerous amenities and activities suitable for all ages, creating a strong sense of community throughout the area.
Life & Style
Life in Halifax is characterized by a balance of hard work and socializing. Residents value time with family and friends and often enjoy spending evenings at local bars or social gatherings. Halifax's nightlife is vibrant, reflecting the city's East Coast charm and friendly atmosphere. Public transit is convenient, with numerous bus routes and easy access to major highways, making it easy to explore the city and beyond.
Neighbourhood
Halifax boasts a variety of historical sites and educational institutions, including five universities. The city is dotted with numerous bars and restaurants serving local specialties like seafood and donairs. The scenic waterfront and lush public gardens offer residents and visitors a peaceful escape into nature. Downtown Halifax is ideal for shopping, with everything from quaint boutiques to the bustling Halifax Shopping Centre.
Landmarks: Citadel Hill, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Pier 21, Halifax Public Gardens, Province House, Harbourside Market, Old Town Clock, Halifax City Hall, HMCS Sackville, Halifax Citadel, Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, St. Mary’s Basilica, Old Burying Ground, The Emigrant Statue.