The Niagara Region, famous for its breathtaking natural scenery and welcoming communities, is becoming one of Ontario’s most sought-after places to live. Whether you’re a student preparing for a new school year, a professional moving for work, or a family seeking a peaceful neighborhood, the rental market in Niagara has something to offer for everyone.
With 2025 bringing new housing developments and a growing population, it’s important to understand the current rental prices and what you can expect in each part of the region. This guide breaks it down by area and helps you plan your next move with confidence.
Introduction
The Niagara Region is made up of several unique cities and towns. Each one offers a different lifestyle, from the busy energy of Niagara Falls to the peaceful charm of Port Colborne. And while it’s still more affordable than places like Toronto or Hamilton, the cost of renting is going up in many areas due to higher demand and limited availability.
This blog focuses on six key locations within Niagara:
- Niagara Falls
- St. Catharines
- Welland
- Port Colborne
- Thorold
- Fort Erie
We’ll cover the average prices for different property types in each city, including studios, apartments, and houses. Whether you want something small and affordable or a larger family home, this guide will help you understand the local market and make informed choices.
Rental Price Breakdown by Region
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is known across the world for its waterfalls, but it’s also a growing city with a mix of short-term and long-term rental options. The city is popular with both tourists and residents, offering a variety of places to live—condos downtown, apartments near shopping centers, and quiet houses in suburban neighborhoods.
- Studio Apartments: Starting from $1,144/month
Great for singles or students looking for budget-friendly space. - 1-Bedroom Apartments: Around $1,826/month
A popular choice for young professionals and couples. - 2-Bedroom Units: Around $2,096/month
Suitable for roommates, couples needing an extra room, or small families. - 3-Bedroom Homes: About $2,444/month
Ideal for growing families who want space and privacy.
St. Catharines
St. Catharines, often called “The Garden City,” is the largest city in the region. It has a lively arts and music scene, great schools, and Brock University. With plenty of parks, shopping, and public transit, it’s a favorite among students and professionals alike.
- Studio Apartments: From $1,394/month
These are often found near downtown or near the university. - 1-Bedroom Apartments: Around $1,678/month
Great for people who work in the city or study at Brock. - 2-Bedroom Units: Around $1,973/month
Perfect for small families or tenants needing extra space. - 3-Bedroom Homes: About $2,260/month
A solid option for families looking for yards and multiple bathrooms.
Welland
Welland is becoming more popular thanks to new construction, better infrastructure, and affordability. It’s a great place for people who want more space for their money without moving too far from bigger cities.
- Studio Apartments: From $1,436/month
Budget-friendly for students and solo renters. - 1-Bedroom Apartments: Around $1,629/month
You’ll find many of these in newer developments. - 2-Bedroom Units: Around $1,833/month
A good balance between price and space. - 3-Bedroom Homes: About $2,260/month
Ideal for families who want a quieter, community-focused lifestyle.
Port Colborne
Port Colborne is located on the shores of Lake Erie and offers a peaceful, small-town lifestyle. It’s popular with retirees, remote workers, and families who want a more relaxed environment. The city also has charming waterfront areas and growing amenities.
- 1-Bedroom Apartments: Range from $1,047 to $2,140/month
Prices vary depending on how close you are to the lake or downtown. - 2-Bedroom Units: Average size is 802 sq. ft.
Prices can vary widely depending on size and features like parking, balconies, or in-unit laundry. - Houses: Average rent is around $2,240/month
These often come with yards and are ideal for families or couples wanting more privacy.
Thorold
- Studio Apartments: Starting from $1,451/month Often found near university areas.
- 1-Bedroom Apartments: Around $1,900/month Great for students, young couples, or those looking for peace and quiet.
- 3-Bedroom Homes: About $2,431/month Offers space for families or shared student living.
Fort Erie
Fort Erie sits on the U.S. border and offers a mix of rural and urban living. It has access to beaches, parks, and the Peace Bridge to Buffalo, making it ideal for cross-border workers or those who enjoy both city and nature.
- Studio Apartments: From $1,201/month
Affordable and found mostly in older buildings. - 1-Bedroom Apartments: Around $1,474/month
A good option for those who want simple living in a quiet town. - 3-Bedroom Homes: About $2,674/month
Great for families or tenants wanting extra space. - 4-Bedroom Homes: Around $3,218/month
Best suited for larger families or multi-generational households.
Additional Expenses to Consider
When planning your rental budget, don’t forget about the costs beyond monthly rent. Many renters are surprised when these extra expenses add up, so it’s important to be prepared.
- Utilities: Rent might not include electricity, water, or gas. Depending on the building, these could be paid separately each month. Always ask your landlord what’s included.
- Tenant Insurance: Most landlords now require this. It’s usually affordable (around $20–$40/month) and protects your belongings in case of damage or theft.
- Maintenance Responsibilities: For houses or townhomes, you might have to take care of things like cutting the grass or shoveling snow. This is usually written in the lease.
- First and Last Month’s Rent: Most landlords in Ontario ask for the first and last month’s rent before you move in. This is a legal requirement and helps protect both tenant and landlord.
These additional costs can make a big difference, so keep them in mind when choosing your rental.
final thoughts
Renting a home in the Niagara Region in 2025 offers many great options, whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or a larger family home. Every city in Niagara has its own feel, price range, and lifestyle benefits. By understanding the average rental prices and preparing for extra costs, you’ll be in a much better position to make the right choice.
Need help finding the right place? Whether it’s your first rental or your next move, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help you find a home that suits your needs and budget.
Arzman Singh
Arzman is a Niagara-based realtor with over 6 years of experience, working with Homelife Miracle Brokerage and the Sim Summan Team. He specializes in helping clients find rental or lease properties, offering expert guidance in the Niagara real estate market.