09/25/2026
Asking Rents Do Not Represent What Most Halifax Tenants Pay
DID YOU KNOW?
The average asking rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Halifax reached approximately $2,400, while the average rent paid for a two-bedroom purpose-built apartment was approximately $1,770.
That is a difference of approximately 36%.
Sources: Nova Scotia Department of Finance and Treasury Board, Halifax Asking Rent Data; CMHC, Rental Market Report provided to RHPNS.
WHY?
Asking rents measure only the units currently advertised—not the entire rental market.
Older and more affordable apartments occupied by long-term tenants rarely appear on rental websites. Listings contain a larger proportion of new buildings, renovated units and higher-amenity apartments, which pushes the reported average higher.
Rent control has also contributed to a two-tiered market. It holds down increases for people who remain in place, while new renters compete for a limited number of available units at substantially higher rents.
Young people, students, newcomers, separated families, seniors and workers relocating for employment are among those most affected.
THE BETTER DIRECTION FOR NOVA SCOTIA
Allow Nova Scotia’s temporary rent cap to expire as scheduled at the end of 2027.
Increase rental supply and provide targeted assistance to renters experiencing genuine affordability challenges.
Housing policy should address the high rents faced by people searching for homes—not deepen the divide between existing and new renters.
