Toronto Utility Costs for Renters (2025): Condo vs House Guide
Average monthly utility costs:
Toronto condos: $110–$220
Toronto houses / freeholds: $250–$360+
If you’re renting in Toronto or nearby areas like Mississauga, Vaughan, Scarborough, or North York, one question always comes up: “How much will utilities cost?”
Understanding the average monthly costs for hydro, heating, water, and internet can help you budget effectively. This guide breaks down typical utility expenses in condos and houses (freehold properties), but ultimately depends on usage, season, age of the building, and how many people live in the property.
Condo vs House: Monthly Utility Costs for Renters
Note: Condos/Condo Townhouses often include some utilities in the condo fees. Houses usually require tenants to pay all utilities.
What Each Utility Covers
Hydro (Electricity)
Hydro powers lights, appliances, and air conditioning. Most condos and houses are serviced by Toronto Hydro, while areas like Mississauga and Vaughan may use Alectra. Some buildings track usage via submetering companies like Provident or Carma. Expect $50–$100 per month depending on unit size.
Heating / Gas
Gas is used for furnaces which heats houses, and some appliances like stove, fireplace, boilers. Most condos have gas included in their maintenance fees, but newer builds typically have gas separate. Houses will typically have higher gas bills in the winter, but also have a small bill in the summer even if heat isn’t being used. The main provider in Ontario is Enbridge Gas.
Water
Condos: Often included; if not, $20–$30/month.
Houses: $30–$50/month depending on size.
Internet
Internet is typically not included in rent, though some condos have it included in the maintenance fees. The most common internet providers in Toronto are Rogers, Bell, Fido, and Beanfield.
Tip: I usually suggest to my clients to shop around, as they often have promotions that make plans more affordable.
Managing Utilities as a Renter in Toronto (Condos & Houses)
Renting a Toronto condo or house can feel confusing when it comes to utilities. Here’s how I usually guide my clients to make it simpler:
Know what’s included in your rent: Many Toronto condos include heating and water, and some even include internet. Houses usually don’t, so always ask your Realtor or Landlord what’s covered before signing a lease.
Look for internet deals: I often suggest comparing a few quotes, starting with Rogers, as they frequently have promotions that help you save money. You can also check with the building concierge or property management to see if your building has any special offers.
Budget realistically: On average, Toronto condo utilities cost $110–$220/month, while Toronto house utilities run $250–$360+, depending on size and season.
Set up accounts early: Hydro, heating, water, and internet may require setup before move-in. Doing this ahead of time avoids last-minute stress.
Quick Takeaways – Toronto Condo vs House Utilities
Condos in Toronto: Easier to budget; heating and water often included, sometimes internet.
Houses / Freeholds in Toronto: All utilities are separate; higher costs, especially in winter.
Renting in Toronto means budgeting for more than just rent. Condos often include heat and water, while houses usually come with higher monthly bills. The ranges above give you a ballpark, but every place is different. That’s why I always walk renters and relocation clients through the extras, things like utilities, tenant insurance, and other monthly costs, so they know what to expect.
Whether you’re moving into a condo downtown, a townhouse in North York, or a house in Mississauga, Vaughan, or Scarborough, this guide should give you a solid starting point for planning your budget.
