Loading...

Toronto Home Sharing

Click for Toronto Home Sharing Listings Below
What is Home Sharing?

Home sharing in Toronto is a supportive living model where older adults share their home with students or younger adults. In exchange for reduced rent, the housemate provides companionship or light assistance—like grocery shopping, tech support, or pet walking.

This long-term arrangement boosts safety, affordability, and social connection for both parties.

How Does It Work?

Programs are typically run by nonprofits or city-led services. They include:

  • Screening and interviews for both homeowner and housemate
  • Background and reference checks
  • Matching based on lifestyle and preferences
  • Written agreements and ongoing support

Arrangements vary—some focus on independence, others foster shared moments. Success depends on clear expectations and communication.

Local Home Sharing Programs in Toronto

Toronto seniors can access two trusted home‑sharing initiatives:

  • Canada HomeShare – Toronto Program: A national nonprofit that matches older adults with post-secondary students. Participants share discounted rent in exchange for light household and tech support. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  • Toronto HomeShare (City of Toronto): This city-run program connects adults aged 55+ with post-secondary students. Students pay reduced rent (around $400–600/month) and provide 5–7 hours per week of companionship or help. Fully facilitated by social workers, it includes vulnerable sector screenings and year-round support. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Who Can Benefit?
  • Older adults looking to reduce isolation and remain independent
  • Students or younger adults seeking low-cost housing
  • Families seeking extra support for aging loved ones
  • Anyone interested in intergenerational living
Things to Consider
  • Set up a written agreement outlining rent, chores, and boundaries
  • Clarify privacy expectations and shared space rules
  • Use a trial period to confirm it’s a good match

If you’re not sure whether home sharing is right, our consulting services can help you explore options.

Explore Home Sharing in Toronto

With rising living costs and growing interest in aging-in-place, Toronto home sharing offers an affordable, meaningful path forward. Both Canada HomeShare and Toronto HomeShare provide structured, supported ways to build intergenerational connections.

Visit their websites to learn more and apply:

Cost of Home Sharing in Toronto

Is there a standard cost for home sharing in Toronto?

No — home sharing costs are not standardized. They’re privately negotiated between the homeowner and the person moving in. The agreed amount can vary based on location, room size, amenities, and whether household contributions (like companionship or light chores) are expected in exchange for reduced rent.

Since there is no fixed pricing, home sharing is not included in our cost calculator. But knowing your specific arrangement can help you compare it to other housing options, depending on your needs and goals.

Who might want to compare home sharing costs to other options?

Renters:
A student or working adult may simply compare rent to market prices for a room or small apartment in the same area. A younger senior might look at home sharing versus independent living options in their community.

Homeowners (typically older adults):
You may want to weigh the net cost of staying in your home — factoring in tenant income, household expenses, and any care costs (out-of-pocket or through Ontario Health atHome) — against the cost of moving into a retirement residence or Independent Living plus Care facility.

Can I use the cost calculator to compare home sharing to other options?

Yes — especially for homeowners comparing the cost of staying in their home with a tenant versus moving into senior housing. Once you know your monthly baseline (household expenses, care costs, tenant income), you can use the Senior Housing Cost Calculator to compare that to retirement homes, independent living, and assisted living options in your area.

Meighen Retirement Residence Front Door Toronto
Featured
Meighen Retirement Residence

84 Davisville Avenue, Toronto ON, M4S1G1

View Profile
Toronto Homeshare Program

City of Toronto, Toronto ON, M5S1V4

See More