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Written By
Corinna Frattini
Sep 11, 2025
•Best Cities For Newcomers
Brampton is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities and a top choice for newcomers and international students. With a population of more than 791,000 (Statistics Canada, 2024), it is Ontario’s 3rd largest city). It’s known for its diversity, affordability compared to Toronto, and strong community spirit.
If you plan to rent in Brampton, here’s what you need to know about affordability, commuting, and the best neighbourhoods.
Yes, Brampton is generally cheaper than Toronto and Mississauga for housing.
👉 Solution for newcomers: If you don’t have a Canadian credit history, consider applying with a co-signer, offering prepaid rent, or showing proof of income to strengthen your rental application.2-bedroom: approx. $2,160/month
Brampton is 40 km northwest of Toronto, making it a popular commuter city.
👉 Solution for newcomers: If you’ll be working or studying in Toronto, choose a neighbourhood near a GO Station for easier commuting.
| RENTAL TIER | 1-BEDROOM RANGE | 2-BEDROOM RANGE |
|---|---|---|
| BUDGET $ (Older units or shared housing, often outside premium areas) | $1,700 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $2,400 |
| MID-RANGE $$ (Good condition, average location) | $2,000 -$2,300 | $2,400 -$2,800 |
| UPPER-MID $$$ (Newer builds, near GO, renovated) | $2,300 -$2,600 | $2,800 – $3,200 |
| PREMIUM $$$$ (Large/new homes, top schools/amenities) | $2,600 – $3,000 | $3,200 – $3,600 |
| LUXURY $$$$$ (Executive home, prime pockets (e.g. Castlemore) | $3,000+ | $3,600+ |
1-bedroom: approx. $2,088/month
2-bedroom: approx. $2,421/month
Many newcomers look for affordable 2-bedroom units to balance space and cost. Learn why a 2-bedroom apartment is a smart choice.
Brampton has many neighbourhoods that offer great rental opportunities for newcomers, whether you’re looking for affordable housing, student-friendly areas, or access to green space and transit. Here are the top picks:
Downtown is the historic heart of Brampton, revitalized with theatres, cultural venues, and lively dining options. It’s also the city’s main transit hub, making it one of the most connected places to live.
Ideal for: Students, young professionals, and newcomers without access to a car.
Access: Direct GO Train service to Toronto (40–50 minutes); Brampton Transit hub.
Vibe: Historic yet modern, cultural, and walkable.
Rental range: $$ – $$$ (aparments/condos)
Why newcomers like it: Affordable apartments, great transit links, and plenty of events make it an easy place to start life in Canada.
Bramalea was one of Canada’s first planned communities and is now a bustling, diverse neighbourhood. It’s known for Bramalea City Centre Mall, strong community services, and affordable rental options.
Ideal for: Budget-conscious renters, students, and families.
Access: Well-connected by Brampton Transit and close to Highway 410.
Vibe: Energetic, convenient, and urban.
Rental range: $ – $$ (apartments/townhouses)
Why newcomers like it: Lower rent compared to many GTA areas, plus easy shopping and nightlife.
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REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARHeart Lake is built around its namesake conservation area, offering plenty of trails, green space, and outdoor activities. It balances suburban living with access to nature.
Ideal for: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and renters seeking affordability.
Access: Quick drive to Highway 410; local Brampton Transit routes.
Vibe: Family-oriented, nature-focused, suburban.
Rental range: $$ – $$$ (newer townhouses/detached homes).
Why newcomers like it: Parks, schools, and affordability make it attractive for families settling in Brampton.
Mount Pleasant is one of Brampton’s newest and fastest-growing neighbourhoods, designed around the GO Station that connects directly to Toronto. It offers modern homes and amenities in a suburban setting.
Ideal for: Young families, couples, and commuters.
Access: Mount Pleasant GO Station to Union Station; good road connections.
Vibe: Modern, family-friendly, and community-focused.
Rental Range: $$ – $$$$ (newer townhouses/detached)
Why newcomers like it: A fresh start in newer housing with direct Toronto access and family services.
On the northwestern edge of Brampton, Snelgrove has a quieter, village-like feel with local businesses and upscale homes. It’s ideal for those who want more privacy and space while staying close to city amenities.
Ideal for: Professionals and established families.
Access: Close to Highway 410 for commuting.
Vibe: Quiet, upscale, and suburban.
Rental range: $$$ – $$$$ (detached homes)
Why newcomers like it: Offers stability, green space, and a calmer pace of life.
Vales of Castlemore is a culturally diverse, prestigious area known for large executive homes and family-oriented living. It combines green space with a strong sense of community.
Ideal for: Larger families and higher-income renters.
Access: Northeast Brampton, with highway connections and nearby conservation areas.
Vibe: Prestigious, spacious, and family-focused.
Rental range: $$$$ – $$$$$ Detached homes/executive. (Few apartments available).
Why newcomers like it: Many immigrant families choose Castlemore for its schools, space, and community feel.
| NEIGHBOURHOOD | IDEAL FOR | RENTAL RANGE (approximately) |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Brampton | Students, professionals, commuters | $1,800–$2,400 (1–2 BR) |
| Bramalea | Budget-conscious renters | $1,600–$2,200 (apartment) |
| Heart Lake | Outdoor enthusiasts, families | $2,000–$2,800 (townhouse/semi) |
| Mount Pleasant | Young families, Toronto commuters | $2,200–$2,900 (townhouse) |
| Snelgrove | Families seeking quiet living | $2,500–$3,200+ (detached) |
| Vales of Castlemore | Large families, high-income newcomers | $3,000–$4,500+ (detached) |
Yes. Brampton rents are generally lower than Toronto. On average, a one-bedroom in Brampton costs about $2,300, compared to $2,600+ in Toronto (Rentals.ca, Aug. 2025).
Heart Lake and Mount Pleasant are popular family choices, known for schools, parks, and safe, family-friendly communities.
Yes. Many international students live in Brampton because of its affordability, diversity, and transit connections to Toronto campuses and Sheridan College in nearby Mississauga.
Downtown Brampton is the best choice for newcomers without a car because it has a GO Station, bus hub, and walkable access to shops, dining, and services.
Brampton is one of Canada’s most welcoming cities for newcomers, offering a balance of affordability, space, and community compared to Toronto. With a diverse population, strong transit connections, and neighbourhoods ranging from budget-friendly Bramalea to upscale Castlemore, there’s a community for every lifestyle and budget.
For newcomers, the key is to match your priorities with the right neighbourhood:
Wherever you settle, Brampton offers a strong support network for immigrants, cultural diversity, and housing options to make your start in Canada easier.
Once you’ve chosen a neighbourhood that matches your budget and lifestyle, check out our Living in Brampton guide to learn more about jobs, culture, and life in the city.
WRITTEN BY
Corinna Frattini
Senior Editor and Content Director, Prepare for Canada
Corinna researches and writes content to help newcomers make informed decisions about housing, employment, banking, and aspects of settling in Canada. With a background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada. Her writing combines research, practical guidance, and clear language to support newcomers on their journey.
© Prepare for Canada 2025
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