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Written By
Corinna Frattini
Aug 26, 2025
•Housing
Looking to rent in Sudbury as a newcomer to Canada? Greater Sudbury offers affordable rentals, a welcoming multicultural community, and easy access to nature. With a population of about 166,000 (Statistics Canada) and over 165 ethnic groups (City of Greater Sudbury), it’s one of Ontario’s most diverse cities. More than 40% of residents speak French, far above the provincial average of 2.4%, making it especially appealing to bilingual newcomers. Here’s your guide to the best Sudbury neighbourhoods for renting, complete with who they suit best, how to get around, the local vibe, and what you can expect to pay.
To learn more about the city, our guide to living in Sudbury, Ontario, covers the job and housing markets, lifestyle, and what to expect as a newcomer!
1-bedroom: approx. $1,871/month
2-bedroom: approx. $2,160/month
Many newcomers look for affordable 2-bedroom units to balance space and cost. Learn why a 2-bedroom apartment is a smart choice.
| RENTAL TIER | 1-BEDROOM RANGE | 2-BEDROOM RANGE |
|---|---|---|
| BUDGET (Older units or shared housing, often outside premium areas) | Under $1,100 | Under $1,400 |
| MODERATE (Affordable neighbourhoods with decent amenities) | $1,100-$1,500 | $1,400-$1,900 |
| MID-RANGE (Popular areas with good transit, services, and newer rentals) | $1,500-$1,800 | $1,900-$2,200 |
| UPPER RANGE (Premium locations, new builds, or close to lakes/parks) | Over $1,800 | Over $2,200 |
Sudbury 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 cultural and business heart of the city, offering easy access to jobs, transit, and services. You’ll find rental apartments, restaurants, grocery stores, and cultural centres all within walking distance.
This Sudbury neighbourhood is home to Cambrian College and Collège Boréal. It’s ideal for students and young families, and the New Sudbury Centre, the largest mall in Northern Ontario, is nearby. Rental types include apartments, townhomes, and single detached homes.
Good for: Students, young families, and budget-conscious renters.
Access: Multiple GOVA Transit routes serve the area.
Vibe: Busy and convenient, with easy access to education, retail, and services.
Rental range: Moderate to mid-range (1-bedroom $1,100- $1,800; 2-bedroom $1,400 – $2,200.
Why newcomers like it: Convenience of having everything nearby, from groceries to healthcare.
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REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARThe South End is surrounded by lakes and parks, offering a high quality of life and access to top institutions such as Health Sciences North and Laurentian University. South End rentals are more expensive but provide lakeside living. Greater Sudbury has 300+ lakes within the city limits.
Rental types in this Sudbury neighbourhood include lakeside homes, townhouses, and newer apartments.
Good for: Families, healthcare workers, and newcomers who love lakeside living.
Access: Near Health Sciences North, Science North, shopping, and conservation areas.
Vibe: Family-friendly, scenic, and active, with a high standard of living.
Rental range: Mid-range (1-bedroom $1,100-$1,800; 2-bedroom; $1,400–$2,200).
Why newcomers like it: Strong schools, parks, and shopping within walking or short driving distance.
One of Sudbury’s oldest neighbourhoods, Minnow Lake, offers proximity to downtown and scenic trails along Lake Ramsey, and the Kingsway shopping district, often at more affordable rental prices.
Rental types include a mix of older single-family homes and low-rise apartments.
Good for: Active newcomers, those seeking trails and beaches, and pet owners.
Access: Close to Moonlight Beach and off-leash dog parks.
Vibe: Relaxed and outdoorsy, with a small-town feel but close to amenities.
Rental range: Mid-range (1-bedroom $1,100-$1,800; 2-bedroom; $1,400–$2,200).
Why newcomers like it: Lakeside living at reasonable prices, plus outdoor recreation year-round.
This historic neighbourhood has deep French-Canadian roots and is a hub for the francophone community in Sudbury. Rental types include affordable apartments and older homes.
Good for: French-speaking newcomers, families seeking French-language schools, and renters seeking affordable housing.
Access: Close to downtown by car or bus.
Vibe: Historic and community-oriented, with strong French-Canadian roots.
Rental range: Budget to Moderate (1-bedroom under $1,500; 2-bedroom under $1,900).
Why newcomers like it: Lower rents and a strong sense of community make it easier to get established.
Known for its Italian-Canadian roots, Gatchell offers a close-knit community and affordable rental options near the popular Delki Dozzi Park, community pool, parks, and Dynamic Earth science centre. Rental types include older homes from the 1920s-40s on compact lots.
Good for: Budget renters and newcomers seeking a close-knit, multicultural neighbourhood.
Access: GOVA operates bus routes that connect Gatchell to the city center and other areas.
Vibe: Quiet, neighbourly, with a proud Italian heritage.
Rental range: Moderate (1-bedroom $1,100–$1,500; 2-bedroom $1,400–$1,900).
Why newcomers like it: Quiet streets, established community, and easy downtown access
Located beside Lake Ramsey, this neighbourhood combines scenic lake access with proximity to downtown, making it both relaxing and convenient. Bell Park offers beaches and walking trails.
Good for: Families, students, and nature enthusiasts seeking access to the city.
Access: Moderate (bus, bike paths, walkable to downtown)
Vibe: Picturesque and relaxed with a mix of housing styles.
Rental range: Upper range (1-bedroom over $1,800; 2-bedroom over $2,200).
Why newcomers like it: Beautiful surroundings, recreational access, and a peaceful atmosphere.
One of Sudbury’s oldest neighbourhoods, Donovan has a village-like charm and is home to many long-time residents and new immigrants alike. Rental types include small lot homes, heritage buildings, and affordable apartments.
Average rent is about $1,250 for a 1-bedroom and $1,650 for a 2-bedroom (Q2 2025, Rentals.ca). That’s 35–50% lower than Toronto or Ottawa.
Donovan, Gatchell, and Flour Mill offer more affordable rental options.
New Sudbury is best if you are attending Cambrian College or Collège Boréal
GOVA Transit operates 25+ routes connecting most major neighbourhoods through the primary transit hub downtown Sudbury.
Sudbury offers a variety of rental options for newcomers, from budget-friendly apartments in Donovan and Gatchell to premium lakeside living in areas like Ramsey Lake and the South End. You can use the rental range key to match your budget with the right neighbourhood. Choose based on what matters most: fast transit, a family-friendly area, or a lively urban vibe. Understanding the rental tiers will help you select the best Sudbury neighbourhood for your unique needs.
Once you’ve chosen a neighbourhood that matches your budget and lifestyle, check out our Living in Sudbury guide to learn more about jobs, culture, and life in the city.
WRITTEN BY
Corinna Frattini
Senior Editor, Prepare for Canada
Corinna Frattini is the Senior Editor and Content Director for Prepare for Canada. She contributes articles to help newcomers achieve their goals in key areas related to living, working, and settling in Canada. With an extensive background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on what Canadian employers seek and how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada.
© Prepare for Canada 2025
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