Planning a move to a senior living residence is an important step that deserves careful thought. Among the questions most often asked by future residents and their families, rent cost is usually a top priority. Understanding the factors that influence these costs, the available options, and potential financial assistance can greatly simplify the decision-making process. This article provides an overview of rental costs in Quebec’s senior living residences in 2025, along with practical tips to help you prepare for this transition.
2025 Table of Average Rental Prices in Senior Living Residences
Source: Prices based on data provided by Bonjour Résidences’ partner senior living residences in Quebec, in 2024.
| Regions | Average Rent for Standard Housing | Average Rent for Accommodation with Care | Average Rent per Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montreal | $2,324 | $4,603 | Single Room: $2,534 Studio: $1,808 1 bedroom: $2,290 2 bedrooms +: $3,149 |
| Capitale-Nationale | $2,307 | $3,854 | Single Room: $2,279 Studio: $1,876 1 bedroom: $2,377 2 bedrooms +: $3,042 |
| Montérégie and South Shore | $2,181 | $3,556 | Single Room: $2,501 Studio: $2,008 1 bedroom: $2,355 2 bedrooms +: $3,165 |
| North Shore | $2,373 | $3,800 | Single Room: 2,703 $ Studio: $2,176 1 bedroom: $2,285 2 bedrooms +: $2,995 |
| Centre-du-Québec | $1,904 | $3,379 | Single Room: $1,937 Studio: $2,009 1 bedroom: $2,002 2 bedrooms +: $2,460 |
| Chaudière-Appalache | $1,974 | $3,117 | Single Room: $2,002 Studio: $1,960 1 bedroom: $2,196 2 bedrooms +: $2,609 |
| Sherbrooke | $2,072 | $4,433 | Single Room: $1,933 Studio: $1,840 1 bedroom: $2,196 2 bedrooms +: $2,924 |
| Lanaudière | $1,999 | $3,566 | Single Room: $2,008 Studio: $1,742 1 bedroom: $1,975 2 bedrooms +: $2,500 |
| Gatineau/Outaouais | $2,038 | N/A | Single Room: $1,902 Studio: $2,000 1 bedroom: $2,300 2 bedrooms +: $3,000 |
| Abitibi-Témiscamingue | $2,309 | N/A | Single Room: $1,880 Studio: $1,842 1 bedroom: $2,416 2 bedrooms +: N/A |
| Bas-Saint-Laurent | $2,312 | $3,323 | Single Room: $2,069 Studio: $2,102 1 bedroom: $2,160 2 bedrooms +: $2,591 |
| Côte-Nord | $2,579 | N/A | N/A |
| Estrie | $1,974 | N/A | Single Room: $1,987 Studio: $1,854 1 bedroom: $2,040 2 bedrooms +: $2,511 |
| Gaspésie/Îles-de-la-Madeline | $1,969 | N/A | Single Room: $2,028 Studio: N/A 1 bedroom: $2,300 2 bedrooms +: N/A |
| Laurentides | $2,112 | $3,040 | Single Room: $2,261 Studio: $1,955 1 bedroom: $1.976 2 bedrooms +: $2,491 |
| Mauricie | $1,988 | N/A | Single Room: $1,842 Studio: $1,750 1 bedroom: $2,255 2 bedrooms+: $2,979 |
| Northern Quebec | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean | $1,833 | N/A | Single Room: $2,030 Studio: $1,593 1 bedroom: $2,157 2 bedrooms +: $2,646 |
| Laval | $2,302 | $4,071 | Single Room: $2,311 Studio: $1,800 1 bedroom: $2,077 2 bedrooms +: $2,893 |
What Factors Influence Rent Cost in Senior Living Residences?
Unit Size
The size of the unit remains a key factor. The larger the unit, the higher the rent. Senior living residences offer a range of options, from single rooms to 2 ½, 3 ½, 4 ½ and 5 ½ apartments.
Choosing the right size depends on individual needs and budget. For example:
- A couple might prefer an apartment with a separate bedroom for more privacy and comfort.
- A single person might find a studio sufficient and more economical.
Influence of Services and Common Areas
The choice of senior living residences also depends on the services and common spaces offered. Some residents prioritize social common areas, while others look for specific services such as housekeeping or included meals.
Assessing Your Needs Before Choosing
Before selecting a unit, it is essential to assess your needs and budget. Analyzing the available options allows you to find a senior living residence that perfectly matches your lifestyle and financial situation.
Additional Costs to Plan For
When planning for life in a senior living residence, it is crucial to consider potential additional costs beyond the base rent.
Additional Service Fees
Some specialized services may incur extra fees, such as:
- Health Care Services: nursing care, personal assistance, or medication management
- Recreational Activities: organized programs, outings, or workshops that may be billed separately
- Meal Services: while some meals are included, additional options, such as guest meals, may incur costs
Personal Expenses to Include
Beyond the services offered by the senior living residence, it is important to include personal expenses in your budget, such as:
- Medication and other health products
- Insurance, whether home or health
- Costs related to leisure and external activities
Understanding the Senior Living Residence Lease
Before moving in, it is essential to understand the terms of a senior living residence lease. The contract specifies the rent amount, duration, included services, and termination conditions. Most leases last one year and are automatically renewable, though some senior living residences offer short-term stays. Always read each clause carefully and ask questions before signing. If in doubt, the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL) can provide guidance.
- Signing a Lease in Senior Living: What You Need to Know
- Understanding Schedule 6 of the Lease in Senior Living
- Terminating a Lease to Move into Senior Living
How to Create a Retirement Budget?
Moving into a senior living residence is a major decision that requires thoughtful financial preparation. Our "Where to Start" page includes a section dedicated to budgeting. Here, you will find a practical tool to list your income sources, such as salaries, pensions, or RRSPs, and outline your main expenses, like electricity, groceries, and other monthly costs. This clear, structured approach helps you visualize your financial situation and plan your transition to a senior living residence with confidence.
Many private senior living residences offer all-inclusive packages that cover various services, making it easier to manage your finances while enhancing daily comfort. For a deeper understanding, see our article “What Is the True Cost of Senior Home Support?”, which provides a useful comparison of expenses for each option to help you make the best choice.
Tax Credits and Financial Support for Seniors
You may be eligible for government financial support, which can significantly reduce costs. Additionally, several resources are available to help you understand savings strategies and tax credits you may qualify for.
- Am I Eligible for Seniors Tax Credits and Allowances?
- Tax Credit for Seniors in Private Residences in Quebec
- Tax Credits: Savings for Caregivers
- 2025 Old Age Security Pension Payment Schedule
For more information, please visit the following links:
Planning Your Transition Smoothly into a Senior Living Residence
Choosing a senior living residence is an important decision that involves significant financial considerations. With proper planning and by exploring available assistance options, it is possible to find a senior living residence that meets your needs while staying within your budget. Contact the senior housing specialists at Bonjour Résidences by phone at 1-844-918-1020 or by filling out an online request. We will be happy to guide you through this transition to a new stage of life.