If you’re considering moving to Oakville and looking to rent, you’re not alone. Oakville has become one of the most desirable communities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), attracting families, professionals, and newcomers alike. Its balance of urban convenience and suburban charm, combined with strong schools and access to transit, makes Oakville a popular choice for renters.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the rental market in Oakville, neighbourhood options, transit access, schools, and recent trends in rental pricing.

Why Choose Oakville?

1. Top-Ranked Schools – Oakville is consistently recognized for its excellent public and private schools, including Iroquois Ridge, White Oaks, and Abbey Park. For families, this is often the #1 reason to move here.
2. Transit Access – Oakville is well-connected to Toronto and Hamilton via the Lakeshore West GO Train line. With multiple GO stations (Oakville, Bronte, and Clarkson nearby), commuting is straightforward for those working downtown.
3. Lifestyle – From Oakville’s vibrant waterfront and Bronte Harbour to Sheridan College’s cultural hub, the town blends outdoor living with urban amenities.
4. New Developments – Over the past few years, Oakville has seen a surge in new condominium buildings, particularly in Midtown Oakville (around Trafalgar and Dundas), Kerr Village, and along Dundas Street. These developments provide newcomers with modern rental options that didn’t exist a decade ago.

Oakville Neighbourhoods for Renters vs. Buyers

Oakville is known for its distinct neighbourhoods, each offering something different:

• Downtown Oakville: Upscale, historic, and walkable. Here you’ll find boutique rentals, luxury condos, and heritage homes. More suited for professionals and those who enjoy a lively, urban vibe.
• Kerr Village: Trendy and growing, Kerr Village offers condos and townhomes with walkable access to shops, cafes, and the waterfront. It’s popular with younger renters and first-time buyers.
• Bronte Village: West Oakville’s lakeside neighbourhood. It’s ideal for those seeking a balance of nature and lifestyle. Expect higher rents in newer lakefront condos but also some affordable rental apartments further inland.
• Uptown Core (Trafalgar & Dundas area): This is where many of Oakville’s newest condos and stacked townhomes are being built. A good mix of affordability (relative to Downtown) and modern living, appealing to newcomers.
• West Oak Trails & Glen Abbey: Primarily family-oriented with detached homes. Rentals here are usually full houses or basement apartments. Ideal for families prioritizing schools.
• East Oakville (Clearview, Morrison, Joshua Creek): Known for large luxury homes and excellent schools. Rentals are limited, but you might find executive homes for lease. More suited to buyers long term. Most importantly, the Oakville East neighborhoods give you an option to commute to Clarkson Go station which has 20 minute direct express trains to downtown Toronto during weekdays.

Rental Market Trends in Oakville

Oakville’s rental prices have climbed steadily in recent years, reflecting both demand and limited supply.

• Pre-2018: Average 1-bedroom rentals hovered around $1,600–$1,800. Detached homes could often be rented for under $3,000.
• 2019–2021: With population growth and new condo completions, 1-bedroom rents rose closer to $2,000, and detached homes jumped above $3,500.
• Post-2021: Oakville experienced the GTA-wide rental surge. By 2023–2024, average 1-bedroom condos were renting between $2,300–$2,700, with larger condos or townhomes often $3,000+. Detached family homes are now frequently listed between $3,500–$5,000+, depending on location and school zones.
• Basement apartments have proliferated across Oakville since 2021 and they provide spacious units at an affordable price. A typical 2 bedroom 1 bathroom basement apartment ranges between $1800 and $2200 per month in rent.

This trajectory shows Oakville’s strong demand as families and professionals increasingly prefer the community’s quality of life over downtown Toronto.

What Type of Rentals Are Available?

• Condos: Newer buildings with amenities like gyms, concierge, and underground parking. Popular in Uptown Core, Kerr Village, and Lakeshore areas.
• Townhomes: Great for families who want more space without the commitment of a detached house. Found across Oakville, especially north of Dundas.
• Detached Homes: More expensive but available throughout Oakville. Many are leased to families relocating or waiting to buy.
• Basement Apartments: Common and relatively affordable, especially in family neighbourhoods.

Tips for Newcomers Renting in Oakville

1. Prioritize Schools & Commute – Decide if proximity to GO stations or school zones is more important for your lifestyle.
2. Act Quickly – Rentals move fast, especially near top schools and transit.
3. Budget Realistically – A 2-bedroom condo can now cost $2,800–$3,200/month. Detached rentals are higher. A 2-bedroom basement apartment can cost $1800-$2200/month.
4. Explore Different Areas – Downtown offers walkability, Uptown offers modern convenience, and Bronte offers lakeside charm.
5. Check Condo Rules – Some condos restrict short-term rentals or pets.

Final Thoughts

Oakville has transformed into one of the most desirable rental destinations in the GTA. Whether you’re a professional seeking a modern condo near transit, a family looking for a home in a top school district, or a newcomer to Canada settling into a welcoming community, Oakville has a wide range of rental opportunities.

With its mix of new condominiums, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and easy access to Toronto, Oakville is more than just a suburb—it’s a lifestyle destination worth considering for your next move.