Travel Nurse Housing in Canada: Stipends, Rentals & Safety
Finding housing as a travel nurse in Canada can feel overwhelming. From choosing between a housing stipend or agency-provided housing, to worrying about scams and whether you can bring your pet, there are countless questions nurses ask online.
To make life easier, this guide answers the top accommodation questions travel nurses in Canada frequently ask—with tips from industry experts, trusted housing platforms, and real experiences shared by nurses on Reddit.
1. Who pays for travel nurse housing in Canada—agency or nurse?
Agencies typically offer two housing options:
Agency-provided housing: Fully furnished and convenient, but with limited choice.
Tax-free housing stipend: More flexibility and potential savings if you secure your own rental.
Source: HCTRavelNursing.com
2. What does the travel nurse housing stipend cover in Canada?
Housing stipends follow Canadian regional GSA rates and are often tax-free if you maintain a valid tax home. They usually cover rent but may not include extras like utilities, pet deposits, or parking fees.
Source: Advantis Medical
3. What should I look for when choosing housing?
When selecting furnished housing for travel nurses in Canada, consider:
Commute time to the hospital or clinic
Safety of the neighborhood
Furnished vs. unfurnished rentals
Included utilities and internet
Parking availability
Lease flexibility for assignment changes
4. Can I bring pets or share housing?
Yes! Many landlords in Canada offer pet-friendly rentals, but you should always confirm deposits or restrictions upfront.
Sharing housing with other travel nurses is also common—it reduces costs and provides companionship during contracts.
5. When should I start booking housing?
Start your search at least 4–6 weeks before your Canadian travel nurse contract begins. In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary, competition for short-term furnished rentals can be high due to local events or university semesters.
6. What happens if my assignment changes?
Extension: Ask landlords about month-to-month options or renewal terms.
Early termination: Agency-provided housing is easier to exit. Independent leases may carry penalties.
Source: Ashly Jean Housing Guide
7. How can I avoid rental scams in Canada?
Travel nurses often face scams when booking housing. Red flags include:
Rent that seems “too good to be true”
Requests for wire transfers or no official lease
Listings with stock photos
Stick to trusted sites like Travel Nurse Houses, Airbnb, Cozy Cozy, Home to go, Flatio, Furnished Finder,Rentals.ca, Booking.com, Liv.rent, and VRBO.
Reddit users also warn about fake listings on Facebook groups and recommend requesting video tours.
(Reddit Travel Nursing Discussion)
8. How do I make temporary housing feel like home?
Pack small comforts like photos, throw blankets, and candles
Choose a cozy corner for relaxation
Explore your neighborhood quickly to feel connected
Stay in touch with family and friends via video calls
Sources: AllNurses Housing Wishlist, The Gypsy Nurse
9. What do real nurses say about housing in Canada?
On sharing amenities:
“I wouldn’t share a bathroom. Kitchen/living room is fine though.”
(Reddit Travel Nursing)
On platforms:
“Airbnb works, but the fees add up fast.”
“Furnished Finder listings are often outdated—always confirm availability.”
(Reddit Travel Nursing)
On must-have features:
“Laundry onsite is a must. A backyard is a bonus for pets.”
(AllNurses Housing Wishlist)
10. Best platforms for travel nurse housing in Canada
Airbnb – flexible, trusted hosts, often with monthly discounts
Furnished Finder – travel nurse-specific filters
Travel Nurse Houses, VRBO, Apartments.com – good for extended or furnished stays
Source: Advantis Medical
11. How much do travel nurses get paid in Canada?
Reddit User: “You can expect to be compensated between $60 to $70 dollars per hour these days. Keep in mind you’d have to be duplicating expenses to receive tax-free stipends.” (reddit.com)
Reddit User: “BC rates are about $60 an hour Canadian, which is $41.26 USD. Your accommodations are provided. Depending on the agency, they will just assign you a place to stay or you front the Airbnb and send the receipt to the travel agency and are reimbursed.” (reddit.com)
12. Is housing stipend tax-free when filing T4?
Reddit User: “My accountant said it is taxable unless I declare non-residency in Canada, which would mean I have to stop paying my BC nursing license, clear out my TFSA etc.” (reddit.com)
13. How do I find approved housing for travel nurses?
Facebook Group Post: “Does anyone know of message boards, company websites that you can apply to be on approved housing for travel nurses?” (facebook.com)
Facebook Group Post: “Travel Nurse Houses offer fully furnished monthly rentals perfect for your assignments across Canada.” (facebook.com)
Quick Reference
| Question | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| Who pays? | Stipend vs. agency housing. Stipend = flexibility. |
| Stipend details | Tax-free if tax home is maintained. |
| What to look for | Safety, commute, utilities, furniture, flexible lease. |
| Pets & roommates | Confirm policies. Many prefer private bathrooms. |
| When to book | Start 4–6 weeks ahead, especially in big cities. |
| Assignment changes | Month-to-month leases give flexibility. |
| Avoiding scams | Use trusted sites, request video tours. |
| Feeling at home | Bring personal comforts, connect locally. |
| Platforms | Airbnb, Travel Nurse Houses, VRBO, etc. |
Where can I List my Home to Gain Traction from Canadian Travel Nurses
Navigating travel nurse housing in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding stipends, planning ahead, and booking through trusted platforms, you can secure furnished housing that fits your budget and lifestyle.
If you’re a travel nurse looking for safe, flexible, and nurse-friendly rentals in Canada, explore the latest listings on Travel Nurse Houses today.
