Apartments Near Centennial College in Scarborough: What Students Should Compare Before Signing

Navigating the search for student housing in Scarborough can be overwhelming, but in 2026, Scarborough has solidified its status as the city’s premier “value play” for students. Offering modern living at a 20-30% discount compared to the downtown core, the eastern end of the city provides excellent opportunities for those enrolled at Centennial College.

However, finding the right apartment requires more than just looking at the monthly rent. Whether you are comparing private rentals, on-campus residences, or Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), this comprehensive guide will help you analyse the true costs, commute times, and lease structures of student housing in Scarborough.

What is Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)?

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) refers to private apartment complexes designed specifically for university and college students. Unlike traditional private rentals, PBSA properties offer individual lease liability, fully furnished suites, and academic-focused amenities like dedicated study rooms and commercial-grade Wi-Fi. In 2026, the shift toward PBSA in Scarborough is largely driven by the demand for a more secure, structured environment that protects students from the financial risks of shared private rentals.

Step 1: Compare Furnished vs. Unfurnished Costs

Students often underestimate the upfront cost of furnishing an empty apartment. When comparing your options, you must factor in the “hidden” costs of buying furniture and moving.

An unfurnished standard one-bedroom apartment in Scarborough averages $1,950 per month according to TheRentalMarket.ca. However, students must budget an additional $1,500 to $3,000 for basic furniture (bed, desk, chair, sofa) and moving expenses.

Conversely, fully furnished units have grown in popularity due to their convenience, especially for international and out-of-province students. PBSA options like The Els, which start at approximately $1,469 per month, come fully furnished. Recent market analysis shows that furnished rentals can actually be more cost-effective over a 12-month period when you eliminate moving fees and furniture disposal costs at the end of your lease, as noted by Narcity.

Step 2: Analyse All-Inclusive vs. Split Utilities

Budgeting for a private rental in Scarborough often involves monthly fees that are excluded from the base rent. Always ask landlords exactly what is included before signing a lease.

Private rentals typically exclude hydro (electricity), water, and high-speed internet. In 2026, these essential utilities can add $150 to $250 per month to your total living costs, according to Rentser.

On the other hand, PBSA and on-campus residences like Centennial Place typically offer most utilities. This covers heat, air conditioning, tenant insurance, monthly in-suite cleaning, and commercial-grade high-speed Wi-Fi, which is absolutely essential for modern coursework and virtual lectures.

Step 3: Map Your Commute by Centennial Campus

Centennial College operates multiple campuses across Scarborough, meaning “proximity” varies significantly depending on your specific program. Always map your commute using public transit before committing to a neighbourhood.

• Morningside Campus (Health Sciences): Located at 755 Morningside Ave, this campus is highly accessible from the Ellesmere corridor. Housing options in this area are exceptionally close—often within 1.5km—making it a walkable or very short bus ride for health science students.

• Progress Campus (Business/Hospitality): Located at 941 Progress Ave. While some housing is directly on-site, students living near the UTSC/Ellesmere corridor face a manageable 25 to 35-minute commute via TTC bus routes such as the 902 Express or 102A, according to Moovit.

While Scarborough remains a vehicle-heavy area, the primary student corridors are well-served by the TTC and GO Transit, making a car unnecessary for most students.

Step 4: Evaluate Study Spaces and Amenities

Modern student success is increasingly linked to the quality of the living environment. A 2026 report from The Globe and Mail suggests that students in structured, campus-connected housing graduate at rates 15% higher than those in scattered private rentals.

When touring apartments, compare the lifestyle and academic amenities provided:

Step 5: Understand Lease Structures (Individual vs. Joint Liability)

The legal structure of your lease is one of the most critical “fine print” items to review. It dictates your financial responsibility if a roommate fails to pay rent.

Joint Liability (Private Rentals): If you rent a multi-bedroom house with friends under a standard private lease, you are typically signing a joint lease. If one person leaves unexpectedly or stops paying rent, the remaining tenants are legally responsible for covering the full amount.

Individual Liability (PBSA): Modern student residences use individual leases. This means you are only financially responsible for your specific bed space. If a roommate moves out, it does not affect your credit, your rent, or your standing with the property management.

The Els: A Modern Solution for Centennial Students

For Centennial College Morningside students, housing near the Ellesmere corridor provides a strategic advantage, placing them within walking distance of both academic facilities and the lush natural amenities of the Highland Creek valley.

The Els is a premium PBSA option that offers modern suites that cater to the lifestyle demands of students. By blending high-end finishes with academic-focused amenities—and offering the financial protection of individual leases—it serves as a top-tier alternative to traditional on-campus housing for students who want independence without sacrificing a secure, community-focused environment.

Conclusion

Securing the right student housing in Scarborough requires looking beyond the monthly sticker price. By comparing the hidden costs of unfurnished units, factoring in utility bills, mapping your specific campus commute, and prioritizing individual lease structures, you can make an informed decision. As the student housing Scarborough market continues to evolve in 2026, choosing a residence that supports both your academic goals and your budget is the first step toward a successful college experience.