Finding the right student housing in Toronto can be one of the most stressful parts of university life, especially for those attending the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC). With the rental market becoming increasingly competitive in 2026, students are often faced with a critical decision: choose an unfurnished rental and handle the logistics themselves, or opt for fully furnished student apartments.
For most students, Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) offers the best balance of convenience, cost predictability, and lifestyle. These properties, such as The Els, provide fully furnished suites, all-inclusive utilities, and student-centric amenities that private landlords rarely offer. This guide compares the best housing options near UTSC, breaks down the true costs of furnishing an apartment, and provides a move-in checklist for the upcoming academic year.
What Are Fully Furnished Student Apartments?
Fully furnished student apartments are rental units specifically designed for students that come equipped with all essential furniture and appliances required for immediate living. Unlike “partially furnished” units which might only include major appliances, a fully furnished student suite typically includes a bed frame and mattress, a study desk and chair, a wardrobe or dresser, and shared living area furniture like sofas and dining sets.
In the context of student housing in Scarborough, fully furnished options are increasingly popular among international students and those from outside the GTA who cannot transport furniture.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished: A Cost Breakdown
When comparing student apartments in Toronto, the sticker price of rent is only part of the equation. While unfurnished units may appear cheaper monthly, the upfront setup costs in 2026 can be substantial.
The Hidden Costs of Unfurnished Rentals
To set up an empty apartment near UTSC, a student typically incurs the following one-time costs:
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Bedroom Essentials (Bed, Mattress, Nightstand): $800 – $1,200
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Study Setup (Desk, Ergonomic Chair, Lamp): $300 – $600
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Living Room (Sofa, Coffee Table, TV): $1,000 – $2,000
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Kitchenware & Small Appliances: $300 – $500
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Moving Truck/Delivery Fees: $200 – $500
Total Estimated Upfront Cost: $2,600 – $4,800+
The Value of Furnished PBSA
In contrast, furnished student apartments bundle these costs into the monthly rent. For a property like The Els, the value extends beyond just furniture. It includes high-speed internet, utilities, and access to amenities (gyms, study rooms), eliminating the volatility of variable utility bills and the hassle of buying and selling furniture.
The 4 Best Student Housing Options Near UTSC
Based on proximity, amenities, and value, here are the top categories of housing options for UTSC students in 2026.
1. Premium Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Best for: Students seeking luxury, convenience, and community.
This is the emerging gold standard for student housing apartments. These buildings are privately owned but designed specifically for students. They offer the independence of an off-campus apartment with the community feel of a residence.
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Top Choice: The Els (Toronto)
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Pros: Fully furnished, all-inclusive utilities, modern amenities (fitness centers, game rooms), individual liability leases, and close proximity to UTSC.
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Cons: High demand means units fill up quickly.
2. On-Campus Residence
Best for: First-year students wanting the traditional dorm experience.
UTSC offers several on-campus residence halls. These are convenient but often lack the privacy and modern finishes of newer off-campus developments.
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Pros: Walk to class in minutes, integrated university support.
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Cons: Often shared bedrooms, mandatory meal plans (in some cases), and strict move-out dates during holidays.
3. Private Condo Rentals
Best for: Upper-year students with established roommate groups.
Scarborough has many condo towers where individual landlords rent units. While modern, they are rarely furnished specifically for students.
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Pros: High-end finishes, privacy.
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Cons: Usually unfurnished, requires 12-month lease, no individual liability (if one roommate leaves, you pay their share), utilities often extra.
4. Basement Apartments / Shared Houses
Best for: Budget-conscious students.
The neighborhoods surrounding UTSC (like Highland Creek) have many single-family homes converted into student rentals.
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Pros: Generally the lowest monthly rent.
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Cons: Often dark (basements), lack of soundproofing, inconsistent landlord quality, and rarely includes modern amenities or reliable high-speed internet.
Move-In Checklist: What to Look For
When evaluating student housing apartments near me, use this checklist to ensure the “furnished” package meets your needs. A true turnkey solution should provide:
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Sleeping: Double or Queen bed with mattress (check for hygiene covers).
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Study: Dedicated desk with ample surface area and a comfortable chair.
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Storage: Built-in wardrobes or dressers sufficient for a full wardrobe.
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Connectivity: High-speed Wi-Fi included in the rent (essential for coursework).
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Living: Sofa and entertainment stand in the common area.
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Kitchen: Full-sized appliances (fridge, stove, microwave, dishwasher).
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Laundry: In-suite washer and dryer (avoid buildings with coin-op basements).
Why The Els is the Top Choice for UTSC Students
For students prioritizing a hassle-free transition to university life, The Els stands out as the premier option in the Scarborough market. Unlike private landlords who may offer mismatched, used furniture, The Els provides modern, designer-selected furnishings tailored to student needs.
The Els distinguishes itself through:
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Turnkey Living: Move in with just your suitcase; the heavy lifting is done.
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Academic Focus: Suites are designed with study spaces, and the building features dedicated quiet zones.
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Financial Clarity: One bill covers rent, furniture, internet, and utilities, making budgeting simple for students and parents.
By choosing a dedicated student community like The Els, residents avoid the “furniture poverty” trap—living with inadequate furnishings to save money—and instead enjoy a professional, supportive environment conducive to academic success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it cheaper to rent furnished or unfurnished in Toronto?
While unfurnished rent is slightly lower month-to-month, the upfront cost of buying furniture ($2,000+) and moving it often makes furnished student apartments more economical for students staying for 1-3 years.
What is included in The Els student housing?
The Els typically includes a fully furnished suite (bed, desk, chair, living room furniture), high-speed internet, utilities, and access to building amenities like fitness centers and social lounges.
Do international students need a guarantor for housing?
Most private landlords require a Canadian guarantor. However, PBSA providers like The Els often have specific programs or simplified processes for international students to secure housing without a local guarantor.
How far in advance should I book student housing near UTSC?
For the best options, specifically for September move-ins, students should begin looking in January or February of the same year. High-demand buildings often reach capacity by early spring.
