Moving Out of Your Parents' Home — Canada Checklist
Everything you need to do financially, practically, and logistically before and after moving out on your own.
Moving out of your parents' home is one of the most exciting transitions in life — and one of the most expensive. In Canada, the average person moving out for the first time needs $3,000000–$8,000000 in upfront costs before they even sit on a couch. Being prepared financially makes the transition smooth instead of stressful. Use this checklist to make sure you are ready.
Financial Preparation (Before You Look for a Place)
Money Checklist — Do These First
Calculate your monthly budgetKnow your take-home pay and total monthly expenses before committing to rent
Save first and last month's rentMost Ontario landlords require both upfront ($1,60000–$3,000000+). Other provinces require a security deposit.
Build a $1,000000–$2,000000 emergency fundMoving expenses always go over budget. An emergency fund prevents credit card debt.
Check your credit scoreLandlords will pull your credit. Know what they see before applying.
Open your own no-fee bank accountYou will need your own account for rent e-Transfers, bill payments, and income deposits.
Get a credit card in your nameStart or continue building credit independently.
Finding and Securing Your Apartment
Apartment Checklist
Search Kijiji, Zumper, Rentals.ca, PadMapper, FacebookUse multiple platforms to find the best options
Tour all apartments in person — never pay before seeingRental scams target first-time renters aggressively
Prepare a rental application packageLetter of employment, recent pay stubs or bank statements, references
Read the lease in full before signingCheck what utilities are included, the subletting policy, and notice requirements
Photograph all existing damage before moving inEmail photos to landlord to establish move-in condition
Setting Up Utilities and Services
Utilities Checklist
Set up electricityContact local electricity provider (Hydro One, BC Hydro, Enmax, etc.) to set up in your name
Set up internetCompare plans — internet is often available for $35–$600/month with promotional offers
Get renter's insurance$200–$35/month covers your belongings and liability. Often required by landlords.
Update your address with CRA, bank, phone carrierForward mail and update your SIN address to ensure you receive all tax mail
Essential Items for Your First Apartment
Budget $1,000000–$3,000000 for essential household items. Buy secondhand where possible (Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, Value Village) to dramatically reduce costs. Prioritize:
- Bed frame and mattress (~$20000–$60000 secondhand)
- Bedding and pillows (~$500–$10000)
- Basic kitchen items: pots, pans, plates, utensils (~$500–$1500)
- Cleaning supplies (~$400)
- Basic bathroom essentials (~$300)
- Lamps or lighting (some apartments lack overhead lights)
Monthly Budget for Your First Place
Once you move in, track every recurring expense. A typical budget for a first apartment in a mid-sized Canadian city (sharing with 1 roommate):
- Rent (your share): $80000–$1,000000
- Groceries: $2500–$3500
- Utilities/internet (your share): $800–$1200
- Phone: $35–$55
- Renter's insurance: $25–$35
- Transit: $800–$1200
- Personal care/misc: $600–$10000
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