Toronto rent is no joke. We all know living in the 6ix can get expensive real quick, but did you know that you can find incredible and affordable places to live just outside of the city limits? That is why we’ve rounded up eight apartments for rent near Toronto so you can live your best life on a budget. Despite rent prices having dropped in many Toronto neighbourhoods recently, the fact remains that $1,500 doesn’t always get you very far in the 6ix, especially in the downtown core. In fact, according to a recent study by PadMapper, the average cost of a studio apartment in Toronto is actually $1,800 as of June 2020. $1,800 to have your bed next to the oven and the toilet? No thanks. But don’t worry, all is not lost. From Hamilton to the Durham Region and even East York, there are plenty of great spots for you to call home, for cheaper than you might think. And they’re not too far from your favourite city spots, either. So if you’re in the market for some new digs, take a look at these hidden gems below. Main Street Price: $1,175 Address: 100 Main St. E., Hamilton, ON Description: This bright and cozy unit has a spacious living area and a balcony with some impressive city views. Main Street | Rentals.ca View Here Surrey Lane Price: Starting at $1,300 Address: Surrey Ln., Burlington, ON Description: You can find one-bedroom units from $1,450 and two-bedroom units from $1,300 here. The hardwood floors and wooden cupboards add a warm, cozy feeling to the space. Surrey Lane | Rentals.ca View Here Grandville Avenue Price: $1,445 Address: 40 Grandville Ave., Hamilton, ON Description: These sleek units come with stainless steel appliances and yes, dishwashers are available. Grandville Avenue | Rentals.ca View Here Regency Place Price: $1,395 Address: 15 Regency Cres., Whitby, ON Description: You can enjoy beautiful balcony views of the lovely surrounding neighbourhood, which generally caters to an older demographic including mature adults and seniors.* Regency Crescent | Rentals.ca View Here Marland Avenue Price: $1,473 Address: 321-349 Marland Ave., Oshawa, ON Description: With adorable subway tiles lining the kitchen and bathroom, this apartment has a modern minimalist vibe that we adore. Marland Avenue | Rentals.ca View Here The Citadel Price: $1,599 Address: 701 Don Mills Rd., East York, ON Description: Okay, so this one might be $99 over budget, but most units here come with gorgeous balconies or a solarium where you could let your plant collection grow wild. The Citadel | Rentals.ca View Here Bay Street Price: $1,100 Address: 200 Bay St. S., Hamilton, ON Description: These super cute units are made even better by the amenities offered in this building. As a bonus, heat and water are included in the rent. Bay Street | Rentals.ca View Here Spalding Road Price: $1,250 Address: 47 Spalding Rd., North York, ON Description: Okay, this building comes with air conditioning and utilities and internet are included. Where do we sign up? Spalding Road | Rentals.ca View Here *This article has been updated.