Are Furnished Apartments Worth It?

If you’ve ever tried to rent an apartment in a Canadian city, you’ve likely noticed the choice between furnished and unfurnished units. At first, the idea of walking into a home that’s already set up — sofa, bed, dining table, maybe even kitchen appliances — sounds pretty great. But the reality isn’t that simple. The real question is whether that convenience is worth paying more rent every month.

What You Actually Get With a Furnished Apartment

A fully furnished apartment usually means it comes ready to live in — furniture, kitchen basics, maybe a few dishes, and the odd lamp. You can show up with your suitcase, plug in your laptop, and feel settled.

But not every landlord means the same thing by “furnished.” Some places are what they call semi furnished — you might get the big stuff like a bed or couch but still need to buy your own coffee table or chairs. A few are partially furnished, which can mean almost anything. Before you sign anything, ask for a detailed list so you know exactly what’s included.

Are Furnished Apartments More Expensive?

Usually, yes. Furnished rentals tend to cost more because the landlord provides and maintains the furniture. You’re paying for the convenience — and for the risk the owner takes if something breaks. Expect to see anywhere from 10 to 25 percent higher rent than a comparable unfurnished apartment, sometimes more if the place is short-term or downtown.

That said, there are situations where it balances out. If you’re staying six months or less, the initial cost of buying new furniture and arranging delivery could easily outweigh the difference in monthly rent. You’ll also save on moving furniture, which isn’t cheap in cities like Montreal or Toronto.

Is It Better to Rent a Furnished or Unfurnished Apartment?

It really depends on what stage of life you’re in.

A furnished unit is great for young professionals, people relocating for work, or students who don’t want to bother with furniture shopping. It’s the easiest way to move to a new city and start living right away.

If you already own furniture or expect to stay for several years, an unfurnished rental usually makes more sense. You can make the space your own and pay a little less every month. Over time, that difference adds up.

There’s also something to be said for comfort — using your own mattress, your own dishes, your own sense of style. A furnished place often feels temporary, even if you’ve been there a while.

Can I Remove Furniture from a Furnished Apartment?

You can, but only if your property manager agrees. Everything in the apartment technically belongs to the rental property owner, so moving or storing items without permission could lead to deductions from your security deposit. Some property managers are flexible and will remove unwanted pieces if you ask ahead of time, but always get it in writing.

Do Apartments Usually Come Furnished in Canada?

Not really. Most long-term rental properties in Canada are unfurnished. Furnished units tend to appear in high-traffic neighbourhoods, near schools, hospitals, or downtown business areas where short term tenants are common.

In Montreal, furnished properties are easier to find than in many cities. Sites like montreal-aparthotel.com cater to newcomers and professionals who want fully furnished rentals with flexible lease terms — a big help if you’re arriving from abroad or still deciding how long you’ll stay.

The Real Cost of Convenience

When people ask whether furnished apartments are worth it, what they usually mean is: will I save or lose money? The honest answer is: both, depending on your situation.

You’ll pay higher rent and possibly a higher deposit, but you won’t have to deal with significant upfront expense for furniture. You’ll skip delivery costs, storage, and the headache of selling everything when you leave. But if you stay longer than a year or two, that extra rent starts to add up.

It’s a trade-off between time and money — and between feeling “settled” versus staying flexible.

The Bottom Line

For people moving often, starting fresh, or living temporarily, renting furnished can be a smart, low-stress option. For everyone else, especially those setting down roots, an unfurnished rental property gives more freedom, personality, and long-term value.

No matter which route you take, make sure the space feels right — not just in terms of furniture, but how it fits your life. In the end, that’s what makes any apartment truly worth it.