Accommodations - North of 60

Housing rental (Economy) FAQ

• What does rental vacancy look like in Yellowknife?
  There are very few, if any, 1 or 2 bedroom rentals available. Shared accommodation (roommate) may be easier to find but often will have many people competing for the same space. Most rentals are not pet friendly.
• What is the average rent in Yellowknife?
  A 1 bedroom in shared accommodation (roommates) can average $1,200 a month. A two or three bedroom rental can average $2,500-$3,000 a month + utilities and 4+ bedroom houses can average $4,000+ a month + utilities.
• What is the average cost for utilities?
  That will depend on the size of your home, how much power is used and the type of heat source. Overall, heating oil is more costly than propane. Be sure to ask your landlord for details.
• Are there areas of the City to avoid renting in?
  Some neighbourhoods or apartment complexes are less desirable than others due to excess activity or police presence. Also, some landlords are known to not take care of their properties with repairs often going untouched for long periods of time.
  
  To get more information contact the MFRC at info.nof60@cfmws.com.
• Is it better to rent or to purchase a house?
  One is not necessarily better than the other. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Availability of rentals is the most common issue.
  
  For a deeper discussion please contact the MFRC at 867-873-0700 ext. 766-6859. 
• Is storage expensive in Yellowknife?
  The cost of storage is often high with most units not being heated. Some storage facilities are simply a bunch of shipping containers in a secured lot.
  
  For a list of storage facilities, please contact the MFRC at info.nof60@cfmws.com.  
• What can I expect from properties in Yellowknife?
  Here are a few things to expect when looking at properties:

  • Most homes do not have basements and those with them are often unfinished and may have natural rock exposed.
  • Yards are mostly rocky, small and often do not have grass.
  • Some yards may not be fenced.
  • Parking is limited in some areas however street parking is often available for second vehicles or larger toys (boats, trailers, etc.).
  • Most homes do not have garages. Some may have sheds instead.
  • Some neighbourhoods are built quite tightly together and are often mobile homes.
• Are there allowances for military members living on economy?
  Yes, please look at the Isolation Allowance section of the Yellowknife Posting Handbook: Financial Considerations - North of 60
• Will I be living close to amenities?
  Everything in the city of Yellowknife is within a 10 to 15 min drive. Grocery stores, gas stations, clinics, schools and parks are available at either end of town.
  
  It’s also quite easy to get out of the city and onto the land. You don’t have to go far to enjoy nature.