Rent rates on the rise: Are international students to blame?

Author

The Pulse by DB8
August 29, 2023

Hockey, maple syrup, and international students – three things that have put Canada on the map. But are these students also to blame for the country's housing crisis? Some believe that international students are worsening the shortage and driving up rental prices, while others argue that pointing fingers overlooks the deeper-rooted problems of housing supply and affordability.

The Pulse Results (16 Votes) 📈

Side A 6.25% - International students exacerbate the housing shortage and drive up rental prices

Side B 93.75% - Blaming international students ignores the larger issues of housing supply and affordability

Poll closed: August 30, 2023

Published on: August 25, 2023
Published by: BBC News 

Canada is currently in the midst of a serious housing affordability crisis, and the conversation around potential solutions is hotter than a Tim’s double-double. One idea on the table? Putting a cap on the number of international students allowed into the country. Housing Minister Sean Fraser has thrown this suggestion into the ring, hoping it might help tackle the soaring costs of housing… but this idea has definitely received some pushback.

Many argue that blaming international students is a simplistic solution to a much bigger problem. It's not just about international students ruffling feathers; it's about inflation, population growth, a lack of new housing construction, and a whole host of other factors. Simply limiting international students won't magically make those underlying, systemic issues disappear.

Others are convinced that international students are only making matters worse when it comes to the housing shortage and skyrocketing rental prices. With a record number of over 800,000 international students flooding Canada in 2022 alone, it's no wonder the housing supply is feeling the strain.

Both sides make some valid points that can't be ignored, and we’re here to give you the rundown!

The Debate Showdown

Side A: International students exacerbate the housing shortage and drive up rental prices

  • International students often come from wealthy families with $ to spend. In areas with a significant international student population, landlords might favour this demographic, leaving local renters with fewer options and higher prices.

  • There isn’t enough housing to accommodate the growing population we already have. Canadians are simply running out of options for housing - both rental options & purchasing options. In many cases, international students and their families purchase local real estate, viewing it as a long-term investment or accommodation for the student, which contributes to housing market volatility and availability.

  • Limiting the number of international students can help alleviate the pressure on the housing market. By capping the number of international students, even for the short-term, Canada can better manage the demand for housing and ensure that there is enough affordable supply to meet the needs of both Canadian residents and international students. This would help stabilize rental prices and make housing more affordable for all in the long-term.

Side B: Blaming international students ignores the larger issues of housing supply and affordability

  • Blaming international students for the housing shortage oversimplifies a complex issue. The crisis is rooted in a lack of affordable housing supply and rising home prices, which are the result of various factors including inflation and rising interest rates (factors that these poor students didn’t cause!). We can’t use international students as scapegoats to avoid addressing bigger underlying issues.

  • Being an international student in Canada isn’t cheap. The influx of international students has a positive economic impact on local communities. They contribute to the local economy through their tuition fees, spending on goods and services, and potentially future contributions as skilled workers.

  • International students enhance diversity and cultural exchange in Canada and our reputation as a welcoming and inclusive country is strengthened by the presence of people from all over the world. They bring diverse perspectives, cultural experiences, and contribute to the cultural fabric of Canadian society. They are the very foundation of what makes Canada, Canada.

Previous Debate

Airbnb VS. Hotels

Planning a trip is an adventure in itself, and choosing the right accommodation adds an extra thrill (or stress!) to the mix. Whether you're a fan of the quirky Airbnb vibe or prefer the reliability of traditional hotels, the decision of where to stay can make or break your travel experience.

debates.db8.com/p/airbnb-vs-hotels

The Pulse Results (14 Votes) 📈

Side A 28.57% - Airbnb offers unique accommodations for unforgettable travel experiences

Side B 71.43% - Hotels provide consistency and security that Airbnb can’t match

Poll closed: August 25, 2023

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