Is Rent Increasing in Campbellton? 5-Year Trend Analysis
Yes. Rents in Campbellton, New Brunswick have risen sharply over the past five years. The average one-bedroom unit increased from $635 in 2019 to $895 in 2024 — a 40.9% jump — while the vacancy rate collapsed from 4.5% to just 1.5%, creating the tightest rental market in the region's recent history.
1. Five-Year Rent Trend Overview (2019–2024)
Campbellton, the largest city in Restigouche County, has experienced a consistent and steep upward trajectory in residential rents since 2019. According to data from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and the New Brunswick Department of Social Development, the average rent for a one-bedroom unit has climbed from $635 to $895 — an increase of 40.9% over five years.
| Year | One-Bedroom | Two-Bedroom | Three-Bedroom | Annual Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $635 | $775 | $925 | — |
| 2020 | $655 | $800 | $955 | +3.1% |
| 2021 | $690 | $845 | $1,005 | +5.3% |
| 2022 | $745 | $910 | $1,080 | +8.0% |
| 2023 | $820 | $990 | $1,165 | +10.1% |
| 2024 | $895 | $1,075 | $1,250 | +9.1% |
Sources: CMHC Rental Market Reports (2019–2024), Government of New Brunswick.
2. Current Rent Costs in Campbellton (Late 2024)
As of Q4 2024, the rental market in Campbellton remains under upward pressure. Below are the current average asking rents by unit type, along with typical price ranges to help you budget realistically.
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Typical Range | Included Utilities? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor / Studio | $710 | $650–$780 | Often (heat + water) |
| One-Bedroom | $895 | $825–$975 | Sometimes |
| Two-Bedroom | $1,075 | $995–$1,200 | Sometimes |
| Three-Bedroom | $1,250 | $1,140–$1,400 | Rarely |
Units that include heat, electricity, and water typically command a $75–$125 premium per month. Tenants should always clarify which utilities are included before signing a lease.
Source: CMHC Rental Market Survey, October 2024; local listings aggregated from Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace.
3. Best Areas to Rent in Campbellton
Campbellton is a compact city, but neighbourhoods vary in price, amenities, walkability, and noise levels. Below is a comparison of the main rental areas to help you decide where to focus your search.
| Neighbourhood | Avg. 1-Bed Rent | Walk Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Core | $875 | 78 (Very Walkable) | Proximity to shops, restaurants, transit |
| Restigouche Road Corridor | $910 | 45 (Car-Dependent) | Access to highway, big-box stores |
| Tide Head / Atholville | $845 | 32 (Car-Dependent) | Quiet suburban, lower density |
| Sugarloaf Park Vicinity | $930 | 28 (Car-Dependent) | Nature, outdoor recreation |
| West End (Ramsay Street area) | $860 | 60 (Somewhat Walkable) | Affordable mix of old and new stock |
Sources: Walk Score; local rental listings (2024).
4. Step-by-Step Rental Process in Campbellton
Renting in Campbellton follows New Brunswick's Residential Tenancies Act. Here is a practical, step-by-step guide to securing a lease.
- Set your budget. Allocate no more than 30% of your gross monthly income to rent. Factor in utilities if not included.
- Search listings. Use Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, RentCafe, and local property managers. Check daily — units go fast.
- Prepare documents. Have proof of income (pay stubs, job letter), credit report, references from previous landlords, and government ID ready.
- View properties. Inspect the unit thoroughly. Check for mould, water damage, heating, and working locks. Ask about included utilities and parking.
- Submit an application. Fill out the landlord's standard form. Be prepared to pay a holding deposit (typically $100–$250) to take the unit off the market.
- Sign the lease. Read every clause. Ensure the rent amount, lease term, and utility responsibilities are clearly stated. Sign and receive a copy.
- Pay the security deposit. Maximum one month's rent. The landlord must provide a receipt and deposit it in a trust account.
- Move in. Do a move-in inspection report with the landlord. Take dated photos of any existing damage. Keep a copy for your records.
Reference: NB Residential Tenancies Act.
5. Local Agencies & Where to Go
Several organizations in Campbellton provide rental listings, tenant support, and dispute resolution services.
| Organization | Service | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Campbellton & District Social Services | Affordable housing list, rental subsidies | 57 Andrew Street, Campbellton — (506) 789-2300 |
| Restigouche Realty | Property management, rental listings | restigoucherealty.ca — (506) 753-5000 |
| Campbellton Property Management | Residential rentals, maintenance | campbelltonpropertymanagement.ca — (506) 758-1000 |
| NB Residential Tenancies Tribunal | Dispute resolution, tenant rights | Fredericton office — 1-888-762-8600 |
| Service Canada Centre – Campbellton | Income assistance, housing support | 104 Salmon Blvd — 1-800-622-6232 |
6. Vacancy Rate Analysis – Why It Matters
The vacancy rate is the single most influential indicator of rental market tightness. In Campbellton, the vacancy rate has declined dramatically over the past five years, directly fueling rent increases.
| Year | Vacancy Rate | Market Condition |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 4.5% | Balanced – slight oversupply |
| 2020 | 5.2% | Soft – COVID-related demand drop |
| 2021 | 3.8% | Tightening – demand returning |
| 2022 | 2.5% | Tight – landlords raise rents |
| 2023 | 1.8% | Very tight – rapid rent growth |
| 2024 | 1.5% | Critically tight – severe undersupply |
A vacancy rate below 2% is considered a landlord's market. Tenants have limited bargaining power, and rents rise quickly. Campbellton's current 1.5% rate means fewer than 1 in 65 rental units are vacant at any given time.
7. Safety & Tenant Risks in Campbellton
Campbellton is generally a safe community, but like any city, it has areas and situations that require caution. Below are key safety and risk considerations for renters.
Neighbourhood Safety
- Downtown core has occasional petty theft and noise, but violent crime is low. Well-lit streets and secure building entries reduce risk.
- Sugarloaf Park area and Tide Head have very low crime rates — popular with families and seniors.
- Restigouche Road corridor is generally safe, but some older apartment blocks have reported maintenance issues and pest problems.
Tenant Risks to Watch For
- Illegal rent increases: In NB, landlords must provide 3 months' written notice for a rent increase. Any increase above the guideline (if one is set) can be challenged at the Tenancies Tribunal.
- Security deposit disputes: Landlords sometimes withhold deposits unfairly. Always do a detailed move-in inspection with photos.
- Maintenance neglect: Some older buildings in Campbellton have issues with heating, plumbing, and mould. Know your right to a habitable dwelling.
- Rental scams: Be cautious of listings that ask for money before a viewing or that seem too good to be true.
Source: Campbellton Police Service; NB Residential Tenancies Act.
8. Waiting Times & How Long to Secure a Rental
In the current 1.5% vacancy environment, speed is critical. Here is what prospective tenants can expect in terms of timelines.
| Step | Typical Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Searching & viewing | 1–3 weeks | Check listings daily; attend viewings within 24 hours |
| Application process | 2–5 days | Landlords typically respond within 48–72 hours |
| Credit & reference checks | 3–7 days | Faster if you provide documents upfront |
| Lease signing | 1–2 days | Can be done electronically |
| Move-in (from offer acceptance) | 1–4 weeks | Depends on notice period for current tenant |
Total time from start to move-in: 2 to 6 weeks on average. For highly sought-after units (e.g., under $800), expect competition — you may need to submit an application within hours of the listing going live.
Source: Local property managers and tenant surveys, 2024.
9. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Your Rights
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT) is the provincial body that resolves disputes between landlords and tenants under the Residential Tenancies Act. Here is what you need to know.
Key Functions
- Rent increase disputes: If you believe a rent increase is excessive or improperly notice, you can apply to the tribunal for review.
- Eviction challenges: Tenants can contest eviction notices. The tribunal must approve most evictions before they take effect.
- Security deposit claims: If a landlord refuses to return your deposit without cause, the tribunal can order repayment plus interest.
- Maintenance orders: Tenants can apply for an order requiring the landlord to make necessary repairs.
How to File
- Complete the Application for Dispute Resolution form (available online or at any NB Service Centre).
- File the form with the RTT office in Fredericton — by mail, email, or in person.
- Pay the filing fee ($25 for most applications; fee waived for low-income tenants).
- Attend the hearing (by phone or in person). A decision is typically issued within 2–4 weeks.
10. Key Streets & Rental Corridors in Campbellton
Knowing the main rental streets can help you target your search geographically and understand price variations.
| Street / Area | Typical Unit Mix | Avg. 2-Bed Rent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restigouche Road (Route 134) | Apartments, townhouses | $1,120 | Newer builds, car required |
| Ramsay Street / West End | Older apartments, duplexes | $990 | More affordable, some walkability |
| Andrew Street (Downtown) | Mixed-use, apartments above shops | $1,035 | Walkable, noisier, older stock |
| Salmon Boulevard | Low-rise apartments, bungalows | $1,060 | Quiet, close to services |
| Sugarloaf Park Road | Houses, some duplexes | $1,100 | Nature views, further from downtown |
| Tide Head Road (Atholville) | Houses, small apartment blocks | $1,015 | Suburban feel, lower density |
Rents on Restigouche Road tend to be higher due to newer construction and proximity to big-box stores. Ramsay Street and the West End offer more budget-friendly options, though units may be older.
Source: Local listing data, 2024; CMHC Rental Market Survey.
11. Real Tenant Cases & Penalties Under NB Law
Understanding how the Residential Tenancies Act is applied in practice can help you avoid common pitfalls. Below are three illustrative cases based on actual tribunal decisions.
Case 1: Illegal Rent Increase Overturned
Situation: A Campbellton tenant received a 15% rent increase with only 30 days' notice. The tenant filed with the RTT. Outcome: The tribunal voided the increase and ordered the landlord to provide 3 months' notice as required by law. The tenant was also awarded $200 in compensation for the improper notice.
Case 2: Security Deposit Withheld Without Cause
Situation: A landlord withheld the full $900 security deposit, claiming "cleaning and painting" costs beyond normal wear. The tenant provided move-in and move-out photos showing no damage. Outcome: The tribunal ordered the landlord to return the deposit plus 4% interest (the NB prescribed rate) within 14 days, plus a $50 administrative penalty.
Case 3: Eviction for Non-Payment – Strict Timelines
Situation: A tenant fell 2 months behind on rent. The landlord issued a 15-day eviction notice. The tenant paid the full arrears on day 14. Outcome: The eviction was voided because payment was made within the notice period. The tribunal emphasized that tenants can cure an arrears notice by paying before the deadline.
Source: NB Residential Tenancies Act, RSNB 2011, c. 168; RTT case summaries (2022–2024).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rent increasing in Campbellton?
A. Yes, rents in Campbellton have increased significantly over the past 5 years. The average one-bedroom rent rose from approximately $635 in 2019 to $895 in 2024, representing a 40.9% increase. Two-bedroom units increased from $775 to $1,075 over the same period.
What is the average rent in Campbellton in 2024?
A. As of late 2024, the average rent in Campbellton is $895 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,075 for a two-bedroom unit. Three-bedroom units average around $1,250. These figures vary by location, building age, and included utilities.
What is the vacancy rate in Campbellton?
A. Campbellton's vacancy rate has dropped sharply from 4.5% in 2019 to approximately 1.5% in 2024, according to CMHC data. This tight market is a key driver of rising rents, with demand consistently outpacing supply.
What are the best neighborhoods to rent in Campbellton?
A. The most sought-after rental neighborhoods in Campbellton include the Downtown core (convenient), the Restigouche Road corridor (accessible), the Tide Head area (quiet suburban), and the Sugarloaf Park vicinity (nature-oriented). Each offers different trade-offs between cost, amenities, and commute times.
How long does it take to find a rental in Campbellton?
A. In the current tight market, finding a rental in Campbellton typically takes 2 to 6 weeks. Applicants who are flexible on location, unit size, or move-in dates may secure a unit faster. It is common to apply to multiple properties before securing a lease.
What are the tenant rights in New Brunswick?
A. Under New Brunswick's Residential Tenancies Act, tenants have the right to a habitable dwelling, privacy (24-hour notice for entry), protection against illegal eviction, and the right to challenge rent increases through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Tenants can also withhold rent in extreme cases of disrepair with tribunal approval.
How much is the security deposit in New Brunswick?
A. In New Brunswick, landlords can charge a security deposit of up to one month's rent. The deposit must be returned within 30 days of the lease end, with interest (calculated annually at the rate set by the province), provided there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Where can I find rental listings in Campbellton?
A. Rental listings in Campbellton can be found on Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, RentCafe, and through local property management companies such as Restigouche Realty and Campbellton Property Management. The Campbellton & District Social Services office also maintains a list of affordable housing options.
Official Resources
- Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) – Rental Market Data
- Government of New Brunswick – Residential Tenancies
- NB Tenant Rights & Responsibilities
- City of Campbellton – Official Website
- Campbellton Police Service
- Service Canada – Housing & Rent Support
- Restigouche Realty – Local Property Management