Canada’s housing affordability improvement is running out of steam, according to new RBC Economics analysis. The national affordability measure improved by just 0.4 percentage points in Q2 2026—the smallest gain in nearly a year—as rising household income became the sole driver of relief. Toronto posted the largest improvement among major cities, with its affordability measure falling 1.2 points to 64.1%, and the condo segment reaching its best affordability since 2017. However, the outlook darkens considerably. RBC warns that upward pressure on long-term interest rates and expected Bank of Canada rate hikes in 2027 could reverse recent gains, putting ownership costs on the rise again. Spiking energy costs will compound affordability pressures, particularly impacting variable-rate borrowers. The report suggests a modest loss of affordability as 2027 approaches. For GTA buyers, this represents a closing window—the condo market’s improved accessibility may be temporary. Read the full analysis to understand what these shifts mean for your real estate strategy.
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