Scarborough Seniors Co-Operative

Senior co-operative housing in Scarborough offers an affordable and community-oriented way for older adults to live independently while staying connected. These not-for-profit housing communities are managed by their members, the people who live there, who help guide how things are run.

Most senior co-ops in Scarborough are rental co-operatives. Residents don’t own their units, but they do pay monthly housing charges and have a say in how the building is managed. When joining, new members usually buy a small, one-time share in the co-op.

While many co-ops are multigenerational, some have a strong senior population or are designated for older adults. These communities are best for seniors who are independent and don’t require daily care, since co-ops typically don’t provide on-site services.

Seniors often choose co-op housing because it’s more affordable, socially connected, and stable over time. Housing charges tend to be below market rates, and decisions about how the building is run are made by the people who live there.

Unlike retirement homes or assisted living, co-ops don’t include personal care, meals, or housekeeping. Seniors who need support can arrange for help privately or through publicly funded options like Ontario Health atHome.

It’s important to know the difference between rental co-operatives and co-ownership housing.

Rental co-operatives are non-profit communities where residents join by purchasing a membership share. They rent their unit from the co-op and take part in managing the community. This is the most common co-op model for seniors.

Co-ownership housing works differently. In this model, people buy a share in the building that gives them the right to live in a specific unit. They are responsible for financing and taxes, and the share can be sold when they move. Co-ownership housing is not regulated under the Condominium Act and is less common than rental co-ops.

If you’re looking for a senior-friendly ownership option, take a look at independent living for purchase or life lease housing.

Yes, senior co-operative housing is available in Scarborough and nearby communities. While most co-ops are multigenerational, some are focused on older adults or have a high number of senior residents. These communities offer a sense of connection and shared responsibility that many older adults find meaningful.

To find co-ops in your area, visit:
Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada
Ontario Co-operative Association

Each co-op sets its own rules, but most will ask for:

• A completed application
• Attendance at an information session or interview
• A commitment to help manage the community

New members also pay a one-time share to join the co-op. Some co-ops have income guidelines or offer subsidized units, and many have waiting lists due to high demand.

No, co-ops don’t provide personal care, nursing, or meals. Seniors who need support will need to arrange it themselves, either through private services or public programs like Ontario Health atHome.

If daily help or memory support is needed, you may want to consider assisted living or memory care instead.

The application process varies, but generally includes submitting a form, attending a session or interview, and showing a willingness to be part of the community.

If approved, members pay housing charges each month and follow the co-op’s community guidelines. The membership share is usually refunded when the member moves out, as long as there’s no damage or money owing.

Not sure if co-operative housing is the right choice? Visit our consulting services page to speak with someone who can help you compare senior housing options in Scarborough.

Senior co-operative housing in Scarborough can be a great fit for older adults who want affordable living, a say in their community, and the independence to live their own way. It’s not the right choice for everyone, but for many, it’s a valuable alternative worth exploring.