Condo vs. Townhouse: Which is Right for You?

Buying a home is a huge milestone, and if you're exploring your options, you might find yourself torn between a condo and a townhouse. Both have their perks—and their quirks. Whether you're a first-time buyer looking for something low-maintenance or you’re downsizing and want to keep things simple, knowing the differences between condos and townhouses can help you make a more confident decision.

This post breaks down 5 key things to consider when weighing your options between a condo and a townhouse in Ontario.

Ownership Structure & Maintenance Responsibilities

The first big difference between condos and townhouses is what exactly you own—and what you're responsible for maintaining.

When you buy a condo, you’re typically purchasing the interior space of your unit. The exterior of the building, the roof, the grounds, and common areas like the gym or party room are all owned collectively with the other unit owners. These shared spaces are managed by a condo corporation, which is also responsible for maintenance. You pay a monthly condo fee, and in return, the corporation handles things like snow removal, landscaping, repairs to the building exterior, and so on.

In contrast, when you buy a townhouse—especially a freehold townhouse—you usually own both the interior and exterior of the home, including the roof, driveway, and front and back yards (if any). This means you’re responsible for all of the maintenance, but you also have more control. There are also condo townhouses that function like regular condos (with maintenance and fees), so it’s important to know what kind you’re buying.

Ask yourself: Do you like the idea of a “lock it and leave it” lifestyle where someone else handles the upkeep? Or are you okay rolling up your sleeves (or hiring a service) to take care of things yourself?

Monthly Fees and Long-Term Costs

Another big factor is cost—especially the costs that continue after you get the keys.

Condos typically have higher monthly maintenance fees compared to townhouses, and those fees cover building insurance, amenities, reserve fund contributions, and building upkeep. Depending on the building and what’s included, these fees can be a few hundred dollars a month—or more. Older buildings may have higher fees due to the added maintenance required.

Townhouses (especially freehold ones) usually don’t have these ongoing monthly fees. That said, you’ll need to budget for things like roof repairs, lawn care, snow removal, and general upkeep, since you’re on the hook for those costs yourself.

One thing to keep in mind: just because a townhouse doesn’t have a monthly fee doesn’t mean it’s cheaper in the long run. Unexpected maintenance can creep up, especially if you’re not setting aside a rainy-day fund.

Bottom line: Condos offer predictable costs, while townhouses offer lower ongoing fees but more responsibility. What’s more important to you—convenience or control?

Space, Layout, and Privacy

The feel of a condo vs. a townhouse can be really different, so think about your lifestyle and how much space you need.

Condos are generally smaller and more compact, especially in cities like Toronto. You’ll often find one- or two-bedroom units with an open-plan layout. That makes them perfect for singles, couples, or downsizers who want simplicity and don’t need a lot of room. Many condos come with a balcony, but outdoor space is usually limited, and storage can be tight.

Townhouses offer more of a “house-like” feel—often spread out over two or three levels, with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Some come with a backyard or garage, which can be great for families, pet owners, or anyone who values space and privacy. Townhouses typically share walls with neighbours on one or both sides, but you won’t have people living above or below you, which can make them feel quieter and more private.

Consider: How much space do you need today—and a few years from now? Will you need a home office, a yard for your dog, or a place for the kids to play?

Lifestyle and Amenities

Condos tend to shine when it comes to built-in amenities. Many newer buildings come with a long list of extras—think gyms, pools, party rooms, guest suites, co-working spaces, concierge service, and more. This can be a big bonus for people who want those extras without leaving home.

Townhouses, on the other hand, usually don’t come with amenities (unless they’re part of a condo townhouse complex with shared features). But they offer a different kind of lifestyle—more independence, fewer shared walls or common areas, and often more outdoor space. Some people love the community feel of a townhouse complex; others prefer the hustle and bustle (and walkability) of condo living, especially in the city.

If you’re someone who loves convenience and perks—and you’ll actually use the gym or party room—then a condo might be your vibe. But if you’re more into peace and quiet, having your own garden, or being able to BBQ on the deck, a townhouse might be the better fit.

Ask yourself: Are the lifestyle perks of condo living worth the extra monthly cost, or do you value your own space more?

Location and Future Value

Let’s talk about location—because whether you’re looking in Toronto, the GTA, or other areas like Waterloo Region, where you buy can really influence the type of property available (and its potential for appreciation).

Condos are usually found in urban centres, close to public transit, entertainment, shops, and restaurants. They’re ideal if you love city living and want to be in the heart of the action. Because of their central locations, condos can be a more affordable way to get into a high-demand neighbourhood, though the value appreciation can depend on the building and surrounding development.

Townhouses are more common in suburban and growing communities. While you can find some in cities, they’re often located a bit further out, which means more space for your money—but possibly a longer commute. Townhouses can also appeal to a broader range of buyers down the road (especially families), which might help with resale value.

One thing to remember: when it comes to investing in your future, both condos and townhouses can be smart choices—it just depends on the location, the market, and your goals.

Think about: Where do you want to live? What’s your commute like? And are you thinking long-term resale or short-term lifestyle?

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the condo vs. townhouse question— it really comes down to your lifestyle, your priorities, and your comfort level with maintenance and cost.

If you’re all about convenience, love city life, and want a low-maintenance place with great amenities, a condo might be your perfect match. But if you’re looking for more space, a bit of backyard, and more independence (especially when it comes to home maintenance), a townhouse might be the way to go.

Whichever path you choose, being informed is the first step to feeling confident in your decision. Take your time, tour both options, and think about how each one fits into your life—not just today, but a few years from now too. Happy house hunting!