Cost of living in Canada

Canada is one of the most favored countries for migrants around the world due to its high quality of life, advanced facilities, and economy. Before moving to this country, there’s a lot to consider, but the first thing you should focus on more than anything else is knowing the cost of living in Canada.

So, before migrating to Canada, make sure you factor in the cost of living in your calculations. To get detailed expenses on living in Canada as of the 2024 update, we recommend reading this article.

What is the cost of living?

The cost of living is the amount of money needed to cover basic living expenses such as housing, food, public transportation, childcare, healthcare, and taxes in a specific location and time frame. Besides these, there are other necessities that count as additional costs, including clothing expenses, internet and phone bills, gym memberships, entertainment, and more.

The cost of living in Canada varies depending on individuals’ lifestyles and locations.

Cost of living in Canada 2024

In this section, based on data from the Numbeo website for the year 2024, the average cost of living in Canada is presented based on factors like housing, food, transportation, childcare, clothing, and sports and entertainment.

Note: Here, the average refers to the midpoint between the lowest and highest living expenses. Therefore, in different areas of Canada, the cost can be lower or higher than the average amounts.

Housing costs in Canada

The average rent for an apartment and home buying across Canada is as follows:

Item	Average price in Canadian dollars
Average cost of a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center	$1981.86
Cost of a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center	$1802.42
Cost of a 3-bedroom apartment in the city center	$3160.27
Cost of a 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center	$2649.29
Price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city center	$12201.34
Price per square meter to buy an apartment outside the city center	$8870.18

Utilities

Item	Cost in Canadian Dollars
Electricity & water & heating – cooling & sewage for an 85 square meter apartment	$215.87
Monthly mobile plan with call and 10GB of internet	$65.95
Internet (60 Mbps or higher – unlimited data – cable/ADSL)	$87.39

Restaurant costs in Canada

Item	Average Price in Canadian Dollars
Meal for one at a cheap restaurant	$24
Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant	$100
Cappuccino	$5
A soda	$2.88
Small bottle of water	$2.34

Food costs in Canada

Item	Average Price in Canadian Dollars
Milk (one liter)	$2.88
Bread (500 grams)	$3.51
White rice (one kilogram)	$5.11
Chicken fillet (one kilogram)	$16.43
Eggs (12 count)	$4.62
Local cheese (one kilogram)	$15.28
Bananas (one kilogram)	$1.91
Apples (one kilogram)	$5.66
Oranges (one kilogram)	$5.09
Lettuce (one medium head)	$3.60
Onions (one kilogram)	$3.48
Potatoes (one kilogram)	$3.52
Tomatoes (one kilogram)	$5.54
Water (1.5-liter bottle)	$2.37

Transportation costs

Item	Average Price (Canadian Dollars)
Single trip ticket	$3.35
Monthly travel card	$104.90
Taxi fare	$4.50
Taxi fare per kilometer	$2.09
Hourly taxi wait charge (stopped or in traffic)	$39
One liter of gas	$1.59

Clothing costs

Item	Average Price in Canadian Dollars
One pair of jeans	$82.02
One summer dress from a chain store	$57.76
One pair of Nike sneakers	$120.03
One pair of men's leather shoes	$157.69

Sports and entertainment costs

Item	Average Price in Canadian Dollars
Monthly gym membership for an adult	$59.02
Cost for one hour of tennis court rental on weekends	$27.64
Movie ticket one seat	$15

Childcare costs

Item	Average Price in Canadian Dollars
Private preschool or kindergarten full day / monthly cost for one child	$1116.72
International primary school / annual cost for one child	$19896.06

Salary and wages

The average net monthly salary after tax is $3,881.82.

Average cost of living in Canada

The average cost of living in Canada for a single person and a family of four per month in 2024 is as follows:

Single person

Average cost of living in Canada excluding rent: CAD 1,441

Average cost of living in Canada including rent for a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center: CAD 3,231

Family of 4

Average cost of living in Canada excluding rent: CAD 5,164

Average cost of living in Canada including rent for a 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center: CAD 7,813

Monthly living expenses in Canada

In this section, we’ll take a look at the monthly living expenses in Canada for the year 2024. The costs are categorized based on a single person and a family of four living in different cities in Canada. All costs are in Canadian dollars.

Cost of living for one single person in Canada

City	Province	Cost of living per month in Canada excluding rent	Cost of monthly rent in Canada (1-bedroom apartment outside the city center)	Total monthly living cost in Canada with rent
Toronto	Ontario	1542.6	2302.68	2909.1
Vancouver	British Columbia	1586.2	2841.28	4427.48
Halifax	Nova Scotia	1467.0	1673.08	3140.08
Calgary	Alberta	1609.0	1869.25	3478.25
Saskatoon	Saskatchewan	1479.3	1228.33	2707.63
Winnipeg	Manitoba	1376.1	1444.48	2820.58
Charlottetown	Prince Edward Island	2256.0	900.00	3156.00
Moncton	New Brunswick	2253.0	1050.00	3303.00
Montreal	Quebec	1354.6	1289.15	2643.75
St. John's	Newfoundland and Labrador	1263.02	1200.00	2463.02

Cost of living for a family of four in Canada

City	Province	Cost of living per month in Canada excluding rent	Cost of monthly rent in Canada (3-bedroom apartment outside the city center)	Total monthly living cost in Canada with rent
Toronto	Ontario	5583.00	3661.36	9244.36
Vancouver	British Columbia	5883.0	3661.36	9544.36
Halifax	Nova Scotia	5165.8	2681.76	7846.84
Calgary	Alberta	5636.1	2422.50	8058.60
Saskatoon	Saskatchewan	5193.3	1866.67	6959.97
Winnipeg	Manitoba	4923.3	2088.57	7011.87
Charlottetown	Prince Edward Island	4699.0	1766.67	6478.67
Moncton	New Brunswick	4678.0	1650.00	6328.00
Montreal	Quebec	5000.5	2101.41	7101.91
St. John's	Newfoundland and Labrador	4446.48	2000.00	6446.48

Cost of living in Canadian cities 2024

The cost of living in Canadian cities is outlined below based on data from the WOWA website:

Cost of living in Vancouver

Cost of living for a two-person household in Vancouver:

Housing costs: $2,120.50

Rent: $1,830

Electricity: $116

Phone and Internet: $174.50

Food and groceries: $812.67

Transportation: $649

Cost of living for a three-person household in Vancouver:

Housing costs: $2,120.50

Rent: $1,830

Electricity: $116

Phone and Internet: $174.50

Food and groceries: $1,219

Transportation: $649

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $935

Cost of living for a four-person household in Vancouver:

Housing costs: $4,784.50

Rent: $4,494

Electricity: $116

Phone and Internet: $174.50

Food and groceries: $1,625.33

Transportation: $649

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $1,870

Cost of living for a two-person household in Toronto:

Housing costs in Toronto, Canada: $1,952.75

Rent: $1,680

Electricity: $104

Phone and Internet: $168.75

Food and groceries: $795.83

Transportation: $577.92

Cost of living in Toronto

Cost of living for a three-person household in Toronto:

Rent costs in Toronto, Canada: $1,952.75

Rent: $1,680

Electricity: $104

Phone and Internet: $168.75

Food and groceries: $1,193.75

Transportation: $577.92

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $1,250

Cost of living for a four-person household in Toronto:

Rent costs in Toronto, Canada: $3,814.75

Rent: $3,542

Electricity: $104

Phone and Internet: $168.75

Food and groceries: $1,591.67

Transportation: $577.92

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $2,500

Cost of living in Montreal

Cost of living for a two-person household in Montreal:

Housing Costs: $1,165.50

Rent: $932

Electricity: $73

Phone and Internet: $160.52

Food and Groceries: $752.17

Transportation: $515.25

Cost of living for a three-person household in Montreal:

Rent cost in Toronto, Canada: $1,165.50

Rent: $932

Electricity: $73

Phone and Internet: $160.50

Food and Groceries: $1,128.25

Transportation: $515.25

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $181

Cost of living for a four-person household in Montreal:

Housing Costs: $3,425.50

Rent: $3,192

Electricity: $73

Phone and Internet: $160

Food and Groceries: $1,504.33

Transportation: $515.25

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $362

Cost of living in Calgary

Housing Costs: $1,706.33

Rent: $1,350

Electricity: $176.25

Phone and Internet: $180.08

Food and Groceries: $864.83

Transportation: $525.33

Cost of living for a three-person household in Calgary:

Housing Costs: $1,706.33

Rent: $1,350

Electricity: $176.25

Phone and Internet: $180.08

Food and Groceries: $1,297.25

Transportation: $525.33

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $1,145

Cost of living for a four-person household in Calgary:

Housing Costs: $2,365.33

Rent: $2,009

Electricity: $176.25

Phone and Internet: $180.08

Food and Groceries: $1,729.67

Transportation: $525.33

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $2,290

Cost of living in Ottawa

Here are the living costs for a two-person family in Ottawa:

Housing cost: $1,799.75

Rent: $1,547

Electricity: $84

Phone and Internet: $168.75

Food and groceries: $795.83

Transportation: $577.92

Living costs for a three-person family in Ottawa:

Housing cost: $1,799.75

Rent: $1,547

Electricity: $184

Phone and Internet: $168.75

Food and groceries: $1,193.75

Transportation: $577.92

Childcare costs (preschool or kindergarten): $1,018

Living costs for a four-person family in Ottawa:

Housing cost: $3,256.75

Rent: $3,004

Electricity: $84

Phone and Internet: $168.75

Food and groceries: $1,591.67

Transportation: $577.92

Childcare costs (preschool or kindergarten): $2,036

Cost of living in Saskatoon

Living costs for a two-person family in Saskatoon:

Housing cost: $1,555.75

Rent: $1,186

Electricity: $168

Phone and Internet: $201.75

Food and groceries: $796.67

Transportation: $529.58

Living costs for a three-person family in Saskatoon:

Housing cost: $1,555.75

Rent: $1,186

Electricity: $168

Phone and Internet: $201.75

Food and groceries: $1,195

Transportation: $529.58

Childcare costs (preschool or kindergarten): $750

Living costs for a four-person family in Saskatoon:

Housing cost: $2,302.75

Rent: $1,933

Electricity: $84

Phone and Internet: $201.75

Food and groceries: $1,593.33

Transportation: $529.58

Childcare costs (preschool or kindergarten): $1,500

Cost of living in Quebec City

Cost of living for a two-person family in Quebec City:

Housing cost: $1,178.50

Rent: $945

Electricity: $73

Phone and internet: $160.50

Food and groceries: $752.17

Transportation: $515.25

Cost of living for a three-person family in Quebec City:

Housing cost: $1,178.50

Rent: $945

Electricity: $73

Phone and internet: $160.50

Food and groceries: $1,128.25

Transportation: $515.25

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $181

Cost of living for a four-person family in Quebec City:

Housing cost: $1,178.50

Rent: $945

Electricity: $73

Phone and internet: $160.50

Food and groceries: $1,504.33

Transportation: $515.25

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $362

Cost of living in Winnipeg

Cost of living for a two-person family in Winnipeg:

Housing cost: $1,586.83

Rent: $1,318

Electricity: $94

Phone and internet: $174.83

Food and groceries: $760.50

Transportation: $522.67

Cost of living for a three-person family in Winnipeg:

Housing cost: $1,586.83

Rent: $1,586.83

Electricity: $94

Phone and internet: $174.83

Food and groceries: $1,140.75

Transportation: $522.67

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $451

Cost of living for a four-person family in Winnipeg:

Housing cost: $2,048.83

Rent: $1,780

Electricity: $94

Phone and internet: $174.83

Food and groceries: $1,521

Transportation: $522.67

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $902

Cost of living in Edmonton

Cost of living for a two-person family in Edmonton

Housing cost: $1,627.33

Rent: $1,271

Electricity: $176.25

Phone and internet: $180.08

Food and groceries: $864.83

Transportation: $525.33

Cost of living for a three-person family in Edmonton:

Housing cost: $1,627.33

Rent: $1,627.33

Electricity: $176.25

Phone and internet: $180.08

Food and groceries: $1,297.25

Transportation: $525.33

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $925

Cost of living for a four-person family in Edmonton:

Housing cost: $2,143.33

Rent: $1,787

Electricity: $176.25

Phone and internet: $180.08

Food and groceries: $1,729.67

Transportation: $525.33

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $1,850

Cost of living in Halifax

Cost of living for a two-person family in Halifax

Housing cost: $1,681.08

Rent: $1,334

Electricity: $167

Phone and internet: $180.08

Food and groceries: $693.33

Transportation: $522.92

Cost of living for a three-person family in Halifax:

Housing cost: $1,681.08

Rent: $1,681.08

Electricity: $167

Phone and internet: $180.08

Food and groceries: $1,040

Transportation: $522.92

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $868

Cost of living for a four-person family in Halifax:

Housing cost: $2,235.08

Rent: $1,888

Electricity: $167

Phone and internet: $180.08

Food and groceries: $1,386.67

Transportation: $522.92

Childcare costs (daycare or preschool): $1,736

Cost of living in Victoria

One-bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,977

One-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $1,609

Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: $3,388

Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $2,782

Meal for one (cheap restaurant): $25

Meal for two (moderate restaurant): $90

McMeal at McDonald’s: $12

Cappuccino: $4.98

Pepsi (small bottle): $2.67

Water (small bottle): $2.38

Milk (one liter): $3.36

Fresh white bread (500 grams): $3.67

White rice (one kilogram): $4.58

Eggs (12 pieces): $4.83

Local cheese (one kilogram): $16.80

Chicken fillet (one kilogram): $18.01

Beef or red meat: $19.77

Apples (one kilogram): $4.46

Bananas (one kilogram): $1.71

Oranges (one kilogram): $4.82

Tomatoes (one kilogram): $5.91

Potatoes (one kilogram): $3.30

Onions (one kilogram): $3.31

Lettuce (one piece): $3.43

Single journey ticket: $2.50

Monthly travel card: $85

Taxi fare per kilometer: $2

Taxi fare per hour of waiting (at location or in traffic): $41.66

One liter of gasoline: $2.15

Full-time preschool or kindergarten: $1,240 per month

Other expenses:

Gym membership (monthly): $67.81

Movie ticket: $14.47

One minute of mobile conversation: $0.26

One month of internet: $96.71

Cost of living in Windsor

One-bedroom apartment in the city center: $1,316

One-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $1,340

Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: $2,156

Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $2,085

Meal for one (cheap restaurant): $20

Meal for two (moderate restaurant): $80

McMeal at McDonald’s: $11.75

Cappuccino: $4.64

Pepsi (small bottle): $2.15

Water (small bottle): $1.74

Milk (one liter): $2

Fresh white bread (500 grams): $2.32

White rice (one kilogram): $2.75

Eggs (12 pieces): $3.47

Local cheese (one kilogram): $14.41

Chicken fillet (one kilogram): $11.28

Beef or red meat: $11.97

Apples (one kilogram): $4.36

Bananas (one kilogram): $1.41

Oranges (one kilogram): $4.16

Tomatoes (one kilogram): $2.72

Potatoes (one kilogram): $2.60

Onions (one kilogram): $2.22

Lettuce (one piece): $2.85

Single ticket $3.25

Monthly travel card $130.43

Taxi fare per kilometer $2.48

Taxi fare per hour waiting (at location or in traffic) $34

One liter of gasoline $1.77

Full-time preschool or kindergarten $516 per month

Other costs:

Gym membership (monthly): $52.71

Movie ticket: $13

One minute of mobile conversation: $0.28

One month of internet: $81.48

Cost of living in Regina

One-bedroom apartment in downtown $958

One-bedroom apartment outside downtown $937

Three-bedroom apartment in downtown $1,740

Three-bedroom apartment outside downtown $1,460

Meal for one (cheap restaurant) $16.50

Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) $80

McMeal at McDonald’s $12.50

Cappuccino $4.31

Pepsi (small bottle) $2.93

Water (small bottle) $2.25

Milk (one liter) $1.95

Fresh white bread (500 grams) $2.39

White rice (one kilogram) $2.84

Eggs (12 count) $3.76

Local cheese (one kilogram) $12.68

Chicken fillet (one kilogram) $112.13

Beef or red meat $16.02

Apples (one kilogram) $4.13

Bananas (one kilogram) $1.59

Oranges (one kilogram) $3.61

Tomatoes (one kilogram) $3.39

Potatoes (one kilogram) $3.24

Onions (one kilogram) $2.97

Lettuce (one head) $2.88

Single ticket $3.25

Monthly travel card $88

Taxi fare per kilometer $2.90

Taxi fare per hour waiting (at location or in traffic) $25.25

One liter of gasoline $1.90

Full-time preschool or kindergarten $800 per month

Other costs:

Gym membership (monthly): $48.37

Movie ticket: $13.50

One minute of mobile conversation: $0.12

One month of internet: $81.24

The cost of living in the provinces of Canada

Each province in Canada consists of several cities. The cost of living in one city might be high, while in other cities in the same province, it could be lower. When talking about the cost of living in Canadian provinces, we refer to the average living expenses across all cities in that province. Therefore, the average cost of living in a specific city might differ from the average living cost of the entire province.

Cost of living in British Columbia

The average monthly cost of living in British Columbia is as follows:

Total monthly living expenses: $4,800

Housing costs: $2,000

Water, electricity, heating-cooling, and sewage: $120

Phone and internet: $120

Grocery expenses: $400

Cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: $35

Monthly bus pass: $100

Cost of a liter of gas: $1.65

Most expensive city in the province: Vancouver

Cost of living in Ontario

The average monthly cost of living in Ontario is as follows:

Total monthly living expenses (the city of Toronto is not included in the average): $4,100

Housing costs: $1,500

Water, electricity, heating-cooling, and sewage: $170

Phone and internet: $120

Grocery expenses: $600

Cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: $40

Monthly bus pass: $125

Cost of a liter of gas: $1.40

Most expensive cities in the province: Toronto and Ottawa

Cost of living in Quebec

The average monthly cost of living in Quebec is as follows:

Total monthly living expenses: $3,000

Housing costs: $1,000

Water, electricity, heating-cooling, and sewage: $125

Phone and internet: $100

Grocery expenses: $600

Cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: $45

Monthly bus pass: $90

Cost of a liter of gas: $1.45

Most expensive city in the province: Montreal

Cost of living in Alberta

The average cost of living in Alberta for a month is as follows:

Total monthly living cost: $3,900

Housing cost: $1,000

Utilities like water, electricity, heating and cooling, and sewage: $220

Phone and internet cost: $110

Grocery cost: $500

Cost of a meal at an average restaurant: $40

Monthly bus pass: $110

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.30

Most expensive cities in the province: Calgary and Edmonton

Cost of living in New Brunswick

The average cost of living in New Brunswick for a month is as follows:

Total monthly living cost: $2,900

Housing cost: $865

Utilities like water, electricity, heating and cooling, and sewage: $167

Phone and internet cost: $110

Grocery cost: $350

Cost of a meal at an average restaurant: $40

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.20

Most expensive city in the province: Moncton or Saint John

Cost of living in Manitoba

The average cost of living in Manitoba for a month is as follows:

Total monthly living cost: $3,300

Housing cost: $1,000

Utilities like water, electricity, heating and cooling, and sewage: $220

Phone and internet cost: $110

Grocery cost: $350

Cost of a meal at an average restaurant: $30

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.30

Most expensive city in the province: Winnipeg

Cost of living in Saskatchewan

The average cost of living in Saskatchewan for a month is as follows:

Total monthly living cost: $3,000

Housing cost: $900

Utilities like water, electricity, heating and cooling, and sewage: $190

Phone and internet cost: $100

Grocery cost: $390

Cost of a meal at an average restaurant: $30

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.20

Most expensive city in the province: Regina

Cost of living in Nova Scotia

The average cost of living in Nova Scotia for a month is as follows:

Total monthly living cost: $2,700

Housing cost: $900

Utilities like water, electricity, heating and cooling, and sewage: $100

Phone and internet cost: $100

Grocery cost: $500

Cost of a meal at an average restaurant: $30

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.33

Most expensive city in the province: Halifax

Cost of living in Prince Edward Island

The average cost of living in Prince Edward Island for one month is as follows:

Total cost of living in a month: $2,300

Housing cost: $980

Utilities, heating-cooling, and sewage: $210

Phone and internet: $150

Grocery cost: $350

Cost of a meal at a average restaurant: $35

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.22

Most expensive city in the province: Charlottetown

Cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador

The average cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador for one month is as follows:

Total cost of living in a month: $2,300

Housing cost: $800

Utilities, heating-cooling, and sewage: $260

Phone and internet: $140

Grocery cost: $400

Cost of a meal at a average restaurant: $35

Cost of one liter of gas: $1.26

Most expensive city in the province: St. John’s

Comparing the cost of living in Canada with other countries

In the table below, derived from Numbeo statistics in mid-2022, you can see the cost of living index compared to the rental index in 35 countries worldwide. This index is relative to New York City, USA. This means that for New York City, this index should be 100 (%). Therefore, if the cost of living index and rental index in a city is 120, it means that the cost of living and rent in that city is 20% more expensive than in New York City.

Countries are arranged from highest to lowest cost of living index compared to the rental index, and Canada ranks 18th with a living index of 52.74. So according to this data, the average cost of living and renting in Canada is about 31% cheaper than in New York City, USA.

*Cost of living index relative to rental index: This index indicates an approximate measure of the prices of consumer goods, including groceries, restaurant prices, transportation, utilities, gas, and the cost of renting or leasing housing.

Note

Note that in countries where the cost of living and rental index is high, if the purchasing power of the people is also high, then a high cost of living and high rent are not concerning for them, and they enjoy economic well-being, like Switzerland, which ranks 2nd on the list. On the other hand, if a country has a high cost of living and rental index but the purchasing power of its people is low, that country faces economic problems, like Bermuda, which ranks 1st on the list.

Rank	Country	Cost of Living Index + Rental Index
1	Bermuda	121.39
2	Switzerland	81.73
3	Hong Kong	72.48
4	Singapore	72.43
5	Jersey	68.48
6	Bahamas	64.55
7	Iceland	62.43
8	Luxembourg	60.64
9	Norway	59.59
10	United States	58.95
11	Guernsey	58.85
12	Israel	56.19
13	Ireland	56.00
14	Barbados	55.71
15	Qatar	55.71
16	Australia	54.86
17	Macau	53.28
18	Canada	52.74
19	Denmark	52.21
20	Netherlands	51.37
21	New Zealand	50.15
22	United Arab Emirates	48.18
23	United Kingdom	46.42
24	France	46.20
25	Lebanon	45.78
26	Austria	44.44
27	Puerto Rico	44.13
28	Finland	43.83
29	Germany	43.83
30	Sweden	43.35
31	Belgium	43.14
32	South Korea	42.94
33	Japan	42.83
34	Malta	41.99
35	Maldives	41.61

The cost of living for Iranians in Canada

All living expenses in Canada mentioned in this article apply to all immigrants, including Iranians. Due to the high dollar price in Iran and converting rials to Canadian dollars, the cost of living in Canada is high for Iranians. However, many Iranians who are applying to immigrate to this country have the financial capability to cover their living expenses.

Iranians who immigrate to Canada through education can significantly cover their living costs through part-time student work and scholarships. Iranians who immigrate through work and getting a job offer usually earn equivalent incomes to Canadian citizens, allowing them to fully cover their living expenses.

The cheapest cities in Canada to live in 2024.

In this section, we’re introducing 8 affordable cities in Canada for living. Keep in mind that most of the inexpensive cities in Canada usually have small populations and limited job opportunities. So, not every cheap city in Canada is necessarily suitable for immigrants to live.

1. Trois-Rivières, Quebec

The average monthly living cost for a single person (not including rent): $670

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $560

The average cost of a meal for two: $75

Utilities and heating/cooling costs for an area of 52 square meters: $118

If you’re an art lover, Trois-Rivières is an attractive destination worth seeing. The city currently has a growing population of around 140,000. There are plenty of local art museums in the downtown area showcasing Quebecois art. While this city might not have a strong industrial culture, it’s an excellent spot for young artists, remote workers, and those looking for a great mix of a growing city with historical and quirky aspects.

2. Lloydminster, Saskatchewan

The average monthly cost of living for a single person (excluding rent): $695

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $750

The average cost of a meal for two: $68

The cost of water, electricity, and heating/cooling for a 52 square meter space: $227

Lloydminster is recognized as a border city located at the border of Saskatchewan and Alberta. This area is relatively rural and lacks large shopping centers or other attractions found in bigger cities.

The current population of this city is just over 20,000, and it has been declining for several years as younger members of the community seek better job opportunities and education in larger cities.

Due to the low cost of living, this city has become a popular destination for retirement, and compared to other cities in Saskatchewan, it has an older population. The upside of the city is that it is a very safe place to live.

3. Saint John, New Brunswick

The average monthly cost of living for a single person (excluding rent): $698

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $873

The average cost of a meal for two: $95

The cost of water, electricity, and heating/cooling for a 52 square meter space: $202

The small city of Saint John has a population of 69,895 and is the oldest registered city in Canada. This city is the second most populous in New Brunswick. Its economy was historically dependent on shipbuilding but is now focused on information technology, tourism, and educational institutions.

Saint John has the largest oil refinery and dock in Canada, and its economic sectors are changing.

4. Saguenay, Quebec

The average monthly cost of living for a single person (excluding rent): $756

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $500

The average cost of a meal for two: $100

The cost of water, electricity, and heating/cooling for a 52 square meter space: $118

The city of Saguenay is located in the northern region of Quebec and is a three-hour drive from Quebec City. Given the low rental costs there, this city is a great place for the workforce, especially remote workers, who can save more of their income.

The small city of Saguenay is home to some of the most iconic villages in Quebec, featuring authentic French architecture, quaint streets, and plenty of local family-run businesses. The city currently has a population of 146,000.

5. Sherbrooke, Quebec

The average monthly living costs for a single person (not including rent): $778

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $613

The average cost of a meal for two: $75

Utilities and heating/cooling costs for a 52 square meter space: $151

One of the cheapest places to live in Canada is Sherbrooke, with about 161,323 residents. It’s an educational hub in the region, and the Université de Sherbrooke is the city’s largest employer. It has a great location, ideally connected by rail and major highways.

In this city, the highest number of international students in Quebec gathers; 40,000 foreign students are enrolled in 8 educational institutions here. Another draw of the city is its mountainous nature, many rivers and lakes, and ski resorts. Whether you are single, an entrepreneur, or married with a large family, you’ll definitely find affordable housing in this city.

6. New Glasgow, Nova Scotia

The average monthly living costs for a single person (not including rent): $795

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $800

The average cost of a meal for two: $87.50

Utilities and heating/cooling costs for a 52 square meter space: $202

New Glasgow is one of the smallest towns in Nova Scotia, with just over 9,000 residents. This small town is located on the banks of the River East, near the city of Pictou. In recent years, thanks to its recreational docks, peaceful living, and charming downtown, it has become a popular destination for retirees.

The cost of living in New Glasgow is very affordable. Its only downside is that it’s quite far from larger cities and industrial centers.

7. Kitchener, Ontario

The average monthly cost of living for a single person (excluding rent): $819

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment downtown: $1,642

The average cost of a meal for two: $98

The cost of water, electricity, and heating/cooling for a 52 square meter space: $198

Kitchener is the twin city of Waterloo, with a population of 233,222. It was called Berlin until 1916 and has one of the strongest German heritages among the cities in the Waterloo region. The University of Waterloo, one of Canada’s top universities, is located here.

Kitchener’s unemployment rate is very low, with more than 374,000 jobs in the city, 60% of which are full-time. The oldest homes in downtown Kitchener date back to before World War II. One of the most affordable neighborhoods in Kitchener is Victoria Hills. Industries that generate the most employment in Kitchener include manufacturing and technology. Living in Kitchener also places you close to the job market in Waterloo.

8. Kelowna, British Columbia

The average monthly cost of living for a single person (excluding rent): $856

The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment downtown: $1,731

The average cost of a meal for two: $80

The cost of water, electricity, and heating/cooling for a 52 square meter space: $130

Kelowna is the third largest metropolitan area in British Columbia, with a population of 153,148, and is rapidly growing. The service industry is the largest industry in the area.

The average salary in this city is on par with major metropolitan cities like Toronto, but the cost of living is significantly cheaper. Unfortunately, according to the McLean Crime Severity Index (CSI), Kelowna has one of the highest crime rates in Canada.

The impact of taxes on the cost of living in Canada.

Tax is one of the factors that greatly influences the cost of living in Canada, and there are three main types of tax in this country:

1. Income tax on employment and other income you receive.

2. Sales tax like the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) and Provincial Sales Tax (PST).

3. Property tax, usually levied by local governments on the value of land and buildings.

Income tax and sales tax directly affect the cost of living in Canada, as you’ll need to pay a certain amount to either the federal government, the provincial government, or both based on your purchases or income. It’s important to factor these amounts into your calculation of living expenses in Canada.

Cost of Tax in Canada

Income Tax

In Canada, tax is deducted from employee salaries, usually on a biweekly basis. Employees and self-employed individuals need to set aside money for taxes or pay them upfront. These taxes fund services like building public schools and universities, as well as healthcare and childcare.

The amount of tax you pay to the federal and provincial governments in Canada depends on your taxable income. For instance, in 2022, the federal income tax rates based on salary are as follows:

Annual Income (in Canadian dollars)	% and Amount of Tax
$50197	%15
Over $50197 to $100392	%20.5
Over $100392 to $155625	%26
Over $155625 to $221708	%29
Over $221708	%33

Those with lower incomes may qualify for many types of deductions when they file their tax returns.

Goods and Services Tax

In some provinces of Canada, two taxes, namely federal and provincial taxes, are applied to the purchase of goods and services. However, in Ontario, these taxes are combined as the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). This tax is calculated based on the price of the goods purchased, whether it’s a bottle of water or a new car.

Across Ontario, the HST rate is set at 13%, consisting of an 8% provincial portion and a 5% federal portion. Certain products and services are exempt from HST, and you may also qualify for other credits and discounts.

On the Canada tax page, you can find more detailed information about other types of taxes, such as vehicle tax and their costs.

The amount of income in Canadian provinces

Now that you’re familiar with the concept and amount of income tax and its impact on the cost of living in Canada, it’s also good to know about wages in Canadian provinces so you can better plan for your future expenses in the country.

The average hourly wage across Canada is $31.87.

Alberta has the highest wage rate in Canada. The average wage in this province is $34.65 per hour, which is about 9% higher than the national average. This can mainly be attributed to the oil industry in the province.

Additionally, incomes in Alberta are generally higher than the average wages in Canada across nearly all jobs outside the oil industry.

Wages in the Atlantic provinces (except Newfoundland and Labrador) and Manitoba are all lower than in other parts of Canada. However, the lower cost of living in these provinces compensates for the lower wage levels.

Next, we outline income levels in Canada broken down by province:

Province Name	Average Hourly Wage (CAD)	Average Weekly Wage (CAD)
Across Canada	$32	$1249
British Columbia	$32	$1282
Alberta	$35	$1397
Saskatchewan	$31	$1244
Manitoba	$28	$1117
Ontario	$33	$1282
Quebec	$30	$1160
New Brunswick	$26	$1049
Nova Scotia	$28	$1089
Prince Edward Island	$26	$1048
Newfoundland and Labrador	$30	$1026

The cost of student living in Canada

The cost of student living in Canada is cheaper compared to the living costs of other immigrants in the country. This is because students can opt for dormitories or shared apartments instead of renting independent apartments or houses.

For more complete information on this topic, check out the page on the cost of student living in Canada.

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Frequently asked questions

Which Canadian cities have the most expensive housing?

The cities of Vancouver and Toronto have the highest housing prices across Canada.

How much is the rent for a house in Toronto, Canada in 2024?

The average monthly rent for a house in Toronto, Canada for a two-person and four-person family is as follows:

Two-person family: $1,680

Four-person family: $3,542

What is the average annual income in Canada?

The average annual income in Canada is $36,340. The average income for jobs that require no prior experience and are suitable for newcomers starts at $29,565 a year, while the annual income for experienced employees with specific skills can be $86,860 or even higher.

Can I cover living expenses in Canada by working from home?

Yes, working from home can help cover many living expenses in Canada. These expenses can include rent, groceries, utility bills, and many other costs.

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