Looking for an affordable area to live in in Canada, you are in the right place. Childrensarea.net suggests this guide to help you find places in Canada to rent or live in with reasonable living costs.
Sure enough, Canada isn’t the cheapest living area. However, it’s one of the least expensive. A global data index based on the cost of living puts Canada in the 21 ranks out of 109 countries.
The cost of living within Canada is costly compared to other nations. But, some provinces cost significantly less. For instance, Vancouver’s total price of living is higher than in Toronto and many other cities.
The most expensive area to reside in in Canada depends on the type of report you read. In general, those located in BC and Ontario, primarily due to the very high housing cost. There are various costs in every city within the provinces; however, Vancouver and Toronto are the most expensive.
By analyzing the costs for living in Canada, we’ve found affordable areas in BC such as Surrey, Ontario, and Kingston. The prairie and Maritime Provinces such as Halifax are among Canada’s most desirable places to reside for low cost.
What is the Cost of Living in Canada?
According to Numbeo, Canada sits as the 26th most expensive nation. Comparatively against those in the United States, the cost of living in Canada is lower, as illustrated below.
| Prices of goods and services within the United States are 0.20% more expensive than in Canada (without rent) |
| Rent and consumer prices within the United States are 7.09% more expensive than Canada |
| The rent prices in the United States are 23.09% higher than Canada |
| Restaurants in the United States are 3.56% higher than those in Canada |
| Food products prices in the United States are 0.84% more expensive than Canada |
| In the United States, the local buying power is 22.12% more than Canada |
In Canada, you could expect to pay $1,131.39 per month for one person and around $4,055.19 for an entire group of 4 people. It includes just the living expenses without the cost of the rent.
How To Find an Affordable City in Canada
The living costs in Canada are different from one province to another. So, you should know the living costs in each province. If you can resettle wherever you like to, think about the most affordable locations in Canada to live in.
Even if you select one of the best locations in Canada to purchase a home, it won’t be cheap in terms of food and other commonplace expenses.
In addition, you should consider the provincial taxes, particularly in the case of the most affordable areas.
This comprehensive list includes the most affordable places to reside in Canada according to various criteria.
Cheapest Cities To Live in Canada
You can look at some of the most affordable areas to reside in Canada below and then take a look at the costs for a single person and the average cost of housing and median income.
Living costs data are obtained from Numbeo.
1. Sherbrooke, Quebec
- Population: 167,762
- Highlights The highlights include nature, heritage sites
- The main drivers for employment are electronic parts garments, clothing, textiles, and education
- Living expenses for one adult: $924.89, not including rent
- The average cost of home average home costs: $249,000
- Median annual income: $78,120
Sherbrooke is one of the most affordable cities to reside in and is located in southern Quebec. It’s 20.81 percent less expensive living there than in Toronto, and on average, the cost of living is 68.36 percent lower than in Toronto, according to Numbeo.
Toronto’s living costs are 13% less than in Montreal, making it among the most affordable cities within Canada.
2. Quebec City, QC
- Population: 832,110
- Some highlights: Fort City dating back to 1608, charming cobblestone streets and boutiques, restaurants along the Saint Lawrence River, UNESCO world heritage places.
- The main employment drivers are defense, services, public administration, and tourism.
- Living expenses for one adult: $1,071.66, without rent.
- Average house costs: $459,955
- The median annual income is $40,229
This safe and charming city is full of fascinating landmarks dating back thousands of years. It is a city with a European impression with the massive Chateau Frontenac Hotel and the impressive Citadelle of Quebec located in the heart of the old town.
Thanks to some affordable rental properties in the downtown core in Canada, this is a great location to be close to activity.
Despite all its advantages, it’s hard to believe that living there is affordable. It’s 7.26 percent less than what it costs to live in the city of Toronto and 58.40 percent less expensive than the cost of rent.
3. Saint John, New Brunswick
- Population: 784,156
- Highlights: The Historic, Bay of Fundy
- The main employment drivers are: The most outstanding and longest-running shipbuilding industries, and information technology in education.
- Living expenses for one individual: $1,237.64, without rent.
- The average cost of a home: $252,871.
- The median annual income is $79,586.
Saint John has a higher cost of living than Toronto, by 2.24 percent. However, the rent is 60.32 percent less than in Toronto. It’s among the most affordable areas in Canada and is also among the most thrilling cities.
It’s situated in the Bay of Fundy, the most rapid tide change in the world. There’s a wealth of history in the city, and you can enjoy the farmer’s markets situated in a historic architectural buildings dating back to 1876.
4. Laval, QC
- Population: 48,988
- Highlights: Suburb of Montreal, set on Ile Jesus, Nature Center, Saint-Vincent-de-Paul historic district.
- The main employment drivers: Retail, industrial, pharmaceutical, technology.
- The cost of living per person: $965.94, without rent.
- The average cost of housing: $367,990
- A median annual income of $66,070
Laval forms part of Laval is part of the Greater Montreal Area and is located on Ile Jesus on the Prairies River. There are water trails and a Nature Center with gardens, lakes, and livestock.
The historic district is home to neoclassical structures and cafes. Employers are from SAP, Intact, and the University of Montreal.
It is among the most affordable locations in Canada. It’s 17.39 percent lower than Toronto in terms of living costs. It’s also 52.19 percent less in renting costs.
5. Halifax, NS
- Population: 414,777
- Highlights: 11th top university of Canada, Dalhousie University. Port City.
- The main drivers of employment are Agriculture, fishing, port, and forest products.
- The cost of living per individual: $1,209.69, not including rent.
- Cost of housing: $46,000
- The median annual income is $69,553.
The capital of Nova Scotia, this University City is an important economic center in the eastern part of Canada. Many excellent business and government services cater to the people who live here.
It’s not expensive to dine out, but grocery goods are more costly. But it’s still much cheaper than Toronto, according to Numbeo.
Halifax is 0.83 percent more costly than Toronto in terms of living costs but 34.62 percent lower in terms of renting.
6. Montreal, QC
- People: 1.8 million
- The highlights: European touch, largest underground complex globally, and second-largest economy.
- The main drivers for employment are electronic products and aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and telecom.
- Living expenses for one individual: $1,108.28, not including the cost of the rent.
- Average house costs: $565,421
- The median annual income is $41,729
Montreal is the most crowded city in Quebec, and many people who live there are of European roots. Montreal is the distinction of being an « indoor city » and is the media and entertainment capital of the province.
It is home to the fifth-best university globally, the University of Montreal. In addition, there are five banks with big names that have their headquarters in Montreal.
This town is hectic; it includes many arts, entertainment, and culture. For youngsters, this city is one of Canada’s most beautiful areas to reside in.
Montreal is about 5.14 percent cheaper than Toronto in terms of cost of living. It is also 39.43 percent less in the price of renting.
7. Lethbridge, AB
- Population: 102,911
- The highlights include 130 parks Lethbridge Viaduct, longest, the highest steel trestle bridge of N. America.
- Principal employment drivers: Agriculture and hospitality, retail and healthcare, education.
- Living expenses for one person: $1,265.66, without rent.
- The average cost of a home is $356,573
- Median annual income: $74,084.
Alberta can be described as the most affordable province to reside in in Canada. Lethbridge is the most affordable city to live in within Alberta.
It is a cold and chilly winter climate and hot summers with an arid climate. An essential employment sector is agriculture. However, it is also a significant player in the transport, industrial and financial industries.
There’s plenty of green space and more than 130 parks. Lethbridge is a cost-effective place to live. Lethbridge is 3.87 percent higher than Toronto. However, it is 49.56 percent less expensive in rental expenses.
8. Abbotsford, BC
- Population: 161,584
- Highlights: Near the US border and farm country.
- The main employment driver: Agriculture.
- Living expenses for an individual: $1,113.70 (not including rent).
- Theverage home cost is $1,013,514
- A median annual income: $72,511.
Abbotsford is situated close to the city of Vancouver and is also the cheapest city in BC. It’s 17% lower in terms of housing.
The cost of rent is 35.45 percent less than in Toronto. It is also a place of moderate temperatures and is among the warmest places to reside in Canada.
9. Regina, SK
- Population: 263,184
- Some highlights: Parks, Wascana Lake, Saskatchewan Science Center.
- The main employment drivers are Oil, potash, and natural gas.
- The cost of living per individual: $1,116.14
- The average cost of a home $37,900
- Median annual income: $104,401
Regina is the capital of Saskatchewan with various Canadian exhibitions of culture, including The Royal Saskatchewan Museum and the MacKenzie Art Gallery. The RCMP Heritage Center celebrates the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
According to Numbeo, Regina is 6.53 percent less expensive than Toronto when it comes to the living cost, and rent is on average 48.03 percent less than Toronto.
It is one of the cheapest locations in Canada to reside in. Yet, it might not be the most desirable since it’s been known as one of the top cities in Canada in terms of crime.
10. Edmonton, AB
- Population: 1,491,000
- The highlights: Capital of Alberta, University of Alberta, festival city of Canada.
- The main employment drivers are oil and gas, petrochemicals, financial.
- Living expenses for one person: $1,192.46, without rent.
- The average home cost is $477,000
- Median annual income: $121,630
Alberta is among the most reasonable provinces to live in within Canada. You can earn cash in Edmonton with many opportunities in the fields of oil and gas. You can also make a fortune in the university and its regional financial hub.
Top employers are located in the petrochemical sector in this city. The nightlife scene is vibrant, with various celebrations of culture and heritage.
Based on Numbeo, Edmonton has a cost of living that is 2.09 less than Toronto and rents 43.59 percent less than Toronto.
11. Nanaimo, BC
- Population: 103,071
- Some highlights Harbor city Vancouver Island University campus.
- Main employment drivers: Coal, forestry, government.
- The cost of living is $1,251.87 (not including rent).
- The average house cost is $769,700
- The median annual income: $37,050
Nanaimo is situated right in the water along the East Coast on Vancouver Island. It is cheaper for international students to study in Canada. It’s a gorgeous climate, and even though it’s more expensive than living in Toronto, the cost of living is 33.98 percent lower, according to Numbeo.
12. Kitchener, ON
- Population: 51,368
- Some highlights include German heritage, 8th most prestigious school within Canada, University of Waterloo, KOI Festival.
- Main employment drivers: Manufacturing.
- The cost of living per person: $1,108.05, not including the rent.
- Average house costs: $841,764
- The median annual income is $70,774
Kitchener is a part of Waterloo and is home to major companies, including Research In Motion, Toyota Manufacturing, Manulife, and Sunlife Financial.
Kitchener is 7.55% cheaper than Toronto regarding living costs and 30.49 % in terms of housing.
13. Windsor, ON
- Population: 337,680
- Attractions Waterfront, vibrant
- The main employment drivers are Casinos and engine plants for Ford.
- The cost of living is $1,100.81 (not including rent).
- Cost of a home of $185,584
- Median annual income: $55,450
According to Numbeo, Windsor is 8.05 percent less expensive than Toronto’s living expenses. Rent is 40.29 percent lower than in Toronto.
Windsor is known for its components for engines made by Ford and is located in the middle of Detroit city. There are plenty of waterfronts with monuments to the military in the Dieppe Garden.
It’s the third-highest populous city in the southern part of Ontario. While Windsor home prices have increased in the past few years, it’s one of the most affordable cities in Canada to buy a home.
14. Charlottetown, PEI
- Population: 80,347
- The main highlights are historical monuments, coastal, Victoria Row, Confederation Centre of the Arts, and Gothic Revival St. Dunstan’s Basilica.
- The main drivers of employment are agriculture, tourism, fishing and agriculture, Bioscience, aerospace information technology, and renewable energy.
- Living expenses for one adult: $1,269.48, not including rent.
- Housing cost: $337,148
- The median annual income is $78,220
Charlottetown is the home of Anne of Green Gables’s house, an enchanting show about a young girl growing up in a simple. Victoria Row offers shops and restaurants.
The city’s historic past is evident in many stunning historic buildings and green rolling hills. It’s like living on a small island, yet enough to give you an urban atmosphere.
Regarding friendliness and people’s hospitality, PEI is one of Canada’s best cities to reside.
15. Winnipeg, MB
- Population: 864,026
- Highlights: The historical intersection between The Red and Assiniboine rivers, lots of green space, and festivals in summer. The longest skating rink in the world.
- The main employment drivers are Aerospace, advanced manufacturing ICT, agribusiness, and advanced manufacturing.
- The cost of living per person: $1,134.18, not including rent.
- The cost of housing is $364,000
- A median annual income of $68,402
Winnipeg is among the most costly place in Manitoba, yet it’s one of the most affordable places in Canada to reside.
Winnipeg is the seventh-largest city in Canada and is home to lots of snow during hot summers. Employment opportunities include manufacturing, trade, healthcare, agriculture, and education.
For Numbeo, Winnipeg is 5.35 percent less expensive than Toronto in terms of living costs and 46.65 percent less costly to rent than Toronto.
16. Red Deer, AB
- Population: 107,646
- Highlights Alberta Sports Hall of Fame & Museum, Bower Ponds, Red Deer College.
- Main employment drivers: Oil, cattle, agriculture.
- Living expenses for one adult: $1,166.80, not including rent.
- The average cost of a home: $346,821
- Median annual income: $95,630
Red Deer is halfway between Calgary and Edmonton. It has some great outdoor activities like Bower Ponds near the Red Deer River, allowing you to paddle a boat and skate in winter during the summer months.
The majority of the population lives in urban areas within the city. However, there’s lots of agricultural activity in the suburbs.
17. Prince George, BC
- Population: 83,540
- Highlights: Art galleries, Eskers Provincial Park, Fort George Canyon Provincial Park.
- Main employment drivers: Forestry, Central BC Railway.
- The cost of living per adult: $1,103.85, not including the cost of rent.
- The average price of a home: is $455,842
- The median annual income is $75,690
Prince George is in the region of the interior of BC, located on the majestic Fraser River and the Nechako River. There are a lot of museums in the area, and Prince George is indeed the central point of Cariboo Country.
There are a variety of natural attractions like the Fort George Canyon Provincial Park, which is famous for its dramatic whirlpools.
The University of Northern British Columbia is located here among the most affordable city for foreign students across Canada.
It’s also among the rental costs that are the lowest within Canada. According to Numbeo, the rent is 3.98 percent less than Toronto’s cost of living. It’s also 46.63 percent less expensive to rent.
18. Surrey, BC
- Population: 588,490
- Highlights: Urban and rural various ethnicities, plenty of work opportunities.
- Principal employment drivers: Advanced Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Clean Energy, and Healthcare.
- Living expenses for one individual: $1,148.89, not including rent.
- Average home cost: $1,146.787
- The annual median income is $77,494
According to our list, it’s one of the most pleasant cities in Canada. Although it’s not the most affordable, it is pretty close to Vancouver’s costly city.
It’s an urban zone that is a mixture of agricultural and rural. It’s also the hub of industry of BC which means there are plenty of jobs available.
You can also relish a range of ethnic cuisines since the region comprises various cultural Asian minorities.
According to Numbeo, Surrey is 3.51 percent less expensive than Toronto in terms of cost to live and 20.76 percent in rent.
19. Moncton, NB
- Population: 85,198
- The highlights include Transportation Discovery Center, Capitol Theatre, Magnetic Hill.
- Principal employment drivers The main drivers of employment are retail, wholesale, and tourism.
- Living expenses: $1,205.22, Not including rent.
- Cost of a home $192,889
- The median annual income is $72,450
Moncton is a thriving maritime city that is close to the Atlantic Ocean. Tourists visit the town to view Magnetic Hill Bay of Fundy Tidal Bore and the RCMP Memorial.
There are many outdoor experiences, and it’s among the most affordable rental options across Canada with a beautiful retirement community.
As per Numbeo, Moncton is 4.38 percent cheaper than Toronto regarding the cost of living and 49.57 percent lower when renting.
20. St. Catharines, ON
- Population: 420,813
- The highlights: Niagara Region, the sixth-largest urban region in Ontario.
- Main employment drivers: Shipbuilding, mills.
- The cost of living per: $1,045.56, not including rent.
- The average house costs $730,000
- The median annual income is $59,256
Also known for its status as the « Garden City » of Canada, The city provides peace and does not appear crowded.
Near Toronto and Hamilton, The city is also home to a diverse community. It is an excellent place to reside in Ontario and yet still central.
St. Catharines is a growing city, and the costs for homes continue to increase. Statistics reveal that the area is 12.38 percent less expensive than Toronto in terms of living cost and 36.63 percent less costly in rent.
21. Niagara Falls, ON
- Population: 418,189
- Highlights The wine country is a famous waterfall.
- Principal employment drivers: Tourism and gambling, hydroelectric power, and hydroelectric.
- Living expenses for one adult: $1,211.39, without rent.
- The average cost of a home is $693,393
- The median annual income is $36,346
The Regional Municipality of Niagara is on the west bank of the Niagara River. Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are both within a short distance. There are many vineyards within the vicinity as well.
It’s among the most popular places and is much less expensive than Toronto. Niagara is 2.19 percent lower in cost of living and 40.79 percent cheaper to rent when compared with Toronto.
22. London, ON
- Population: 383,822 Highlights: Near The US frontier, home of The University of Western Ontario, parks, museums, Thames River.
- Main employment drivers: Healthcare, finance, education.
- The cost of living per individual: $1,131.51, not including the cost of the rent.
- The average cost of a home: $690,861
- The median annual income is $83,246
This university’s city is located north of Lake Erie and close to the US border. There are numerous parks, museums, and greenways to be explored.
It’s the region’s center for education and healthcare, and the major employers are Western University and TD Canada Trust bank.
London is 5.85 percent less expensive than Toronto in terms of the price of life. For rent, it is 26.89 percent lower than in Toronto.
23. Kingston, ON
- Population: 594,531
- The highlights: Limestone city located in Lake Ontario, military history.
- The main drivers of employment are healthcare, public education, tourism, and government.
- Living expenses for one individual: $1,067.93, without rent.
- The average house costs 464,083 dollars
- The median annual income is $67,485
Kingston is a stunning city that has many historic buildings. It’s an ideal place to live in if you’re looking for top-quality healthcare services.
Transport, dining out, and activities for leisure are cheaper in this city. In contrast, childcare facilities and utility costs are higher.
But, Numbeo reveals the cost of living is 7.96 percent less than Toronto, and the rent is 36.03 percent less expensive.
24. Thunder Bay, ON
- Population: 112,909
- Highlights: The highlights include: Lake Superior, historic, Mount McKay, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
- The main drivers of employment are manufacturing, transportation, mining, education, and forest.
- The cost of living per individual: $1,238.00, not including rent.
- The average house costs $276,289
- The median annual income is $66,163
Thunder Bay has plenty of lakefronts and is home to several outdoor activities. It is possible to hike to the top of Mount McKay to see stunning views.
There’s also The Sleeping Giant Provincial Park with trails and the chance to spot wolves and moose. This is an excellent spot to go for nature lovers seeking the lowest cost of renting in Canada.
It’s 2.22 percent higher than what it costs to live in Toronto; however, the cost of rent is 46.92 percent lower, according to Numbeo.
25. Weyburn, SK
- Population: 10,870
- Highlights: Along the Souris River, largest inland grain gathering point.
- The main employment drivers are oil and gas and grain.
- Living expenses for one adult: $968.43, not including rent.
- Cost of a home $331,846
- The median annual income is $78,592
Weyburn is situated along the Souris River, a charming little town on the prairie.
Living costs are at the same level as other areas of Saskatchewan and are 7 percent less than the average for Canada. Weyburn is 42% less expensive than the nation’s average in terms of living expenses.
26. Quesnel, BC
- Population: 23,146
- Highlights are on the Fraser River, friendly charming.
- Main employment drivers: Education, healthcare, forestry.
- Living expenses for one individual: $710.23, without rent.
- The average cost of a home is $228,687
- The median annual income is $59,088
Quesnel is located in the Cariboo Region, and outdoor lovers have access to numerous rivers and lakes for fishing and hiking. It’s a small town, but it’s got everything you’ll need. It is close to Prince George, which is the region’s center.
Restaurants and grocery shopping are more expensive since Quesnel is a bit far from the central regions of BC. However, it’s one of the most affordable locations to rent or purchase a home in Canada.
27. Barrie, ON
- Population: 153,356
- Highlights: Kempenfelt Bay, Urban.
- Principal employment drivers are natural resources and agriculture manufacturing, retail.
- The cost of living per individual: $1,065.97 (not including rent).
- The average house costs is $744,230
- The annual median income is $77,904
Barrie is unique in the sense of its political independence. Single-tier city.
It’s part of an expanded urban area referred to by Greater Golden Horseshoe. As for expenses, it’s 12.28 percent less than Toronto, and the rent is 23.45 percent lower.
Cheapest Places to Live in Ontario
In terms of the most affordable areas to reside in Ontario, There are many, like:
- Thunder Bay
- Windsor
- Barrie
- Kingston
Cheapest Cities to Live in BC
Although BC isn’t cheap in terms of tax, however, these are the most affordable cities to live in BC:
- Surrey
- Prince George
- Abbotsford
- Quesnel
Warmest and Cheapest Places to Live in Canada
For the warmest areas to reside in Canada, which are still reasonably priced, Hope is located out of Vancouver. Abbotsford is another possibility.
Both are located in BC, close to the coast to the west; you can enjoy the warmest temperatures there. It’s not too cold in winter, and it’s not as hot during summer.
If you’re searching for extreme summers that are hot and cold winters, go to places like Rimouski, Quebec, or Brockville, Ontario.
Cheapest Places To Rent in Canada
The cities that have the most affordable rental rates are:
- Quebec City, Quebec
- Laval, Quebec.
- St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Regina, Saskatchewan
- Winnipeg, Manitoba
Cheapest Provinces to Live in Canada
Manitoba
According to provinces, Manitoba ranks among the most affordable if you look at the cost to live in Canada. It is among the most affordable places to live here, and the economy is robust and steady. Manitoba is home to over 1.3 million people living there.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick is an Atlantic province, with the cost of living at six percent lower than the national average. It is among the most affordable locations in Canada to purchase a house that has an ocean view. The city of the main interest is Moncton.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador is the most eastern province in Canada, with a rate of 16 percent less expensive in terms of the cost of living compared to Toronto. Although it’s probably the most affordable province in Canada, there is some shortage of jobs. It is. However, it functions as one of the retirement destinations in Canada.
Nova Scotia
If you’re looking for the most desirable areas in Canada at a lower cost, Nova Scotia fits the criteria. Living costs are 6 percent lower than the average for Canada, which makes it one of the most affordable cities to reside in Canada.