Cost of living in Canada across 5 popular Canadian cities

Canada is a beautiful country with endless opportunities and scenic landscapes that will have you tempted to move right away! But how do you know where to go? One of the most common factors people consider when moving to Canada is the cost of living. On an average, the cost of living in Canada majorly comprises of accommodation, transport, food, and entertainment.

So let’s get started by understanding the cost breakup…

Cost break up 

To determine which Canadian city is right for you, it is necessary to understand what the living costs include. Your average cost of living can include (and is not limited to)- 

1. Rent – Housing 
2. Groceries and Food 
3. Transportation Costs 
4. Leisure 
5. Childcare 
6. Clothing 

For a family, accommodation in Canada can cost anywhere from CAD 7,847 to CAD 9,808 per year. But for a single person seeking residency in the country, the estimate rent is approximately CAD 1,125. 

The prices may also vary depending upon whether you purchase your home or rent it. So many newcomers prefer paying rent rather than purchasing a house. This gives them enough time to get acquainted with the real estate market in Canada. 

However, buying a home might be the right choice if you are considering permanent residency and have sufficient funds. Your income in Canadian dollars should be able to cover the required down payment, as well as a regular mortgage. Additionally, you may need a 2% to 3% over and above mortgage for regular maintenance and related expenses.

Side note: The cost of living in the UK, or the USA, however, is slightly higher as opposed to that in Canada. 

Now that we have an idea about the overall costs, let’s look at the living costs in the top 5 most popular cities in Canada-

 Ontario 

In terms of area, Ontario is ranked as the second-largest Canadian province with the highest population, which is roughly 14.7 million.

On an average, a 1 bedroom apartment in Ontario can cost as much as CAD 1,821 per person. Groceries, including essentials like bread, cheese, milk, rice, and also meat can cost around CAD 300 a month (per person). 

Additionally, the transportation costs can be expected to reach as much as CAD 200 in a month. 

Residential internet in Ontario can be a significant contributor to your monthly bills. Depending upon usage, most internet and phone bills vary from around CAD 40 to 100 in a month. This will depend on the connection speed and the package of your choice. 

Quebec

Quebec is the French-speaking province of Canada by law. All road and directional signs and retail employees living here are required to speak French. But English is widely spoken as well, so communication will not be too much of a hassle for you.

A single person living in Quebec City can expect to spend CAD 1,024 per month monthly (excluding rent). For a family of four, however, this amount triples to CAD 3,757.78 per month. So having the right job can do wonders in supporting your life here! 

The rent for a 900 square feet furnished accommodation is expected to cost around CAD 1,372 in some expensive areas. The utility costs (gas, heating, and electricity) can bring up your monthly bill by around CAD 115. 

Purchase of monthly tickets to use public transport can amount to CAD 86, while opting for cab rides can cost CAD 19 per trip on average. 

Ottawa (the Capital) 

Ottawa is located in the eastern area of southern Ontario, straddled between Ontario and the Quebec border. The city is also a great city choice for aspiring students, as it is home to 2 large universities – Carleton University and the University of Ottawa.

The rent for your apartment can range from CAD 700 to 1,400 per month depending upon the area. However, if you’re a student, it would be relatively easier to find cheaper housing at the local universities.

Excluding rent, a single person can expect to spend around CAD 1,194 per month in the city of Ottawa. In terms of transportation costs, public transport and fare for cab services can amount to CAD 122.50 per month. 

If you consider going out to an inexpensive restaurant or bar every weekend and visiting the cinema twice a month, your expenses can range from CAD 150 to CAD 200. 

Toronto 

This is the largest city in the country in terms of population. It’s also home to an international trading center. 

The housing in Toronto costs can vary depending upon the kind of housing and location that you select. On average, you can expect to shell out CAD 1,000 to CAD 2,700 per month for rent. It’s also important to note that prices often increase depending upon amenities such as proximity to highways, public transportation, and services such as a gym or a pool. 

With regards to electricity, the baseline figure of CAD 50 per month can be added to your cost of living in Canada. This is subject to an increase depending on how much electricity you consume. Appliances such as air conditioners, washing machines, and dishwashers can increase the cost, so remember to use them wisely. 

You can expect to spend between CAD 50 – 100 per month on internet expenses. However, there are discounts available for students, so be sure to ask! 

Food and groceries will once again depend upon your personal needs, but they can cost anywhere between CAD 40 -100 per week. Several affordable grocery options are available that can keep your expenses low. 

Montreal 

Initially the largest in the country in terms of population, Montreal was taken over by Toronto. It is also located in the southeast of Canada and goes by the name of “Ville-Marie.”

The expenses for a person living in Montreal can be as much as CAD 1,006.30 per month. Furthermore, a one-bedroom apartment can cost around CAD 1,068.95 per month. It is necessary to note that this rent does not include electricity and internet usage. 

You can expect your phone bills to touch CAD 65 per month. This is a price that will increase depending upon your usage and consumption. 

Montreal may be a small enough city to cover by walking, but this might not be feasible at all times. If you consider using public transportation regularly, expect to spend CAD 85 per month for the same. Including the basics such as groceries, your bills can go up to CAD 299.92 per month.

The best part? When it comes to Canada, healthcare is not something you have to worry about. Permanent residents and Canadian citizens can opt to apply for insurance, which takes care of most healthcare services. 

The healthcare system here is designed for the public and paid for via taxes. While the taxes may seem on the higher side, the money is reinvested into the healthcare infrastructure of the country. This ensures that you are in good health without having to spend more than necessary! 

FAQs 

Q1. Should I consider living in Montreal or Ottawa? 

Answer – Montreal is a great choice for those with an active lifestyle. Ottawa, on the other hand, has prices designed specifically for students. 

Q2. What are the healthcare costs in Canada? 

Answer – If you apply for public health insurance or permanent residency, most of your healthcare costs in Canada will be taken care of. 

Q3. Should I rent or buy my apartment? 

Answer – This depends upon what your plans are. It is recommended that you spend a couple of years understanding the real estate market in Canada before committing to a home. 

With this guide to the cost of living in Canada, you should be able to make a decision that is best suited to your financial capacity. Do your research right, plan your finances and you will enjoy the benefits of a quality Canadian lifestyle! 

We hope you like this article and found it informative. If you have any doubts feel free to contact us or you can also comment below! 

Liked this blog? Read: Top 10 jobs in Canada for Indians.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Study Abroad Expert

Aastha Arya is a Senior Content Writer at iSchoolConnect who writes about topics covering study abroad trends, exclusive news updates and prolific college courses. She has a 4-year of experience in this field and also likes to keep tabs on recent events, visa policy changes, and many other concerns that affect international students.

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