Cost of Living in Canada

Written by Rebeka Meszaros Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Rebeka Meszaros

Rebeka is a professional content writer who specializes in marketing, business, travel, and expat tips. She enjoys sharing practical, down-to-earth advice, whether it's helping businesses better their marketing strategy or providing insights about living overseas. Rebeka adds a personal touch to her writing, ensuring that every piece connects with readers.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 14, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

On average, a single person in Canada can expect to spend around C$3,327 per month (around €1,200), while a family of four would face about C$8,228 (roughly €5,400) in monthly expenses (Source: Numbeo; all prices in CAD).

In this article, we’ll break down the cost of living in Canada, covering essentials like food, transportation, utilities, leisure, and childcare to help you plan your budget efficiently.

How expensive is it to live in Canada?

Canada is the 12th most expensive country in the world. For a family of four, the estimated monthly expenses are around $5,211, with an additional $3,017 for rent, bringing the total to $8,228. For a single person, the monthly cost of living is estimated at $1,450, with rent adding another $1,877, totalling $3,327.

Canada's cost of living is high but still comparable to some European countries. A family of four in Canada spends around $8,228 monthly, while in Germany, the total is slightly lower at $7,586. In the Netherlands, it's a bit higher at $8,426. For a single person, monthly expenses in Canada total $3,327, compared to $2,831 in Germany and $3,542 in the Netherlands. Overall, Canada sits within a similar range to these European nations (Source: Numbeo).

Most expensive city to live in Canada?

Vancouver is the most expensive city in Canada by cost of living, with a single person spending around $4,349 a month. Victoria and Calgary come in 2nd and 3rd, costing about $3,784 and $3,619 per month. Vancouver definitely takes the lead when it comes to high living costs.

Cheapest city in Canada

The cheapest city in Canada is Sherbrooke, where the cost of living is around $1,468 a month. Other affordable options include Regina at $1,526 and Gatineau at $1,530. These cities offer a much lower cost of living compared to the bigger Canadian cities.

Cost of living in Canada vs the UK

When comparing the Canada cost of living with the UK, the expenses are quite similar. In the UK, a family of four can expect to spend around $8,047 per month, including rent, while a single person’s costs total about $3,335 monthly. In Canada, those numbers are $8,228 for a family of four and $3,327 for a single person. While Canada and the UK have comparable living expenses, rent can tip the scale slightly in favour of one over the other, depending on individual circumstances — especially if you live in one of the main cities (Source: Numbeo).

(London is a separate case, with living costs that far exceed the national average and the Canadian average.)

Comparing the cost of some everyday groceries (Source: Numbeo):

Cost of living in Canada vs the US

The cost of living in Canada is somewhat lower than in the US. In the US, a family of four faces monthly expenses of about $9,684, including rent, while a single person’s costs come to around $3,989. In comparison, Canada’s monthly costs are $8,228 for a family of four and $3,327 for a single person. While both countries have high living expenses, the US tends to be pricier overall, especially when it comes to rent (Source: Numbeo).

Comparison of everyday groceries (Source: Numbeo):

Rent per month

The average monthly rent in Canada varies depending on the location and size of the apartment (Source: Numbeo):

• Apartment (1 bedroom) in city center: $1,877
• Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of center: $1,682
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) in city center: $3,017
• Apartment (3 bedrooms) outside of center: $2,560

In 2024, rental prices in Canada vary a lot depending on where you look. Vancouver and Toronto are pricey due to high demand and not enough places to rent. Calgary’s market is on the rise, and Montreal offers a more balanced mix of options. Costs depend a lot on the location and size of the place. For expats, this means you’ll find both affordable areas and more expensive city spots, so it’s important to check out local trends when choosing where to live (Source: Signature Enterprise).

How to find an apartment in Canada

To find a rental in Canada, start by checking sites like Kijiji, Craigslist, Padmapper, and Rentboard. You can also look at local Facebook groups for housing in your city. Use filters for location, price, and size to find what fits your needs and be ready for landlords to ask for documents like proof of employment, bank statements, or references, since you might not have a Canadian credit history yet. Rentals often start on the 1st of the month, so timing your search is key. If you're new to Canada, it’s a good idea to book a short-term place on Airbnb or through a local hotel for a week or two while you explore neighborhoods and find something more permanent.

Renting can be tricky in high-demand cities like Vancouver and Toronto, where competition and prices are high. Watch out for scams — never send a deposit before seeing the place, and avoid deals that seem way too cheap. In Quebec, landlords can’t legally ask for a security deposit, so be cautious if they do. In other provinces, expect to pay a deposit, usually half or a full month’s rent. Always ask if utilities like electricity, heating, and water are included, as they often aren’t. To know your rights as a tenant, check out provincial tenancy laws and visit the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for more info on renting in Canada.

If you need help with your housing search in Canada, we’re here to assist. We can provide a personalized quote or connect you with our trusted partners who have helped many others find rental options across the country. Let us make your search easier and more efficient.

Utilities

Average monthly costs for utilities in Canada (Source: Numbeo):

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $208
• Mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data: $64
• Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data): $85

These costs can add up during the year, so if you want to save on utility costs in Canada, make sure to follow these tips:

• Monitor and control energy use: Use apps like MyHydro (British Columbia) and Hydro-Québec to track and adjust your electricity consumption. Smart devices like Plugzio can help you monitor energy usage too.
• Compare utility rates: Find the best deals in your area by comparing deals on websites like EnergyRates.ca and the Ontario Energy Board.
• Earn rewards for saving energy: Use OhmConnect to earn rewards for reducing energy use during peak times.
• Switch to energy-efficient appliances: Use Flipp to find deals on energy-efficient appliances and check for rebates from providers like Enbridge Gas to save on upgrades.

Public transport

Getting around in Canada is pretty straightforward, especially in the bigger cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. They all have solid public transport options like buses, trains, and subways. You can use Google Maps or apps like Transit and Moovit to plan your trips. For paying fares, Toronto has the PRESTO card, and Vancouver uses the Compass Card. If you're traveling longer distances, check out VIA Rail or Greyhound. Most cities are also pretty good about accessibility — you can find more info on the Canadian Urban Transit Association site.

Here’s a general overview of the prices for public transport in Canada (Numbeo):

• One-way ticket for local transport: $3.50
• Regular monthly pass: $104
• Starting fare for a taxi ride: $4.50
• An hour of waiting time in a taxi: $39
• Gasoline: $1.60 per liter

Food

For grocery shopping in Canada, your options are Loblaws, Metro, and Sobeys, as well as bulk stores like Walmart and Costco. Sign up for loyalty programs like PC Optimum and Air Miles to save on future purchases. Many large supermarkets have international aisles, and there are specialty stores in most cities. Use apps like Flipp for coupons and deals, and try online services like Instacart for convenient delivery. For those on a budget, check out local food banks through Food Banks Canada, which can help with the cost of living in Canada.

Depending on dietary and shopping habits, groceries in Canada cost around (Source: Reddit):

• For a single person: $200-$500
• For a couple: $400-$800
• For a family of four: $800-$1,500

Here are some average prices for eating out (Source: Numbeo):

• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $25
• Meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant (three-course): $100
• McMeal at McDonald's (or equivalent combo meal): $15
• Domestic beer (0.5 liter draught): $8
• Cappuccino (regular): $5.20
• Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle): $2.90
• Water (0.33 liter bottle): $2.30

Mobile phone plan

To get started with a mobile plan in Canada, you'll need a government-issued ID and possibly a credit check for postpaid plans, but you don’t need a check for prepaid ones. If you're bringing your own device, make sure it's unlocked. eSIM options are also available for compatible phones.

Major providers:

• Freedom Mobile: $50/month — Unlimited talk, text, 20GB data.
• Videotron (Quebec): $60/month — 10GB data, unlimited talk, and text.
• SaskTel (Saskatchewan): $65/month — Unlimited talk, text, 15GB data.

Budget-friendly options:

• Chatr Mobile: $25/month — Unlimited talk, text, 1GB data.
• Lucky Mobile: $25/month — Unlimited talk, text, 1GB data.
• PC Mobile: $30/month — 1GB of data, unlimited talk, and text.
• Fizz (Quebec and Ontario): From $20/month — Customizable prepaid plans.
• Cityfone: $30/month — 500MB data, unlimited talk, and text.

eSIM options:

• Rogers: $75/month — Unlimited talk, text, 25GB data.
• Virgin Plus: $50/month — 4GB data, unlimited talk, and text.
• SimplyConnect: $35/month — 500MB data, unlimited talk, and text.
• Airalo: International eSIM — From $5 for 1GB (7 days). Great for temporary use.

Childcare

Childcare in Canada comes in many forms, but costs and availability can differ greatly depending on the province. Benefits include quality early learning and government subsidies like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) to help with the high Canadian cost of living. However, finding a spot can be challenging due to long waitlists, so it's important to plan early. You can use the childcare and family benefits calculator to see how much support you can get.

Types of childcare and costs in Canada (Source: Arrive):

• Regulated childcare:
  • Full-day childcare centers: $181 to $1,986/month depending on the province.
  • Home daycare: Costs vary but are usually slightly lower than full-day centers (around $7.60 per day).
• Unregulated childcare:
  • Family childcare (home-based): Costs vary and are typically arranged directly with the caregiver.
  • Nannies/Sitters: Costs depend on the number of children and your agreement with the caregiver (anywhere between $14-$28/hour).
• Preschools and kindergarten: Often part of the public school system, making them more affordable.

On average for a year (Source: Numbeo):

• Preschool (or kindergarten), full day, private, monthly for 1 child: $1,138 (roughly €750)
• International primary school, yearly for 1 child: $17,756 (around €11,700)

Gym

When joining a gym in Canada, be aware of extra fees for joining and canceling. There are some affordable gyms, but if you want to save money, the local community centers often have even cheaper options. In some provinces, like Quebec, consumer protection laws limit cancellation fees, so it’s worth knowing your rights. Watch for special deals or free trial periods that can help you save.

Major gym brands and their monthly prices:

• GoodLife Fitness: from $68
• Fit4Less: from $16
• Anytime Fitness: from $53
• Planet Fitness: from $15
• Movati Athletic: from $68
• Fitness club, monthly fee for 1 adult: $57 (around €37)