Average Cost of Living in Canada in 2024 for Newcomers & International Students

Unlocking Canada’s Cost of Living: Navigating Finances, Lifestyle, and Opportunities for a Seamless Transition.

The Great White North is known for its vast landscapes, friendly residents, high standard of living, excellent healthcare and quality public education system. But if cost alone were a consideration for you to move to Canada, you would be disenchanted. Don’t be.

This guide will provide you with all you need to know about how you can plan your monthly and annual budgets based on the overall national average cost of living in Canada.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Living?

Let’s start with taxes. Canadian education from kindergarten to grade 12 is free. Even the healthcare services that are paid for through taxes. Small wonder then that the tax rates are relatively higher than other developed economies. Taxes, apart from income tax, include property tax and sales tax, which can vary depending on the province. Understand the Canadian income tax rates thoroughly. 

A 5% federal tax is levied on all individuals in the country. In some provinces like Ontario, businesses charge what is called as a Harmomised Sales Tax (HST) of around 13-15%, including the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The income tax paid is directly proportional to the annual income earned. The rates range from 15-33% at the federal level and 4-21% at the provincial level.

When you go out to shop, you will notice that the sales tax is not included on the label. So, the amount you end up paying at the cashier would be a little more than what is displayed on the counter.

Another significant factor that influences the Canadian lifestyle is the expenses related to housing. Rent prices can vary greatly depending on the province and city, with urban areas generally being more expensive.

In addition to these factors, individuals need to consider the cost of taxes, insurance, clothing, and utilities when calculating their average cost of living in Canada. Insurance costs for health, home, and auto can also contribute to the overall cost of living. Finally, individuals need to budget for clothing expenses, which can be affected by the changing weather conditions, and utility bills, such as electricity, heating, and water costs.

Average Monthly Cost 

The average monthly expense of living in Canada varies depending on factors such as family size and location. The average monthly cost for a single person is around $2,500, while a family of four, including two children, spends approximately $4,000 per month. The cost of housing constitutes a significant portion of these expenses, with the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in a major city being around $1,500. The average grocery expenses would amount to around $500-700 CAD. 

Average Salary

In terms of national average salary, Canadians earn an average household income of about $70,000 per year. However, this figure also varies based on geographic location and profession. For instance, individuals living in urban centers might earn higher salaries compared to those in rural areas. Furthermore, certain professions like healthcare and technology tend to pay above-average salaries.

Major Cities vs. Smaller Provinces & Territories

When it comes to choosing a place to live, one of the major debates is whether to settle in a major city or a smaller province or territory. Both options have their own charms and drawbacks, and it ultimately boils down to personal preferences and priorities.

Major cities, such as New York, London, or Tokyo are known for their bustling energy. These vibrant metropolises are often cultural hubs with a wide range of entertainment options, world-class museums, theaters, nightlife and decent infrastructure.

But there are downsides too. The national average cost of living is typically higher, with skyrocketing rent, expensive groceries and increased competition for housing. The fast-paced lifestyle can be overwhelming and stressful for some people, with long commutes and overcrowded public spaces. Additionally, major cities are often associated with higher crime rates and pollution levels, which can diminish the quality of life for residents.

On the other hand, smaller provinces and territories provide a tranquil and peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle of crowded cities. These areas are often characterized by scenic beauty and a closer connection to nature. The cost of living tends to be more affordable, with lower housing prices, cheaper groceries, and a generally lower cost of daily expenses. Furthermore, smaller provinces and territories can offer unique job opportunities, such as specialized industries or government positions that are specific to the area.

However, smaller provinces and territories may not have the same variety of entertainment options or cultural experiences as major cities. Educational and healthcare facilities may not be as advanced, and transportation services might be limited.

Each option has its own distinct perks, and it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision that aligns with one’s lifestyle and aspirations.

Transportation Costs

Public transportation in Canada is reasonably good with city buses plying the highways with reasonable frequency. In Toronto, Canada’s biggest city and Vancouver, the monthly average cost of commuting using public transport ranges from $120 to $145. The cost for an adult monthly pass for public transit is $112. 

Car parking rates also contribute significantly to transportation costs. The median car parking rate in cities like Toronto is around $200 per month, whereas it is slightly lower in other provinces.

Car insurance rates also significantly affect transportation costs. These rates vary by province due to different regulations and factors like crime rates and claim history. Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec generally have higher rates compared to other provinces. On average, annual car insurance rates range from $1,500 to $2,500 in these provinces.

Given the prowess of the country’s public transportation, you can indeed get around any major city without owning a car. If you wish to get one, it will set you back by around $10,000. Small Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) cost around $25,000 and you can drive a pick up truck for around $60,000. You can also choose to lease a car with relatively lower monthly payments. At the end of the lease agreement you will either need to buy the car at a depreciated value or return the car to the dealer.

Housing Costs

Housing costs in Canada can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and the location. For instance, getting a place near the city centre would cost a lot more than in the suburbs.

For students, there are several options available, including dormitories, bachelor-style apartment, 1-bedroom apartment, 2-bedroom apartment, and shared apartments with a roommate. Dormitories are usually the most affordable option, with prices typically ranging from $500 to $800 per month. Shared apartments can range from $600 to $1200 per month, depending on the city and the number of roommates. For one person, a bachelor apartment can cost around $1,190 every month.

For families, the most common options are renting or buying a house or condominium. In major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, the average rent for 3-bedroom apartments is around $2500 to $3500 per month. In smaller cities, such as Halifax or Quebec City, the prices are generally lower, with rents ranging from $1500 to $2500 per month. Buying a house or condominium is a more significant investment, with prices ranging from $300,000 to over a million dollars, depending on the city. Read our guide for various accommodation options on offer in Canada.

In addition to the rent or mortgage payment, there are other expenses associated with housing. These can include electricity, water, heating, insurance, property taxes, and condo fees (if applicable). On average, monthly electricity costs for a family can range from $100 to $200, depending on the season and usage.

Overall, housing is likely to be one of the major expenses in Canada. The monthly costs can vary based on the type of accommodation, location, and space needed.

Food Prices & Grocery Expenses

Starting with an inexpensive restaurant, the average price of a meal in Canada would be around $15. Moving on to a mid-range restaurant with three courses for two people, the cost in Canada would be approximately $70, whereas in the US, it would be around $60.

As for fast food, a McMeal at McDonald’s or a similar deal in Canada would be priced at around $9. You can down local beer at around $6 and imported beer at approximately $7. For other drinks, a regular cappuccino in Canada costs around $3.50 and a bottle of water in Canada is around $1.75. Overall, while there are slight variations in prices, the average cost of food in both Canada and the US is relatively similar.

Home Internet

Depending upon your internet package and connectivity speed expect to shell out anywhere between $40 to $100 each month. Similarly, look for a basic smartphone plan to start with which can cost you around $40 per month for 2GB of data. More comprehensive plans can set you back by $120 per month or more.

Quality of Life & Median Income

Quality of life refers to the standard of living, opportunities, and satisfaction one experiences in their daily lives, while median income represents the middle point of all incomes in a specific population, separating the higher and lower income groups. Those having children should also account for the cost of childcare. Some provinces offer subsidized child care. 

Understanding the correlation between quality of life and median income is crucial in assessing the well-being of individuals and communities, as well as in creating strategies and policies to improve social and economic conditions for all.

Comparisons between Canadian Cities

Canadian cities present diverse economic opportunities tailored to individuals with varied skillsets and educational backgrounds. 

• Toronto, the nation’s largest city and economic hub, thrives in finance, technology, healthcare, and entertainment, appealing to highly educated professionals with international market access. This is among the more expensive cities to live in Canada.
• Calgary, a powerhouse in the energy sector, particularly oil, gas, and renewables, seeks individuals with technical expertise in engineering, geology, and project management.
• Vancouver focuses on creative industries like film, animation, and software development, attracting those with artistic talent and an entrepreneurial mindset.

Despite distinct offerings, each city promotes growth and development. It might be wise to understand the specific eligibility criteria, skills and prevalent industries for individuals seeking economic opportunities in Canada.

Single Person vs. Family Living Expenses

Families often need multiple bedrooms, a larger kitchen, and more communal areas, leading to higher rent or mortgage payments. On the other hand, single individuals can opt for smaller apartments or even shared living spaces, resulting in lower housing costs.

Food expenses also differ between a single person and a family. According to this study published in 2021 by academics in Canada, a family of two adults and two children, on an average, would spend $13,907 per year on food. That’s about $267 per week.

Overall, living expenses for families tend to be higher due to the larger housing requirements, increased food expenses, and transportation needs. Single individuals have the advantage of being able to live in smaller, more affordable spaces, purchase smaller quantities of groceries, and have lower transportation costs.

Cost of living for Students

The University of Toronto offers a nice breakup of estimated monthly living expenses for students who live on campus

• Housing – $1,100 to $2,700/month
• Food & grocery – $340+/month
• Public transportation – $0 to $128.15/month
• Electricity costs – $65+/month
• Clothing and shoes – $30 to $100/month
• Books and supplies – $500/semester
• Internet – $60 to $115/month
• Phone bill – $50 to $100/month
• Monthly entertainment and other expenses – $150/month
• Tenant’s insurance – $15 to $30/month
• Emergency funds and additional expenses – $500

Additional Considerations for Newcomers to Canada

Moving to a new country is not just a function of how much money you have in your pockets. You need to consider a whole lot more:

1. Cultural Adaptation: Moving to Canada means adapting to a new culture, traditions, and ways of life. It is essential for newcomers to be open-minded and willing to accept and learn from the various cultural norms they encounter.
2. Legal Requirements: Various legal requirements include obtaining the appropriate visa or permit, understanding the immigration process, and familiarizing oneself with Canadian laws and regulations.
3. Healthcare Access: Canada’s healthcare system, known as Medicare, provides essential medical services to its citizens and residents. Newcomers need to understand their options for accessing healthcare and obtain necessary health insurance coverage. Healthcare costs, thus, are subsidized.
4. Employment Prospects: Finding employment in a new country can be a significant concern for newcomers to Canada. Understanding the local job market, obtaining any required certifications or credentials, and networking within their field are crucial for increasing their chances of securing meaningful employment. Explore resources such as job boards, career centers and professional associations in addition to the conventional online portals.

Community Involvement: Engaging with local communities, joining social or cultural organizations, and volunteering are excellent ways to meet people, learn about Canadian society, and establish supportive networks. In fact, Canada is among the few countries that actively encourages volunteer work. It looks good on the CV too.

Job Opportunities and Wage Expectations

Some of the diverse career options include positions such as software engineer, marketing manager, financial analyst, graphic designer and registered nurse.

The average salary for these positions can vary significantly depending on multiple factors. For instance, an entry-level software engineer can expect an average annual salary of around $70,000, while a senior software engineer with several years of experience can earn well over $100,000 per year. Similarly, a marketing manager at the early stage of their career can anticipate an average salary of approximately $50,000, whereas an experienced marketing manager can command an average of $90,000 annually. Much like in any other country, experience level, education, and location determine how much you would make.

Lowest Cost Cities in Canada

Type of housing plays a crucial role in determining housing costs. Cities with a higher proportion of apartments and rental units often have lower average rent prices compared to cities dominated by single-family homes. Apartments are generally more affordable due to their smaller size and shared amenities.

Location is another significant factor influencing housing costs. Cities located in more remote or less desirable areas tend to have lower housing costs. These areas may have fewer employment opportunities, fewer amenities, and less demand for housing, leading to lower average rent prices.

For example, in cities like Thunder Bay, Ontario, and Moncton, New Brunswick, the average rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment range from $800 to $900 per month. The lower range of prices in these cities can be as low as $600 to $700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.