Canada is known for its high quality of life, but the cost of living varies significantly across provinces. While major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are expensive, several provinces offer more affordable living costs, including housing, transportation, and daily expenses. Here are the top 10 Canadian provinces with an affordable cost of living.
1. New Brunswick
New Brunswick is one of the most affordable provinces in Canada, offering low housing prices and a lower overall cost of living.
- Average Rent: $1,000–$1,500 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Among the lowest in Canada
- Affordable Cities: Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John
2. Newfoundland and Labrador
This province offers some of the lowest home prices in Canada, making it a great option for budget-conscious residents.
- Average Rent: $900–$1,400 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Very affordable compared to the national average
- Affordable Cities: St. John’s, Corner Brook, Gander
3. Prince Edward Island (PEI)
PEI provides an affordable cost of living along with a relaxed, small-town lifestyle.
- Average Rent: $1,000–$1,600 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Lower than the national average
- Affordable Cities: Charlottetown, Summerside
4. Manitoba
With affordable housing and a growing job market, Manitoba is a great choice for newcomers.
- Average Rent: $1,200–$1,800 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Lower than Ontario and British Columbia
- Affordable Cities: Winnipeg, Brandon
5. Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan has a low cost of living, with affordable rent and home prices compared to other provinces.
- Average Rent: $1,100–$1,700 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Significantly lower than major urban centers in Ontario and BC
- Affordable Cities: Regina, Saskatoon
6. Nova Scotia
Although housing prices have increased in recent years, Nova Scotia remains one of the most affordable provinces.
- Average Rent: $1,300–$1,900 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Lower than Ontario and BC
- Affordable Cities: Halifax, Sydney, Truro
7. Quebec
Quebec offers the lowest tuition fees in Canada and an overall affordable cost of living.
- Average Rent: $1,200–$1,900 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Cheaper than Ontario and British Columbia
- Affordable Cities: Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke
8. Alberta
Alberta has no provincial sales tax (PST), making it one of the most tax-friendly provinces in Canada.
- Average Rent: $1,400–$2,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: More affordable than Ontario and BC
- Affordable Cities: Edmonton, Lethbridge, Red Deer
9. British Columbia (Outside Vancouver)
While Vancouver is expensive, other areas in BC offer a more affordable cost of living.
- Average Rent: $1,500–$2,300 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Lower outside of Vancouver and Victoria
- Affordable Cities: Kelowna, Kamloops, Prince George
10. Ontario (Outside Toronto)
Ontario is known for its high cost of living, but smaller cities offer affordable options.
- Average Rent: $1,400–$2,200 for a 2-bedroom apartment
- Housing Prices: Lower in smaller cities compared to Toronto
- Affordable Cities: Windsor, Thunder Bay, Kingston
These provinces offer affordable housing, lower taxes, and lower living costs compared to major urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver