Considering moving to one of the most affordable cities in Canada? You’re not alone with this thought. Canada is popular for its natural landscapes and high quality of life, but living in some major cities can also be expensive. According to a recent survey by Royal LePage, half of Canadians living in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver tend to buy housing in one of the cheapest places to live in Canada, and 60% of renters would consider relocating. To help you move on this thought, we’ve compiled the top 20 cheapest cities to live in Canada in this article. Read on to find a place for you.
What Contribute to Cheapest Place to Live in Canada?
How to determine the most affordable places to live in Canada? It is far more about just a price tag for rent or buying a house, but requires a comprehensive evaluation from a wide range of aspects. Here are some key factors that we should at least take into consideration when choosing the cheapest city to live in Canada:
- Housing Cost: Housing cost is not the only consideration, but still a major one. Check the median house price and the average rent of an apartment are the priorities.
- Potential Income: House prices might be low in some small cities, but it won’t be livable if the potential earnings are lower. Ideally, the cost of housing is 30% of your income.
- Other Cost of Living: Apart from housing, the cost for daily items such as groceries, dining, transportation, also takes a large part of the affordability.
- Life Quality: Beyond daily expenses, you also need to spend on entertainment options, education, healthcare, and more to ensure the quality of life and gain well-being and felicity.
- Taxes: According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), the tax rate in 2024 still varied significantly both within and between provinces. Consider the taxes you will pay in the city also become significant.
Top 20 Most Affordable Cities in Canada
As stated, a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as housing costs, potential income and job opportunities, everyday expenses, quality of life, and taxes is essential when choosing the cheapest place in Canada to live in. Additionally, factors such as climate, safety, local community, and amenities should be considered before making a move. Check out the listed overview of the cheapest cities to live in Canada below before getting into more details:
| City | Average Rent (CAD) | Average Housing Price (CAD) | Average Household Income (CAD) | Employment Opportunities | Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quebec City, QC | 12000 | 336500 | 50000 | Moderate | Low |
| Thunder Bay, ON | 15000 | 300000 | 50000 | Low | High |
| Moncton, NB | 10500 | 326700 | 45000 | Moderate | Low |
| Edmonton, AB | 17400 | 375000 | 65000 | High | Medium |
| St. John’s, NL | 13200 | 320000 | 52000 | Moderate | Low |
| Winnipeg, MB | 14400 | 330000 | 55000 | Moderate | High |
| Trois-Rivières, QC | 11400 | 315000 | 46000 | Low | Low |
| Fredericton, NB | 12500 | 280000 | 47000 | Moderate | Low |
| Halifax, NS | 15000 | 500000 | 57000 | High | Low |
| Saskatoon, SK | 16800 | 370000 | 62000 | High | Medium |
| Regina, SK | 17000 | 320000 | 63000 | High | Medium |
| Charlottetown, PE | 12000 | 350000 | 48000 | Moderate | Low |
| London, ON | 16200 | 570500 | 60000 | High | Medium |
| Owen Sound, ON | 14000 | 550000 | 49000 | Low | Low |
| Barrie, ON | 18000 | 700000 | 60000 | Moderate | Low |
| Airdrie, AB | 18000 | 450000 | 62000 | High | Low |
| Kelowna, BC | 20000 | 800000 | 70000 | High | Medium |
| Cornwall, ON | 14000 | 350000 | 47000 | Moderate | Low |
| Chatham-Kent, ON | 10000 | 400000 | 44000 | Moderate | Low |
| Brandon, MB | 11000 | 300000 | 46000 | Moderate | Medium |
1. Quebec City, Quebec
- Average rent: $12,000
- Cost of living:$33,000
- Average Income: $50,000
Quebec City is recognised as the cheapest place to live in Canada for its low house prices and cost of living, yet a relatively high average household income and quality of life. As the capital city of Quebec, it offers a rich history, unique architecture, stunning natural scenery, vibrant culture, and even boasts its own UNESCO World Heritage Site: Old Quebec, the most intact fortified town north of Mexico.
2. Thunder Bay, Ontario
- Average rent: $15,000
- Cost of living: $36,000
- Average Income:$50,000
Thunder Bay tops many lists for its low housing prices and mortgage costs, widely recognized as one of the cheapest city to live in Canada. The city is located on Lake Superior, offering panoramic views like Kakabeka Falls (the Niagara of the North) and rich history as a port city and railroad hub. However, it is worth noticing that the city also has a higher-than-average crime rate and a tough winter due to its remote location.
3. Moncton, New Brunswick
- Average rent:$10,500
- Cost of living: $32,000
- Average Income: $45,000
Moncton is often mentioned for its affordability, especially for owning some of the cheapest homes in Canada, with an average apartment rent of $10,500 per year. With a prime location in the heart of the Maritimes and well-connected via highway, train, and air, Moncton is a ‘Hub City’ and perfectly blends the waterside and urban charm.
4. Edmonton, Alberta
- Average rent: $17,400
- Cost of living: $39,000
- Average Income: $65,000
While not as affordable as other cheap places in Canada, Edmonton stands out for its high income and urban amenities. It is a large city with great schools, healthcare institutions, shopping malls, a convenient public transport network, and even an international airport. Compared to other major cities, Edmonton is without doubt one of the most affordable cities in Canada.
5. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Average rent: $13,200
- Cost of living: $34,500
- Average Income: $52,000
St. John’s is the capital and largest city of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as one of the least expensive places to live in Canada. The city is attractive not only for its low cost of living, but also for its relatively high income compared to other affordable cities. As the oldest and most easterly city in North America, St. John’s also offers large-city amenities and a distinct Newfoundland flavour.
6. Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Average rent: $14,400
- Cost of living: $36,000
- Average Income: $55,000
Winnipeg, the capital and largest city of Manitoba, stands as one of the most affordable cities in Canada. Although affordable, your life can be vibrant in this prairie city. Known as the ‘culture cradle of Canada’, the city is home to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and a host for numerous festivals, fostering its unique identity and culture.
7. Trois-Rivières, Quebec
- Average rent: $11,400
- Cost of living: $32,500
- Average Income: $46,000
Another cheap place to live in Quebec is Trois-Rivières, the second-oldest French-speaking city in North America. Situated on the St. Lawrence and Saint-Maurice rivers, it is the economic and cultural hub of the Mauricie region, offering a variety of festivals and events, museums and galleries, and also the ‘Capital of Poetry’.
8. Fredericton, New Brunswick
- Average rent: $12,500
- Cost of living: $33,500
- Average Income: $47,000
Fredericton, the capital city of the Canadian province of New Brunswick, is often listed as a cheap city to live in due to its low cost of living. The city is also known as the provincial hub for arts and culture with the Fredericton Taproom Trail and entertainment options on the Saint John River, making it a popular spot for summer months.
9. Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Average rent: $15,000
- Cost of living: $37,500
- Average Income: $57,000
Halifax is one of the cheapest places in Canada to live for students, with low tuition fees and a low cost of living. Enjoying a strategic location on one of the largest and deepest ice-free natural harbours, Halifax plays as a key economic and cultural centre for Atlantic Canada. It is home to the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in North America, and stunning natural scenery such as the beautiful Halifax Waterfront, unique attractions like Citadel National Historic Site, and delicious seafood.
10. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- Average rent: $16,800
- Cost of living: $40,500
- Average Income: $62,000
Saskatoon is also a cheap city in Canada for students for its budget-friendly atmosphere and as home to the University of Saskatchewan. As the largest city in Saskatchewan, it is a flat area stretching from the South Saskatchewan River into the South Saskatchewan River Valley, bringing plenty of natural beauty and riverfront parks.
11. Regina, Saskatchewan
- Average rent: $17,000
- Cost of living: $41,000
- Average Income: $63,000
Another affordable city in Saskatchewan, Regina, is the capital city and the second-largest city of this Canadian province. Regina is a nice place for sports fans as the home of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, a Canadian Football League team. In addition, it is also a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) heritage that showcases its long and proud traditions.
12. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
- Average rent: $12,000
- Cost of living: $35,000
- Average Income: $48,000
Charlottetown is a small city and also an affordable one as its cost of living and housing costs are among the lowest in Canada. The city sits on the southern coast of PEI, always known as a seaside city with a historical hub of culture, festivals, artisan shops, and top restaurants. It is also well-connected to the rest of PEI with a short drive to beaches, villages, and family attractions.
13. London, Ontario
- Average rent: $16,200
- Cost of living: $38,000
- Average Income: $60,000
London is a city in southwestern Ontario and is midway between Windsor and Toronto. Situated on the Thames River and between Lake Huron and Lake Erie, the city is known as the ‘Forest City’ for its over four million trees, green space, and parks. London offers big city amenities with small-town charm, perfect for people looking for the urban lifestyle with an affordable cost of living.
14. Owen Sound, Ontario
- Average rent: $14,000
- Cost of living: $34,500
- Average Income: $49,000
Located on the southern shore of Georgian Bay in a valley below the limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment, the beautiful city of Owen Sound features a historic downtown, extensive parks, winding rivers, an expansive harbour and bay. It was also named ‘Cultural Capital of Canada’ once, for being home to diverse festivals and events like the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival.
15. Barrie, Ontario
- Average rent: $18,000
- Cost of living: $40,000
- Average Income: $60,000
Barrie, Ontario, is a popular destination for new immigrants and those relocating from Toronto, offering a lower cost of living and more affordable housing. This beautiful waterfront city is situated on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, the western side of Lake Simcoe, and is approximately 1 hour from Toronto.
16. Airdrie, Alberta
- Average rent: $18,000
- Cost of living: $41,000
- Average Income: $62,000
Airdrie is unique for being the highest city in Canada for its elevation, as well as a railway town with ‘all roads lead to the station’. This city is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere and peaceful lifestyle, together with excellent schools and recreational spaces like Nose Creek Park and Genesis Place. The apartment rent, utilities, and daily costs are more affordable than in many cities, making it also one of the affordable cities in Canada.
17. Kelowna, British Columbia
- Average rent: $20,000
- Cost of living: $45,000
- Average Income: $70,000
Kelowna, BC, is pricier than the national average but more affordable compared to major Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto. Located close to Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is a popular tourist destination with numerous attractions, including over 20 local vineyards, golf courses, outdoor recreation, and cultural venues.
18. Cornwall, Ontario
- Average rent: $14,000
- Cost of living: $33,000
- Average Income: $47,000
Cornwall is also one of the cheapest places to live in Canada with low housing prices and cost of living in everyday life. The location of Cornwall is unique, situated at the convergence of the Ontario, Quebec and New York State borders. Well-connected by road and railways, together with numerous parks and recreational facilities, Cornwall is a good place to relocate or raise a family.
19. Chatham-Kent, Ontario
- Average rent: $10,000
- Cost of living:$30,500
- Average Income: $44,000
Another cheap place to live in Ontario, Canada is Chatham-Kent, which enjoys a high quality of life with low housing prices. The city boasts 3 provincial parks, 10 public access spots to beaches, and 235 km of water trails, offering endless places to connect with family and friends. What’s more, it also enjoys easy access to the Greater Toronto Area and the USA.
20. Brandon, Manitoba
- Average rent:$11,000
- Cost of living: $31,500
- Average Income: $46,000
The last on our list of most affordable places to live in Canada is Brandon, the second-largest city in the province of Manitoba, Canada. With a stable housing market, high quality of life, expansive parks, and a small-town community, Brandon makes a good place to move in.
Key Takeaways on Most Affordable Cities in Canada
There are some highlights that you might have also noticed after checking the top 20 cheapest places to live in Canada:
- Ontario leads in affordability: Ontario might be the cheapest province to live in Canada, with several of the most affordable cities, including London, Owen Sound, Thunder Bay, and Cornwall, offering a wide range of options with different features and lifestyles.
- Significantly low housing cost: Most of the listed affordable cities boast a competitive housing market that is much lower than the national average level, leading to a lot of savings on housing costs.
- A holistic view is needed: Apart from cost, it is equally important to consider your potential income and the quality of life you will enjoy (concerning local amenities, culture, transport, safety, etc.). Some cities might save you a large amount of cost, but come with a higher crime rate or poor resources.
Where uhomes.com Can Help?
The first thing you should do after deciding on your new place to live is find the ideal housing. uhomes.com comes as a professional rental platform, offering a wide range of housing options in Canada, including both major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and other affordable cities like Halifax, and London. Whether you’re an incoming student or a working professional, we’ve got you covered with plenty of room types to suit diverse lifestyles and budgets.
Conclusion
Relocating is never an easy decision to make in a rush. Before moving to one of the most affordable cities in Canada, it is essential to be aware of what to expect, such as low housing prices. Better natural environment? Job opportunities? Consider these factors again before starting your next step.
FAQ
Where is the cheapest place to live in Canada?
The cheapest place to live in Canada is Chatham-Kent, ON. The average rent is just 10,000 CAD, and the average housing price is 400,000 CAD, making it the most affordable city on the list. Additionally, its moderate household income of 44,000 CAD keeps the overall cost of living lower compared to other cities.
Which city in Canada has the lowest cost of living?
The city in Canada with the lowest cost of living is often considered to be Moncton in New Brunswick. It has affordable housing, lower transportation costs, and a relatively low overall cost of goods and services compared to larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
Where is the most affordable housing in Canada?
The most affordable housing in Canada is generally found in smaller cities and towns, such as Moncton (New Brunswick), Thunder Bay (Ontario), and Saint John (New Brunswick). These areas offer lower real estate prices compared to major metropolitan centers like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal.
What are the top 10 most affordable cities in Canada?
The top 10 most affordable cities in Canada are typically Quebec City, Moncton, Trois-Rivières, Fredericton, and others. These cities offer a combination of low average rent, affordable housing prices, and moderate household incomes. Based on various factors such as cost of living, here are the top 10 most affordable cities:
- Moncton, NB
- Trois-Rivières, QC
- Quebec City, QC
- Fredericton, NB
- St. John’s, NL
- Charlottetown, PE
- Brandon, MB
- Thunder Bay, ON
- Cornwall, ON
- Chatham-Kent, ON
Where in Canada is the cheapest rent?
The cheapest rent in Canada can be found in cities like Moncton (New Brunswick), Thunder Bay (Ontario), Saskatoon (Saskatchewan), Regina (Saskatchewan), and Fredericton (New Brunswick). These areas typically have lower rental prices compared to larger urban centers such as Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal.
What is the most affordable city in Canada with the cheapest taxes?
The most affordable city in Canada with the cheapest taxes is Quebec City, QC. According to several authoritative sources, Quebec City offers relatively lower property taxes compared to other major cities in Canada. Additionally, its overall cost of living is also lower due to affordable housing prices and moderate rent, making it a great choice for those looking for both affordability and lower taxes.
Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Canada?
It is generally cheaper to rent than buy in Canada. According to a 2023 report by Zolo.ca, the average cost of renting a home in Canada is significantly lower than the average monthly mortgage payment. In cities like Toronto, while renting costs around 2,500 CAD per month, the monthly mortgage payment can exceed 3,500 CAD, making renting the more affordable option in many areas.
Are affordable cities in Canada safe and family-friendly?
Affordable cities in Canada are often safe and family-friendly. According to a 2022 report by The Globe and Mail, many affordable cities, such as Quebec City and Fredericton, offer lower crime rates and a high quality of life for families. These cities typically have good schools, parks, and healthcare systems, making them ideal for families seeking an affordable yet safe environment.
Is it cheaper to live in Canada than the US?
It is generally cheaper to live in Canada than in the US. According to a 2023 comparison by Numbeo, the cost of living in Canada is approximately 10-15% lower than in the United States. For instance, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Canada is about 1,300 CAD, while in the US, it is around 2,200 USD. Additionally, healthcare costs in Canada are far lower, as Canadian citizens pay an average of 0-100 CAD per month for provincial healthcare, whereas in the US, health insurance premiums can exceed 500 USD per month.
What is the most unaffordable city in Canada?
The most unaffordable city in Canada is Vancouver, BC. According to a 2023 report by Zolo.ca, the average home price in Vancouver is around 1.1 million CAD, making it the most expensive city in the country. Additionally, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver’s city center is about 2,500 CAD per month, which is significantly higher than in other Canadian cities.
