Canada is one of the most expensive countries in North America and as a result, many people are looking for ways to pay less for their housing costs. This article provides some tips on where to live in Canada without having to spend an outrageous amount of money.
Pros of Living in Canada
- Low Cost of Living:
Compared to other countries, the cost of living in Canada is relatively low. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto is only C$1,142, while the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is only C$1,448. Likewise, groceries and utilities are also relatively cheap in Canada. For example, the price of milk is only C$2.50 per container compared to $3 per container in the United States.
- Canada has a Wide Range of Weather Conditions:
Another benefit of living in Canada is that its weather conditions are a wide range. You can find year-round temperatures in most parts of the country and precipitation throughout the year. This means that you can enjoy outdoor activities all year long without having to worry about inclement weather conditions.
- The Quality of Life Is High:
One reason why many people choose to live in Canada is that its quality of life is high. The country has a strong economy and excellent infrastructure, making it a safe place to live as well as work. Additionally, crime rates are low and public health services are top-notch. This means that you will not have to sacrifice your quality of life when moving to Canada.
- Vast and Varied Landscape:
Canada is a huge country with a wide variety of landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies to the lush green forests of British Columbia. This diversity makes for a rich cultural experience, as well as endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and biking.
- Excellent Healthcare System:
Canada has one of the world’s best healthcare systems, with comprehensive coverage available to all residents. There are plenty of hospitals and clinics available both privately and government-run, so you can be assured that you will be able to access the care you need should anything go wrong.
Read also: Study and Work in Canada: Everything You Need to Know
Cons of Living in Canada
- Weather Can Be Tough:
Like many other parts of the world, Canada has both hot and cold weather. But even within a particular province or region, temperatures can vary widely. In some places, winters can be bitterly cold; in others, summers can be brutal.
- Language Barrier Can Be Annoying:
Although English is the official language in Canada, it’s not always spoken fluently by everyone. This can cause some frustration if you don’t know the language well enough to communicate with locals. Learning some basic Canadian terms can help ease this transition.
- There Isn’t Much Diversity In Cities Compared To Other Countries
Canada has a large population of people from British Columbia to Newfoundland and Labrador so cities can feel quite alike overall. If you’re looking for a more diverse environment, you may want to consider moving to another country instead.
Read also: A Complete Guide to Canada Permanent Residency
Cheap Places to Live in Canada
- Saskatoon
Saskatoon is the largest city in Saskatchewan and ranks fifth in population size in Canada. It’s also one of the most affordable cities to live in, with an average cost of $2,700 per month. That’s partly due to Saskatoon’s low wage rate – the lowest among all Canadian cities – as well as its relatively high cost of living index (less than half the Canadian average).
- Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg is another great city for those on a budget. The average cost of living here is only $24,000 per year, which means that you can easily save money each month without sacrificing your quality of life. Plus, Winnipeg has tons to offer its residents, including world-class healthcare and an abundance of cultural attractions.
- Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria is another great city for those on a budget. The average cost of living here is only $25,000 per year, which means that you can easily save money each month without sacrificing your quality of life. Also, Victoria has all the amenities that you could want and more – including incredible access to outdoor activities and world-class healthcare facilities.
Read also: List of Best Places to Live in Canada for Everyone
- Ottawa:
Ottawa is another affordable city that offers plenty to its residents. Median house prices here are just under $230,000, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable place to call home without breaking the bank. The city also has great amenities, such as high-quality schools and ample recreational opportunities.
- Quebec City:
Quebec City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, but it’s also one of the cheapest places to live. Median house prices in the city are just over $200,000, making it an ideal option for those looking for a low-cost place to call home while still having access to all that Quebec City has to offer.
- Fredericton, New Brunswick:
Fredericton is one of the most affordable cities in Canada and ranks highly for quality of life. The average cost of living is about $45,000 per year, which is about half of the national average. There are several affordable housing options available, including apartments and houses.
- Winnipeg, Manitoba:
Winnipeg is another great city for budget living. Many people living in Winnipeg commute to Toronto or Vancouver, so they can afford to live relatively cheaply. One-bedroom apartments start at just $150 a month, and two-bedroom apartments can be had for only $250 a month. There is a lot of job opportunity available in Winnipeg, so you won’t have trouble finding employment that pays well enough to cover your rent.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does rent vary from city to city in Canada?
A: The price of rent also varies from city to city in Canada. In Halifax, for example, rent costs on an annual basis averaged out at $1,408. In Charlottetown however, rent averages out at only $835 per year.
Q: What about mortgage rates?
A: Mortgage rates also vary from city to city in Canada. For example, Mortgage Rates in Toronto as of May 2019 were averaging around 2%. However, rates can be significantly higher or lower depending on the specific location you’re looking into.