Cost of Living in Canada

Canada is consistently stated as “One of the best places to live in the world” in the United Nations annual report. In general, 35 to 50 percent of income is spent on housing and utilities.

Housing in Canada is cheap, considering it is one of the largest nations in the world. The affordability is one of the major attractions of the country. Prices vary depending on the location, age and condition of the property, and the local housing market.

Typical housing in rural and suburban areas is single detached homes. Houses are mostly made of wood. Apartments are popular in urban areas. The federal government provides assistance to low and mid-income families with finding cost-effective housing.

Outside the cities, renting a room costs from $350 to $2000 monthly.

Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary are the most expensive cities in Canada. If you are considering moving to Vancouver, budget wisely as the housing market is the most expensive in Canada. Most residents opt to rent, as this is more affordable; a typical two-bedroom home costs approximately C$ 12,950 - 1495.

Depending on your housing arrangements, you need to budget for utility expenses. Considering the weather in Canada, homes are heated by natural gas, oil or electricity. The household heating is approximately $142 per month. The cost of a monthly internet connection is approximately C$40 – 60 monthly.

Food Consumption

Canada is popular for its maple syrup and by-products (note that the maple leaf is on the country flag).
 The third top in grain exportation, Canadian locally produces grains such as wheat, barley, corn, and oats. Livestock is exported by Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

Dining in Canada is cheap. Adding sales tax is common in Canada. In general, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is 5% added to the price of goods and services. Provincial Sales Tax (PST) ranges from 7% to 10% in most provinces except Alberta, Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and the Yukon.

Transportation

An average Canadian family has at least one car. Owning a car and buying petrol is reasonable in Canada but car insurance is expensive.

Clothing

Depending on your lifestyle, 10 percent or less of your monthly income can be spent on clothes. You obviously pay more for designer clothing.

Medical Expenses

The healthcare system is publicly funded from taxes, and coverage will depend on the province or territory you live in. Dental and eye care are not covered.

Average healthcare expenses range from $150 per month.

Service Costs

Canada is one of the leading nations in the world, not only for economic reasons but for social groups and programs provided to its citizens and residents.

High importance is given to education. Children between the ages of six and sixteen are mandated to attend school. Primary and secondary schooling is free through the government funded education system.

For low-income families, equalisation rights (income redistribution) and adjusted taxation rates are provided. Citizens need to submit sufficient evidence of their earnings.