Cheapest Cities in Canada

Latest Update: Quebec City has just been named Canada’s most affordable student city by the 2025 MovingWaldo report! With an average annual cost of living around CAD 33,000, it’s the perfect blend of quality education, rich culture, and budget-friendly living.

Canada’s iconic cities—Toronto and Vancouver—remain magnets for global talent, yet soaring expenses and the rising cost of living in Canada are becoming unsustainable for many.In February 2025, the average national rent dropped to CAD 2,088 (~₹132,600)—an 18-month low, but still 16.9% above pre-pandemic levels 

Meanwhile, the government has capped new international study permits at 437,000 for 2025, down from over 650,000 in 2023, aiming to ease housing and healthcare strain. Yet opportunities persist—1,040,985 international students, a 29% rise from last year, are still choosing to study in Canada.

Yet opportunities persist—1,040,985 international students, a 29% rise from last year, are still choosing to study in Canada.

Fortunately, Canada’s cheapest cities in Canada—such as Sherbrooke, Trois‑Rivières, and Moncton—offer a viable alternative: total monthly costs (rent + living) from CAD 1,100–1,400 (~₹69,800–88,900). 

These cities combine affordability with access to quality education, stable healthcare, and vibrant community life—ideal for students, newcomers, and anyone seeking affordable accommodation in Canada without paying metro-level prices.

To know more about where to live, how much it costs, what to expect, and how to prepare, read on. This guide will walk you through everything you need to make an informed move.

Cheapest Cities in Canada – Overview

Canada’s small—to mid-sized cities offer substantial rent, food, and service savings, yet still deliver strong healthcare, education, and employment. Affordable living starts with smart choices in cities where quality and value coexist.

• National data shows a single adult in Canada spends about CAD 1,458/month (INR 92,448) on non-rent essentials—food, utilities, transport—before housing.
• In cities like Sherbrooke and Trois‑Rivières, those costs drop to CAD 630–721/month (INR 39,355–45,741), almost 50% cheaper.
• Big city rents alone often eclipse CAD 1,200 (INR 76,104) for a one-bedroom, but affordable cities keep total monthly expenses under CAD 1,400 (INR 88,788), saving you close to CAD 600+ (INR 38,052+) each month.

You won’t be sacrificing on essentials: all offer strong healthcare access, modern transit, public education, and vibrant community events.

These savings make a real difference—whether you’re looking to study abroad, raise a family, or simply live comfortably on a tighter budget.

Top 10 Cheapest Cities in Canada

If you want to live in Canada without spending too much, these 10 cities are great options. They have lower costs for things like rent, food, and transport, while still offering good jobs, schools, and healthcare. Whether you're a student or moving with family, these places help you live well on a budget.

Let’s get into the details of each city—what they offer, what to expect, and why they stand out as affordable yet livable choices.

1. Quebec City, Quebec

A culturally rich and historically beautiful city, Quebec City offers one of the lowest costs of living in Canada, ideal for French-speaking students and families looking for affordable urban life.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	33,000	INR 20,92986
Housing (Rent)	12,000	INR 7,61040
Food & Meals	4,800	INR 3,04416
Transport	1,200	INR 76104
Average Income	50,000	INR 31,71000

Why It’s Affordable?

• Rent and public services are significantly lower than in major cities.
• Offers government-subsidized education and healthcare.
• Well-connected yet compact, cutting down on commute costs.

Best For:
✅ French-speaking international students
✅ Families looking to settle affordably in a cultural hub

2. Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton is an underrated gem in Atlantic Canada, offering low rent, friendly communities, and an increasing number of career opportunities, especially in bilingual services.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	32,000	INR 20,29344
Housing (Rent)	10,500	INR 6,65805
Food & Meals	4,000	INR 2,53680
Transport	1,000	INR 63420
Average Income	45,000	INR 28,53900

Why It’s Affordable?

• Among the lowest rental costs in Canada.
• Low cost of groceries and public services.
• Lower sales and property taxes.

Best For:
✅ Budget-conscious newcomers
✅ Students looking for peaceful and affordable environments
✅ Bilingual professionals

3. St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador

As one of Canada’s most scenic coastal cities, St. John’s offers ocean views, a tight-knit community, and one of the lowest tuition fees in the country.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	34,500	INR 21,89589
Housing (Rent)	13,200	INR 8,37384
Food & Meals	4,200	INR 2,66436
Transport	1,200	INR 76104
Average Income	52,000	INR 32,18160

Why It’s Affordable?

• Memorial University offers some of the lowest tuition fees in North America.
• Rent is affordable, and utilities are subsidized.
• Public transport is affordable and efficient for students.

Best For:
✅ International students looking for affordable education
✅ Remote workers
✅ People looking to escape urban stress

4. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg combines affordability with big-city advantages, offering a low cost of living, ample job opportunities, and one of the strongest arts and culture scenes in Canada.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	36,000	INR 22,83120
Housing (Rent)	14,400	INR 9,13168
Food & Meals	4,500	INR 2,85390
Transport	1,400	INR 88800
Average Income	55,000	INR 34,88100

Why It’s Affordable?

• Rent and housing prices are below the national average.
• Utility costs are manageable, especially with Manitoba Hydro rebates.
• Provincial nominee programs attract skilled immigrants.

Best For:
✅ Skilled workers and tradespeople
✅ Immigrants looking for PR pathways
✅ Students of UWinnipeg or the University of Manitoba

5. Halifax, Nova Scotia

A beautiful port city on Canada’s east coast, Halifax offers a perfect balance between city life and ocean living, at a cost that’s still lower than most major Canadian cities.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	37,500	INR 23,77500
Housing (Rent)	15,000	INR 9,51300
Food & Meals	4,800	INR 3,04416
Transport	1,500	INR 95130
Average Income	57,000	INR 36,22140

Why It’s Affordable?

• Shared student housing and utilities are budget-friendly.
• Lower living costs than Toronto, Vancouver, or Ottawa.
• Strong provincial immigration support programs.

Best For:
✅ Students looking for a vibrant city with lower costs
✅ Professionals in education, healthcare, or tech
✅ Families wanting oceanfront living at a manageable price

6. London, Ontario (H3)

A dynamic city located close to Toronto, London combines quality education, green living, and affordability, making it ideal for students and immigrants seeking balance.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	38,000	INR 24,09960
Housing (Rent)	16,200	INR 10,27204
Food & Meals	5,000	INR 3,17100
Transport	1,600	INR 1,01472
Average Income	60,000	INR 38,05200

Why It’s Affordable?

• Rent is significantly lower than in nearby cities like Toronto or Mississauga.
• Public transportation is cheaper and efficient for students (London Transit).
• Shared housing is widely available near Western University and Fanshawe College.

Best For:
✅ Students looking for quality education without Toronto’s high cost
✅ Families wanting suburban life with city benefits
✅ Professionals in tech, education, or healthcare sectors

7. Edmonton, Alberta

As Alberta’s capital, Edmonton offers a strong job market, no provincial sales tax, and affordable living, making it ideal for families and skilled workers looking to settle.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	39,000	INR 24,73380
Housing (Rent)	17,400	INR 11,03628
Food & Meals	5,200	INR 3,29904
Transport	1,700	INR 1,07814
Average Income	65,000	INR 41,07150

Why It’s Affordable?

• No PST (provincial sales tax) keeps prices down.
• Abundant housing options in suburban and central zones.
• Heating and utilities are subsidized during colder months.

Best For:
✅ Skilled immigrants and tradespeople
✅ Students of science, engineering, and healthcare
✅ Families seeking stability and high wages

8. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon combines small-city charm with economic opportunity. Its low housing prices and growing job sectors make it ideal for newcomers and budget-conscious students.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	40,500	INR 25,66410
Housing (Rent)	16,800	INR 10,64856
Food & Meals	5,300	INR 3,36222
Transport	1,800	INR 1,14156
Average Income	62,000	INR 39,49560

Why It’s Affordable?

• Housing and utility costs are some of the lowest in Canada.
• Affordable childcare and schooling make it family-friendly.
• Strong support for international students at the University of Saskatchewan.

Best For:
✅ International students in science or agriculture
✅ New immigrants seeking long-term PR
✅ Families looking for affordable, peaceful living

9. Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, boasts affordable housing, manageable living costs, and growing economic sectors, making it ideal for people looking to settle long-term.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	41,000	INR 25,98180
Housing (Rent)	17,000	INR 10,78140
Food & Meals	5,400	INR 3,42618
Transport	1,900	INR 1,20558
Average Income	63,000	INR 39,94020

Why It’s Affordable?

• Rental costs remain stable even during inflation.
• Car ownership is common and more affordable due to low insurance rates.
• Lower tuition fees at the University of Regina for international students.

Best For:
✅ Budget-conscious families and PR seekers
✅ Students looking for community and affordability
✅ Professionals in government or utilities

10. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

A picturesque coastal city, Charlottetown offers peace, affordability, and charm. Its small size and tight community make it an excellent place to study and settle.

Category	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Yearly Expenses	35,000	INR 22,54170
Housing (Rent)	12,000	INR 7,61040
Food & Meals	4,300	INR 2,72206
Transport	1,100	INR 69762
Average Income	48,000	INR 30,44160

Why It’s Affordable?

• Rent and food costs are consistently lower than in mainland provinces.
• Subsidized provincial healthcare and schooling.
• Public transportation discounts are available for students.

Best For:
✅ Students seeking calm and nature-driven education
✅ Retirees or families wanting quiet island life
✅ Newcomers preferring a tight-knit, friendly community

While major cities like Toronto and Vancouver dominate headlines, these ten affordable Canadian cities prove you don’t have to compromise on quality of life, career opportunities, or education to live within your budget, whether you're a student or planning a permanent move.

What Makes a City ‘Affordable’?

Real affordability is multi-dimensional—it isn’t just rent. It includes food, taxes, wages, and public services. Here's how these cities measure up.

• Housing: Largest monthly expense—Quebec’s rent control & smaller markets reduce volatility.
• Food & Utilities: Average groceries CAD 350–538 (INR 22k–34k); utilities CAD 42–150 (INR 2.7k–9.5k)
• Transport: Monthly passes CAD 46–100 (INR 2.9k–6.3k), often with university/student discounts
• Taxes & Subsidies: Quebec’s childcare/tuition support, Alberta’s tax break, lower property taxes in Atlantic regions
• Income Balance: Trois‑Rivières residents typically net CAD 2,231/month (INR 1.41 L), covering nearly two months' expenses

Cost Comparison in the Cheapest Cities in Canada

Living costs can be very different depending on which city you choose in Canada. Some places have lower rent, cheaper food, and affordable transport, making it easier to manage your monthly expenses. 

Here’s a glimpse of 10 affordable Canadian cities where you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without overspending. From housing to food and transport, these cities offer a balanced cost of living paired with decent income opportunities.

City	Housing (Rent)	Food & Meals	Transport	Average Income (CAD)
Quebec City, QB	$12,000 (INR 7,61040)	$4,800 (INR 3,04416)	$1,200 (INR 76104)	$50,000 (INR 31,71000)
Moncton, NB	$10,500 (INR 6,65810)	$4,000 (INR 2,53680)	$1,000 (INR 63420)	$45,000 (INR 28,53900)
St. John’s, NL	$13,200 (INR 8,37144)	$4,200 (INR 2,66464)	$1,200 (INR 76104)	$52,000 (INR 32,97840)
Winnipeg, MB	$14,400 (INR 9,12960)	$4,500 (INR 2,85390)	$1,400 (INR 88788)	$55,000 (INR 34,88100)
Halifax, NS	$15,000 (INR 9,51300)	$4,800 (INR 3,04416)	$1,500 (INR 95130)	$57,000 (INR 36,14940)
London, ON	$16,200 (INR 10,27644)	$5,000 (INR 3,17100)	$1,600 (INR 101472)	$60,000 (INR 38,05200)
Edmonton, AB	$17,400 (INR 11,03988)	$5,200 (INR 3,29784)	$1,700 (INR 107814)	$65,000 (INR 41,22300)
Saskatoon, SK	$16,800 (INR 10,65456)	$5,300 (INR 3,36126)	$1,800 (INR 114156)	$62,000 (INR 39,92040)
Regina, SK	$17,000 (INR 10,78140)	$5,400 (INR 3,42468)	$1,900 (INR 120498)	$63,000 (INR 40,55460)
Charlottetown, PE	$12,000 (INR 7,61040)	$4,300 (INR 2,72706)	$1,100 (INR 69762)	$48,000 (INR 30,07680)

These numbers show how each city offers its own mix of costs and income. Now, let’s take a closer look at what life is really like in these cities, so you can choose the one that suits your needs best.

Affordable Housing Options in Budget-Friendly Cities

Canada’s cheapest cities offer diverse rental options—from co-ops and basement suites to student dorms and subsidized units. Government-backed programs like Logis-Québec, NB Affordable Housing Strategy, and Manitoba Housing help ease rent costs for students, immigrants, and low-income families. 

These supports make settling into Canadian life more manageable without metro-level price tags.

• Quebec City, QC: Offers a variety of rental options—from historic apartments in Old Quebec to modern units near Laval University. Many landlords accept all-inclusive leases (heat, hot water, Wi-Fi), ideal for newcomers. Student co-ops are also common.
• Moncton, NB: Vacancy rates of 5–6% mean a good choice and negotiating power. Shared housing options are abundant around Université de Moncton. Rent-controlled units are common, especially in older neighbourhoods.
• St. John’s, NL: With a steady supply of single-family homes and duplexes, students and families find lower rent compared to Atlantic peers. The province offers rent supplement programs for eligible low-income households.
• Winnipeg, MB: Known for duplexes and townhouses, Winnipeg also features co-operative housing initiatives and transitional housing for newcomers. Certain city zones cap rent increases, and student-friendly basement apartments are popular.
• Halifax, NS: Some areas are pricey, but Dartmouth and Clayton Park offer more affordable rental pockets. Student housing near Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s is often shared among international students.

These housing options and support programs make it easier for students, newcomers, and families to find a comfortable place to live without spending too much.

👉 Confused about where to live in Canada? Compare dorms, shared apartments, and housing costs now. Read this: Accommodation in Canada: Rent and Housing Cities 2025 for Students & Newcomers to make the smartest choice for your budget.

Education and Student Life in Cheaper Cities

Studying in smaller Canadian cities doesn’t mean missing out. These places offer quality education at lower tuition rates, strong scholarship support, and lively student life. 

With bilingual programs, part-time work options, and inclusive campus communities, students get both academic value and personal growth.

• Quebec City, QC: Home to Université Laval and English colleges like St. Lawrence, Quebec City provides French-English bilingual education and provincial tuition subsidies for permanent residents and international students alike.
• Moncton, NB: Université de Moncton and Crandall University offer generous entrance scholarships. The bilingual environment helps students gain dual-language proficiency, with plentiful part-time jobs in hospitality and retail.
• St. John’s, NL: Memorial University offers some of the lowest tuition fees in Canada. Active student societies, on-campus jobs, and diverse clubs support student engagement and personal development.
• Winnipeg, MB: The University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg offer well-funded co-op programs and scholarships. Cultural centres and student lounges foster a welcoming environment for international students.
• Halifax, NS: With six postsecondary institutions, Halifax boasts an unmatched student scene in Atlantic Canada. Opportunities for research, community involvement, and coastal recreation are plenty.

From affordable tuition and scholarships to campus jobs and active student communities, these cities offer great opportunities for students to learn, work, and grow, without the high cost of big-city living.

Job Opportunities in the Cheapest Cities in Canada

Affordable cities in Canada also offer good job options across different industries. From call centres and education to tech, public service, and skilled trades, these places support newcomers and students looking for stable work and career growth.

• Moncton, NB: Boasts over 5,000 call centre roles, with growth in logistics, warehousing, and financial services. Newcomer-focused job fairs help integrate immigrants quickly into the workforce.
• Winnipeg, MB: Major employers include Canada Life, Manitoba Hydro, and Boeing. The city supports vocational training for manufacturing, IT, and trades.
• St. John’s, NL: Marine research, oil, and public sector roles dominate. Memorial University graduates often find research or education roles locally.
• Edmonton, AB: Oilfield services, aerospace firms, and tech companies hire continuously. Alberta’s no-PST policy attracts small business growth, creating admin and operations jobs.
• Saskatoon, SK: Strong in agriculture tech, research, mining, and food sciences. Co-op placements through the University of Saskatchewan often lead to full-time jobs.

Whether you're a student, immigrant, or skilled worker, these cities provide steady job markets with room to grow, making them a smart choice for both affordability and employment.

👉 Looking to work while you study—or planning to stay after graduation? Discover the top hiring cities and job trends for Indians in Canada in 2025.

Public Services & Transport in the Cheapest Cities in Canada

Cheapest cities in Canada offer dependable public transport, good healthcare access, and community support programs—all at lower costs than major cities, making daily life easier for students and newcomers.

Public Transit

• Quebec City: C$95 (₹6,000); well-connected RTC buses, with integrated student discounts.
• Moncton: C$60–80 (₹3,800–5,100); Codiac Transpo offers reliable service and bike racks.
• St. John’s: C$78 (~₹4,900); Metrobus system covers student-heavy areas.
• Winnipeg: C$90 (₹5,700); Peggo cards simplify transit use, and student U-Passes save money.
• Halifax: C$82 (~₹5,200); ferry and bus access with free transfers.

Healthcare & Social Services

• Covered under provincial plans.
• NB and NL: Report longer wait times—walk-in clinics are common.
• Quebec: Free French language support, low daycare fees.
• SK & MB: Mental health services and newcomer orientation clinics are readily available.
• PEI: Strong rural health outreach programs; inter-island specialist visits.

Community Support

• Integration services are funded by IRCC and provincial governments.
• POP (Programme Objectif Intégration) in Quebec.
• Local job mentorship, resume-building workshops, and free ESL/FSL classes in most cities.

From student transit passes to healthcare and local support programs, these cities provide the essential services you need, without the big-city price tag.

Challenges of Living in Cheaper Cities in Canada

While budget-friendly cities offer relief from Canada’s rising living costs, they also come with certain lifestyle and professional trade-offs. These include limited job variety in some fields, seasonal weather challenges, and fewer urban amenities. 

Understanding these factors helps set realistic expectations before making the move.

• Language Barriers: Quebec City and Moncton require French for many roles. While language classes are free, the adjustment takes time.
• Harsh Winters: Winnipeg, Regina, and St. John’s can dip to –30°C. Winter gear is essential. Snow removal delays affect local commutes.
• Entertainment & Retail: Options are more localised. You’ll find fewer international chains, but festivals, farmers’ markets, and university events fill the gap.
• Healthcare Delays: NB, PEI, and NL sometimes report long waits for GPs. Alternative care (telehealth, clinics) is widely used.
• Job Variety: Niche professions, especially in media or advanced tech, may require remote work or relocation to bigger hubs.

Living in Canada’s cheapest cities means balancing affordability with practical challenges. With the right mindset and preparation, however, these cities offer a supportive, community-driven lifestyle—especially for students, families, and new immigrants ready to adapt.
 

Tips for Moving to an Affordable Canadian City

With thoughtful preparation—budget tools, housing research, language learning, and proactive integration—you can maximize the benefits of affordable living in Canada.

• Use Budget Tools: Numbeo, CMHC reports, and city-specific cost calculators help estimate your monthly outlay beyond rent.
• Neighborhood Research: In Halifax or London, proximity to transit and safe student zones matters. In Saskatoon, neighborhoods like Nutana and Sutherland are newcomer-friendly.
• Apply for Support Early:
  • Logis-Québec
  • Saskatchewan Shelter Enhancement Program
  • NB Housing Supplements
  • Student grants and bursaries via MyBlueprint or campus portals
• Winter Prep: Buy boots, jackets, and snow gear in late summer for discounts. Monitor local weather patterns and heating options.
• French Learning: Quebec and parts of NB offer free French training—Francisation, Volet Immigration programs.
• Community Integration: Join newcomer groups, cultural centres, and university orientation programs. Many cities have “Welcome Weekends” for residents.
• Job Search Strategy: Use provincial nominee programs (PNPs), look into in-demand roles in healthcare, trades, and education, and tailor your resume to Canadian standards.

Conclusion

The cheapest cities in Canada prove that a high quality of life doesn’t always come with a high price tag. With well-chosen locations, proactive budgeting, and strong community involvement, you can access excellent education, healthcare, job opportunities, and lively cultural experiences, without settling in an expensive metro. 

Whether you’re a student, a newcomer, or simply looking to stretch your rupee further, these cities offer smart, sustainable, and affordable ways to live well—and keep more money in your pocket.

Get expert tips tailored just for you! Book your 1:1 personalized counselling session today and discover how to make your journey to Canada truly affordable and stress-free!