With amazing outdoor activities for the whole family, stunning landscapes, a friendly population, a safe reputation, great schools and lots of job opportunities, it’s no surprise Canada has become a popular destination to move to. Crunching numbers and finances is the first step in any big move, and knowing exactly what the cost of living is will be a determining factor in making such a big decision. From accommodation to your loaf of bread, this article will delve into the main expenses you will have if you do decide to move.
How much does accommodation cost in Canada?
Accommodation will be your main expense in Canada, as well as utility bills. Of course, not all homes will cost the same. If you choose a big city and want to be in the CBD, you can expect to pay more than a rural property. The most expensive cities are Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa and Calgary, where a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center will set you back $1200 to $1400. A general rule of thumb is to allow 35% to 50% of your salary for your rent.
Despite being one of the most expensive cities, Montreal (as the others mentioned) has so much to offer. If you’re looking to spend less, you can search in areas a little further away from the center. The city has amazing public transport so you will only be a stone’s throw away from the action. A great way to find your perfect property is to use a property search engine. If looking for a house for rent in Montreal Quebec, you can easily filter by price, neighbourhood, size etc and access a large choice of listings. This will make your search easier and allow you to stay on budget. So, there are ways to spend less in the big cities on rent, by being flexible with proximity to the CBD.
How much do utilities cost in Canada?
Next you will have to calculate your fixed monthly expenses, after paying rent or mortgages. The usual costs tend to be electricity, water, gas, internet and phones. For electricity, the average bill is around $120 per month, similar to $104 for gas and $64 for water. As for internet, cable and phones, this depends on providers and speed, but you should budget around $40 for each. So, utilities aren’t too expensive in Canada and are well below the average for similar cities in the US or UK.
How much will my variable expenses cost in Canada?
Compared to the relatively high average monthly net salary, variable expenses aren’t too dear. Of course, eating at home instead of restaurants will significantly reduce your expenses. With a meal out for two people averaging at $85, you still have to be somewhat careful with your money. If you want to cook at home, Canada has plenty of fresh produce markets where you can get your hands on some great deals on ingredients, meaning you will spend less monthly.
A great advantage of Canada is the wide range of free activities you have at your doorstep for free. There are plenty outdoor routes to trek on and stunning landscapes. This means you don’t have to spend your money on fitness clubs if you don’t want to. The country also enjoys free universal health care, meaning you can rest easy and not worry about expensive medical bills.
In general, the average salary in Canada allows you to cover living costs and have some leftover. The great progressive system covers your basic health needs. The country is a fabulous option for expats, with a welcoming population, stunning nature, job opportunities and plenty of family friendly activities.
