least expensive place to visit in canada

14 Cheap Vacation Spots In Canada You Should Visit This Summer

Explore some of the most affordable summer vacation spots in Canada.

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More Of Cheap Vacation Spots In Canada You Should Visit This Summer

Canada's natural beauty and outdoor adventures make it top the list of the best tourist destinations in the world. From spectacular mountains and giant glaciers to pristine beaches, magnificent lakes, and gorgeous parks full of recreational activities, It is a beautiful country with a lot to offer. Summer is a magical time of the year to explore this North American country , thanks to the good weather. Traveling on a budget? There are plenty of affordable places that guarantee unforgettable retreats. Here are some of the cheap places to travel in Canada that all travelers should visit this summer.

UPDATE: 2023/08/25 13:51 EST BY REENA JAIN

One can enjoy a vacation without having to watch their expenditures by carefully selecting affordable vacation spots. And fortunately, Canada has plenty of these places. This list has been updated with four more of the cheapest places to visit in Canada that are full of memorable experiences.

The cheap vacation spots in Canada we recommend in this list are some of the top-rated summer destinations in the country. The accommodations included here have scored above 7.0 rating and received great reviews from previous visitors who describe the services as excellent.

Related: 10 Reasons To Visit Quebec City Instead Of Montreal This Winter

DoubleTree by Hilton West Edmonton

Lakeview signature, trademark collection by wyndham, hampton inn & suites by hilton saint john, applause hotel by clique, muskoka lakes hotel and resorts, hotel manoir de la tour, crimson jasper, the halliburton, little shemogue inn, la bohème bed & breakfast, the oswego hotel, shepody bay inn, sandman signature south hotel, doubletree by hilton windsor hotel & suites, edmonton, alberta.

Famous for its Indigenous-led experiences, Edmonton , the capital of Alberta, is brimming with interesting sights to see and things to do that can make a trip one to remember. Every visitor can find something to interest them, whether it be museums, shopping, sports, festivals, or events. Additionally, numerous free or reasonable activities, including the Alberta Legislature Building and the Neon Sign Museum, contribute to the trip's affordability. Budget-friendly lodging options ( DoubleTree by Hilton West Edmonton ) and a good public transportation system are further advantages for vacationers on a budget. So, for those looking for the cheapest place to travel in Canada, Edmonton is certainly a great option!

16615 109th Avenue North West, Edmonton, AB T5P 4K8

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg, Canada, is known worldwide for its winter fun! But there is plenty to see and experience in the capital city of Manitoba in the summer as well, such as exploring museums, spending the day at Assiniboine Park, and exploring a Hudson Bay Company trading fort. To save money on food, travelers will find many good dining locations. One such location is Paterson GlobalFoods Institute, which offers healthy and affordable meals. And for those who are staying in Winnipeg to enjoy its buzz to the fullest, Lakeview Signature, Trademark Collection by Wyndham , is a wonderful choice with great amenities and excellent service.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

1999 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1H5

Saint John, New Brunswick

Another one of the cheapest places to travel in Canada is Saint John. Here, travelers can hit the outdoors and soak in the beautiful views or visit parks for a leisurely stroll. Wandering around the Saint John City Market is the best way to explore North America's oldest market. There are numerous activities available for free, ranging from exploring the trails of Irving Nature Park to watching the highest tides on the planet in the Bay of Fundy. Also, there are many budget accommodation options, like Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Saint John , offering great amenities and ambiance at a reasonable price.

51 Fashion Drive, Saint John, NB E2J 0A7

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is a fantastic destination for tourists, with an array of lush parks, festivals, and other fascinating attractions, as well as the world-famous Calgary Stampede. With a wide selection of inexpensive or free activities, travelers will have no problem having a Calgary vacation within their budgets, making it one of the cheapest places to visit in Canada. What's more, this Canadian town is surrounded by many day trip destinations, including five incredible UNESCO sites . There are numerous accommodations that are both comfortable and affordable, including the Applause Hotel by Clique .

20 Aero Crescent Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 7Y5

Muskoka Lakes, Ontario

Muskoka is one of the best cheap vacation spots in Canada to visit this summer. It boasts plenty of small, charming towns and lakes – both small and large. What could be more fun than relaxing by the lakeside, marveling at the breathtaking view of the blue waters? It is a perfect way to connect with nature, especially at sunset. So, people looking to simply relax and enjoy the scenery, whether traveling as a family or couples in a romantic escape, should definitely opt for Muskoka Lakes. There are plenty of things to do, such as hiking, wildlife spotting, biking, and picnicking. Muskoka Lakes is one of the epic Ontario destinations to discover Canadian scenery . Looking for an affordable place to stay? Muskoka Lakes Hotel and Resorts offers budget-friendly accommodations that come with high-quality amenities.

4 Armstrong Point Road, Port Carling, ON P0B 1J0

Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is one of the Canadian destinations to visit at least once in a lifetime. Its main highlight is the colonial charm that vacationers can feel when they explore the cobbled streets, cathedrals, and plenty of other historic buildings. There are plenty of free and low-cost things to see and do in summer, including taking a free walking tour of the Old City, dining at some of the cheapest places in town, and experiencing Quebec nightlife . When compared to Montreal, Quebec is way cheaper (19% cheaper). Hotel Manoir De La Tour is very affordable and puts tourists right in the heart of the city, giving them access to some of the most striking attractions in the city, including Chateau Frontenac and Battlefields.

385, Grande-Allé Est, Québec City, QC

If visiting Quebec City in summer on a budget, vacationers should research the available promotions and packages that will make their stay affordable yet memorable.

Jasper National Park, Alberta

Jasper National Park is one of the best spots for experiencing Canada's beauty at its most impressive and should be on top of every vacationer's bucket list. It is famous for being the largest of the Alberta Rocky Mountains' national parks and boasts over 4,000 square miles of space. It is home to numerous magnificent mountains and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. Some of the animals to see here include bears, moose, elk, mountain goats, and wolves. It only costs about $60 per day to explore Jasper National Park, making it one of the cheapest vacation spots in Canada to visit in the summer. Crimson Jasper is one of the best places to stay when visiting Jasper National Park , as it puts them in the park only two minutes away from Icefields Parkway and six minutes from Patricia Lake.

200 Connaught Drive, Jasper, AB T031E0

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Escape the big cities like Toronto and spend this summer vacation in Halifax, one of the must-do things on a trip to Nova Scotia . The city is fun, friendly, and vibrant – and comes with plenty of free and low-cost things to explore. Walk along the beautiful waterfront boardwalk of Halifax, which is lined with restaurants, historical monuments, art displays, and more. Visit the Halifax Citadel, National Historic Site, and one of the most stunning Victorian buildings. Other spots to visit include the Seaport Farmers’ Market, Pier 21, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Only steps away from Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, Halliburton is an incredible accommodation option for tourists visiting the city.

5184 Morris Street, Halifax, NS

Related: 10 Scenic Road Trips To Take In Nova Scotia

Murray Beach, New Brunswick

Murray Beach is one of the cheap vacation spots in Canada to visit in summer, especially for those looking for relaxing places. The city is so charming that every tourist would fall in love with it the minute they arrive. There are numerous things to experience here, including swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the spectacular mountain views. It is one of Canada's best hidden gems and can be explored by tourists of all ages. Little Shemogue Inn is one of the best places to stay during a visit to Murray Beach.

2361 Route 955, Port Elgin, NB E4M 3K4

Eastern Townships, Quebec

Located in southeastern Quebec, Eastern Townships comprise small charming towns, cities, and villages. Travelers will see numerous summer homes and rent cottages that they can choose from. There are strong English influences in the region, thanks to the Scottish, Irish, British Loyalists, and American inhabitants that moved there in the late 18th century. The region is an outdoorsy traveler’s paradise since it has lots of outdoor adventure opportunities. La Bohème - Bed & Breakfast guarantees an unforgettable stay if visiting Bromont in the Eastern Townships.

Staying in Montreal? Eastern Townships is an incredible day trip from the city. Vacationers into nature should spare an hour or two on the road to enjoy the outdoor adventure paradise.

142 Rue des Mélèzes, Bromont, QC J2L 1T6

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is a perfect summer vacation spot for families visiting Canada on a budget. Nestled on the southern edge of Vancouver Island, BC's capital is one of the greenest cities in the country - and has numerous outdoor opportunities that tourists can enjoy in the parks and gardens. Some of the best landmarks in Victoria include Fisherman's Wife, the famous Craigdarroch Castle, British Columbia Parliament Buildings, and Christ Church Cathedral. The Oswego Hotel offers comfortable accommodation with incredible amenities – and is only minutes away from some of the most points of interest in Victoria.

500 Oswego Street, Victoria, BC

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

Fundy National Park is a hidden gem and one of the best cheap summer vacation spots in Canada not to miss. Dating back to 1950, this is one of the best tourist attractions on the Bay of Fundy . The national park boasts incredibly diverse landscapes, including lush jungles, plenty of beautiful waterfalls, and rugged coastlines. The park features a stunning boardwalk that offers wildlife spotting opportunities. Some of the inhabitants include raccoons, woodpeckers, shrews, and great blue herons. There are numerous hiking trails to explore, too. Spend a night at Shepody Bay Inn during a visit to this fabulous park.

Shepody Bay Inn 4941 Route 114, Riverside-Albert, NB E4H 4K2

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Visiting The Amazing Bay Of Fundy

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Travelers who enjoy the city's buzz and vibes but prefer it in a simpler setting would love to spend time in Saskatoon. Sometimes referred to as "Paris of the Prairies," thanks to its stunning architecture and plenty of beautiful bridges, this city guarantees an unforgettable summer trip without having to spend a dime. It is definitely one of the best cheap summer vacation spots in Canada to include on one's bucket list. The city's culinary scene is also fantastic, making it a foodie paradise with plenty of options to choose from. Sandman Signature South Hotel is a stylish hotel offering comfortable accommodations right in the heart of the city.

Northland Properties

2815 Lorne Avenue, Saskatoon, SK S7J 0S5

Windsor, Ontario

Windsor, Ontario, is one of the most beautiful southernmost cities in Canada and is known for having incredible bucket-list-worthy destinations that tourists can explore without spending a lot of money. From a rich history to a fantastic food scene to plenty of natural attractions, Winsor has a lot to offer visitors. Tucked away in the famous Great Lakes region, this is one of the best hidden gems to explore in Canada and guarantees an affordable summer getaway. Experience the charm of this town from the comforts of DoubleTree by Hilton Windsor Hotel & Suites .

333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, ON

The Cost of Travel in Canada: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

Oh, Canada! 

So let’s get it out of the way first: I may be slightly biased, due to being Canadian, but I’ve got to tell you — Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It’s kind of got everything, from breathtaking landscapes to wonderful people, and so many only-in-Canada animal encounter opportunities (kayaking with beluga whales, anyone? Or how about hanging out with polar bears in their natural habitat?) I truly believe Canada is one of the best countries to travel across.

Unlike most of my fellow Canadians, I’ve had the pleasure and privilege of exploring my homeland in depth. It’s something I’ve prioritised doing even more since the pandemic, spending loads of time in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Vancouver, and road-tripping from east to west across the entire country. It’d be fair to say I know Canada like the back of my hand.

As a result, I have plenty of firsthand knowledge of how much it costs to travel in Canada, and most importantly, how to save money on experiences as you do so.

I can’t sugar-coat it, so I’ll hold my hands up and confess that Canada isn’t a particularly budget-friendly destination, especially if you’re coming here to enjoy it as a visitor. It’s one thing to live frugally as a student, but another to be a tourist. That being said, there are so many ways to enjoy your time here to the fullest without breaking the bank and sleeping out in your car every night. 

If it’s possible, come visit us in Canada with a decent amount saved up (I’ll tell you how much to budget for each day), safe in the knowledge that spending that money will be 100% worth it. The expression spend your money on experiences not things will hit closer to home once you’ve seen what this country has to offer.

Today, I’m going to be sharing exactly how much it costs to travel in Canada, so let’s get started.

What’s Included in this Post 

This budget breakdown covers how much I spend on accommodation, transportation, activities, and food as I travel around the country. I’ve not included flights into and out of Canada, since this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from. 

The amounts in this guide are listed in U.S. dollars, simply because most of my readers are from the United States, as are the vast majority of visitors to Canada. If you’re converting U.S. dollars, euros or pounds to our weak Canadian dollar, then your time here might also feel more budget-friendly. 

Okay — let’s get started!

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Canada

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Housesitting  is a great option for  free  accommodation. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees: because you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. I have friends who have housesat in castles before! For free!  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The Cost of Accommodation in Canada 

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and frugal, you could opt to drive and camp your way through Canada. This can cost you as little as $20 a night , but be sure to reserve your spots with Parks Canada ahead of time as campsites can get full very fast. 

If camping doesn’t appeal, it’s time to check out hostels . In Canada, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Canada  are on a par with the rest of Northern America, and you can expect to spend around  $25-30 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel in Canada, with the price increasing to about  $40-50 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, prices vary quite a bit depending on where you’re going and the time of year. Over the last few months I’ve booked really nice private rooms for as little as $65 in shoulder season, but they’ve cost anything up to double that at peak times in major cities. Either way, if you’re travelling with friends or your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which usually come in at around  $150-$200 a night  for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use  Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

Toronto — Elegant Downtown Homestay ( $196 a night ): While you’re in Toronto, you can’t pass up staying at this lovely homestay. The location, quality, and affordability (for the area) can’t be beat. You want to be as central as possible during your time in Toronto and this stylish house is right near popular spots like Yonge-Dundas Square and the Distillery District while still being nice and quiet at night. I loved how clean and modern the rooms were, with a super-comfortable bed, smart TV, and coffee machine to get me started in the morning. What really made this place special, though, is just how nice the hosts were: it really did seem like nothing was too much bother!

Montreal — Maison Saint-Vincent ($188 a night) : Right in the heart of historic Montreal, you couldn’t ask for a better location for this great little hotel. It’s only a couple of minute’s walk from Notre Dame cathedral, with so many restaurants and cafes nearby that it was hard to choose where to go each night! The rooms were comfortable and modern, and came with an iPad loaded with useful neighbourhood information and an all-important Nespresso machine. There’s a kitchenette on each floor, with a designated area in the fridge for each room, and free croissants in the lobby each morning; that’s how I really knew I was in Montreal!

Ottawa — Auberge des Arts Bed and Breakfast ($96 a night) : I really couldn’t ask for better-priced accommodation in a better location than what I got at Auberge des Arts. Right beside the Byward Market in downtown Ottawa, it’s close to all the action while still being on a quiet street away from traffic noise. Major attractions like the National Gallery were barely a five minute walk away! Beyond the location, though, the place is just charming, and couldn’t have been further from a generic hotel stay. My room was lovely and spacious, with a very comfortable bed, and the owners couldn’t do enough for me, from waiting up for my late arrival to cooking up an incredible breakfast that still catered for my dietary restrictions!

Vancouver — Finding high-quality affordable accommodation in Vancouver isn’t always easy, but a rare exception is the excellent Times Square Suites ($209 a night) . I really liked this hotel; not only does it not break the bank, but it’s in a great location in a leafy part of the city’s West End, only a quick walk from Stanley Park, Vancouver Harbour, English Bay, and all the great eating and drinking options along Robson Street. It’s not just the location that made this place special, though: my room was much more spacious than usual for a major city, and immaculately clean. The bed was nice and comfortable, and I can’t say enough good things about the staff: their restaurant recommendations in particular couldn’t have been better!

Halifax — I absolutely adored my stay at the Prince George Hotel . Not only is it the most central property in town, but they offered so many additional amenities for the price. For $208 a night , I had access to a spacious, clean, and modern room, as well as a swimming pool, gym, and sauna – always appreciated! The breakfast was a vast buffet set-up, with everything you could possibly need to fuel your day’s exploration. Throw in a wonderfully comfortable bed and you’ve got yourself the perfect stay in Halifax!

Banff — Peaks Hotel and Suites ( $187 a night) : Considering that Banff is one of Canada’s most expensive vacation destinations, this place felt like a real bargain. My room was spotlessly clean and very spacious, with a comfortable bed and fantastic rain shower. The staff were lovely, and I really liked the little lounge area with free tea and coffee all day. I also got access to a bunch of amenities like a pool, hot tub, and gym at the sister hotel over the road: there’s a buffet breakfast available at that hotel as well, but all the restaurants and cafes in central Banff were only a short walk away, so I mostly ate there instead!

The Cost of Transportation in Canada

Car Rental — This is the main way that I’ve explored Canada and I can’t recommend it enough. Nothing else gives the same amount of flexibility, especially when it comes to getting into the national parks and many other beautiful but isolated parts of the country. If you have the time and are comfortable behind the wheel, there’s no better way to travel.

You can find great rental deal rates by using RentalCars.com in Canada, which is who I use to find cheap rentals all around the world. To give you an idea of the average cost, a two-week economy car rental from Vancouver to Toronto costs around $1736, which ends up being around $124 per day . That’s not including the cost of gas or insurance, but if you were to split this with one or two other people, it’s still pretty affordable! You’ll also pay a lot less if you return the car to the same place you rented it from.

Keep in mind that you need to be at least 25 years old to rent a car in Canada. 

Bus — This is a more affordable but less flexible way to get around Canada: it wouldn’t be my first choice for long-distance travel, but can be the best way to get between cities that aren’t far apart (by Canadian standards!). If your trip is mostly confined to cities near either the east or west coasts, this can be a great way to save money.

If you’re going to take a bus, I’d recommend Megabus for travel in Ontario. I used Megabus often while I went to university in Ottawa and it was comfortable, reliable, and affordable. As an example, they’ll take you between Toronto and Montreal for only $54 ! A couple of other good options for bus travel in Canada include:

• Coach Canada : Toronto, Montreal, Kingston, Niagara Falls and Hamilton
• Rider Express: Vancouver/Calgary, Winnipeg/Regina, Calgary/Edmonton, Edmonton/Regina

Train — If the idea of traveling by long-distance train across Canada sounds appealing (and why wouldn’t it?), check out Via Rail . With close to 8000 miles of track across eight provinces, you’ve got plenty of options when it comes to riding the rails. I’ve used Via Rail frequently in Ontario, and know many people who’ve used it to travel all around the country. 

If you want to see a lot of Canada in a short space of time, this is the way to do it. Get your camera out and prepare for jaw-dropping views. Here are some of the most popular routes and their one-way economy fares (taxes not included): 

• The Canadian Route ($381): Toronto – Vancouver, 4 nights/4 days
• The Ocean ($113): Montreal – Halifax: 1 night/1 day
• The Best of Manitoba ($179): Winnipeg – Churchill: 2 days/2 nights
• The Pacific North Coast ($121): Jasper – Prince Rupert: 2 days/1 night

Flying — For a long time, flying across Canada cheaply was unheard of. That’s the reason why so many Canadians weren’t able to do much travelling within their own country: it was just cheaper to fly to Europe than it was domestically. 

But over the past number of years, there’s been an influx of budget-friendly airlines in Canada that make flying a much more viable option if you want to quickly cover a lot of ground. Air Canada is the country’s biggest airline, but you’ll usually find cheaper prices with WestJet, Flair Airlines, and Swoop. In my opinion, you can’t really go wrong with any of these airlines for a domestic trip.

Here are some of the most common one-way routes and their average prices for an economy seat. I use Skyscanner to research all my flight options, since it consistently brings up the best fares. 

• Toronto to Vancouver — $59 
• Toronto to Halifax — $57
• Calgary to Vancouver — $36
• Toronto to Calgary — $62
• Montreal to Vancouver — $145

City Travel — When you’re sightseeing in a major city, the best way to get around is local transit. You can tap your credit or debit card on the reader in most major cities including Vancouver and Toronto, which is convenient if you’re only going to take public transport a few times.

If it’s something you’ll do regularly in Ontario, though, you’ll get free two-hour transfers if you use a Presto card instead. This tap-and-go card lets you pay for travel across 11 regions, including Ottawa and Toronto, and can be bought online or in-person.

If you’ll be doing a lot of travel on public transport in a single day, it’s worth picking up a day pass for whatever city you’re in instead. Fares for a few of the major cities include:

• Toronto TTC Day Pass: $10 per person
• Vancouver TransLink Day Pass: $8.35 per person
• Montreal Day Pass: $8.15 per person  
• Ottawa OC Transpo Day Pass: $8.75 per person  

The Cost of Food in Canada

Picture your favourite dishes from around the world, all in one place—that’s what it’s like to eat in Canada! Delicious and authentic eats can be found in nearly every corner of the country, from Vietnamese to Ethiopian to Italian and many others.

While there aren’t many “Canadian” dishes, you definitely have to get your hands on some poutine and a beavertail (don’t worry, not an actual one!). Beavertails are stretched pastries made out of fried dough to take the shape of their namesake; they can be topped with anything from sugar to peanut butter to chocolate. One of my favourite Canadian must-dos is to go skating, followed by a warm beavertail and hot chocolate; there’s truly nothing better in the winter. That combo costs around $9.

Poutine, if you haven’t heard of it before, is an absolute Canadian classic. Combining French fries with melted cheese curds and savory gravy, it’s not the healthiest of meal choices, but it is one of the most delicious. Your taste buds will thank you for this messy masterpiece, and your wallet will too: you can expect to pay $14 for more food than you know what to do with.

If you happen to find yourself in Montreal, run, don’t walk, to the nearest bagel store. Denser and chewier than traditional bagels, the ones you find in this city are slightly sweet thanks to a touch of honey in the dough. The real magic, though, lies in the iconic “Montreal-style” topping: a generous helping of sesame seeds baked right onto the crust. Pair this with a schmear of cream cheese, smoked salmon, or classic roast meat and mustard, and you’ve got an absolute taste sensation. St-Viateur makes particularly good ones, but competition is fierce so it’s hard to go too far wrong anywhere. You’ll pay around $10 for one.

And of course, no trip to Canada is complete without multiple Tim Hortons coffee runs, which by the way, are very budget friendly. You can get a coffee and bagel for as little as $3 !

The cost of food ranges depending on what you like to eat and how much you like to eat at restaurants. That being said, there’s plenty of ways to eat on a mid-range budget. Fast food costs anywhere from $7-$10 per person, while eating out at a mid-range restaurant like Cactus Club or Swiss Chalet will set you back around $20-$30 per person without drinks. Go high end, and you can easily pay $60 each or more.

While there are plenty of great restaurants to eat at in any major city or town, doing so for three meals a day does get expensive. Staying at accommodations with a kitchen, shared or otherwise, offers an easy way to save money on food. Groceries typically cost me around $80 per week, which is around $11.50 per day for fruit, vegetables, protein, and snacks. 

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Canada 

You’re in luck when it comes to the cost of activities and entrance fees in Canada, as most of what you see is beautiful Mother Nature herself! This is when road tripping is worth it, because driving through Canada is an experience in itself, with often jaw-dropping views just outside your window. 

There are some attractions and parks, though, that are definitely worth seeing if you’re in the area. Learning from exhibitions at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, seeing whales in their natural habitat off the coast of Vancouver, and walking next to Niagara Falls are a few of my favourite travel experiences in Canada. 

If you’re more of a nature or outdoorsy person, I’d recommend spending more time and money on activities and attractions in western Canada (B.C. and Alberta). If you’re more into history, the arts, and urban exploring, then central and eastern Canada (Southern Ontario, Montreal) will be more up your alley. 

Here’s a breakdown of some my favourite attractions in Canada and their respective costs: 

• CN Tower (Toronto): $32 per person
• Parliament Hill Tour (Ottawa): FREE
• National Gallery of Canada (Ottawa): $15 per person or FREE on Thursday evenings
• Banff Gondola (Banff): $43 per person
• Columbia Icefield Skywalk (Banff): $31 per person  
• Whale watching (Vancouver): $133 per person
• Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Winnipeg): $14 per person or FREE on Sundays
• Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place: $7 per person
• Niagara Falls: FREE 

Tours are really a great way to experience the country. I recommend hopping over to Get Your Guide for a range of activities and tours, like the Banff National Park Big Canoe Tour ($49), Ottawa sightseeing bike tour ($52) or a Niagara Falls Day Tour ($151). 

And You Can’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Canada. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Canada? 

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

• Accommodation: $181 per day for two people ($90.50 per person)
• Transportation: $124 per day for two people ($62 per person)
• Food: $27 per day
• Activities/Entrance Fees: $16 per day

Average amount spent in Canada: $195.50 a day!

Author bio: Born and raised in Toronto, Lydia has found “home” throughout her travels around the world. She’s a passionate storyteller and writer and you can usually find her dreaming about new adventures or having a deep conversation with a friend. 

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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So nice to read some Canada content on your site! The one activity that’s on my Canada bucket list is seeing the polar bears in Churchill! Definitely a big ticket activity, but it looks soooo cool.

Ah, I totally agree! That’s very high on my list of things to do in Canada!

A great read, and good to hear that it doesn’t have to be too expensive. I love the idea of taking the train across Canada from east to west, and also road tripping and camping around the country. And like the other commenter mentioned, the polar bears! There’s so much to see and so little time.

Same, same, same! There’s so much to do in Canada that you could spend years exploring and barely even scratch the surface!

So useful! Especially as Canada is about to open its borders to international tourists next month. I can’t wait to visit — thanks for all the useful tips and information in this guide.

Hi Lauren, thanks so much for your recent post its very helpful. My wife and I are coming to Canada-Vancouver, early June for 19 days. We are planning to do 4-5 days on Vancouver Island a few days in Vancouver and rest travelling towards Calgary/Edmonton before internal flight back to Vancouver (not set in stone ,but just our thoughts). We want to visit Whistler and travel the 2 peaks Gondola then travel onwards over the next few days to Lake louise/Calgary . We now feel that rather than travel onto Calgary then take an internal flight back to Vancouver, that the road and activities to Jasper is very appealing. Can you advise an opinion on whether it would be best to travel back to Vancouver from Whistler, and then fly to say Edmonton and travel to Jasper – Lake Louise before a return flight to Vancouver from Calgary. Do you think the road from Jasper to Lake louise is a better drive with the possible activities than Whistler to Lake louise?. Kind Regards Mark

Hey great post, really appreciate all the info. One thing though – we’ll be in Canada for a month, have iphones.. what would be the best sim for travellers? Is there a generic easy to buy one that we can get at the airport or.. should i just get a random travel one from online? Cheers

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The Cheapest Places to Travel in Canada in 2020

Are you looking to explore more of the Great White North but don’t want to break the bank? Check out these 20 inexpensive hidden gem destinations, all right here in Canada.

/travel/photos/cheapest-places-to-travel-to-in-canada-this-year/ 22453

Radium Hot Springs, B.C.: $128

Windsor, Ontario: $104

Carleton-sur-Mer, Quebec: $104

Cochrane, Alberta: $142

Squamish, B.C.: $143

Elora Gorge, Ontario: $69

Quebec City, Quebec: $98

Tobermory, Ontario: $146

Cypress Hills, Saskatchewan: $31

Port Renfrew, B.C.: $121

Yellowknife, NWT: $168

Algonquin, Ontario: $13

Drumheller, Alberta: $165

Revelstoke, B.C.: $188

Milk River, Alberta: $135

Fredericton, New Brunswick: $94

Cavendish, PEI: $138

Winnipeg, Manitoba: $74

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia: $148

Pemberton, B.C.: $10

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Best places to visit in canada for 2023-2024.

From the cosmopolitan streets of Toronto to the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, our neighbor to the north features a diverse set of vacation destinations that are beautiful year-round. Deciding which one is perfect for your next getaway can be difficult. That's why U.S. News considered several factors, such as affordability, entertainment options and diversity of hotels and resorts, as well as user votes and expert opinions, to compile this list of the best places to visit in Canada. Vote for your favorite spot below to have a say in next year's list.

Jasper National Park

Vancouver, canada, niagara falls, quebec city, prince edward island, gros morne national park, victoria & vancouver island, cape breton highlands national park, mont-tremblant, okanagan valley.

Nestled amid the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this tiny mountain town in Alberta appeals to both nature enthusiasts and luxury seekers. Visitors can spend their days skiing or hiking in Banff National Park (one of Canada's most beautiful national parks and home of the glacier-fed Moraine Lake) and floating down the Bow River on a canoe before retiring to one of the area's several opulent hotels for some spa therapy. Then, for incredible views of the Rockies, take a ride on the Banff Gondola. Meanwhile, daytrips to popular attractions like the Columbia Icefield, Yoho National Park and Lake Louise cannot be left off of your itinerary.

As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is ripe for exploration. When you're not hiking through Maligne Canyon, whitewater rafting down the Athabasca River or snapping photos of Spirit Island, you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the picture-perfect scenery from the Jasper SkyTram. Or, take in the beauty of Jasper National Park while driving along the Icefields Parkway. Keep your eyes peeled for the 53 species of mammals that call this Alberta park home, including black bears, elk and bighorn sheep.

A trip to this British Columbia city, which sits approximately 145 miles north of Seattle, is all about embracing the outdoors. Vancouverites spend their days skiing on Grouse Mountain, swimming at Kitsilano Beach and strolling through the sprawling Stanley Park. Plus, Vancouver offers plenty of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries and outdoor markets (a tour of Granville Island is a must-do). If you're not afraid of heights, walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is positioned 230 feet above the Capilano River.

Travel to this iconic destination in southeastern Ontario to see and capture photos of its namesake world-famous tourist attraction . View Niagara Falls from above during a helicopter tour, or see them up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Or, for a unique perspective, admire the thunderous falls from behind with the self-guided Journey Behind the Falls experience. After you've taken in the splendor, check out the area's other top attractions, such as the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which offers a variety of hiking trails. When you've had your fill of nature, head to nearby wineries or test Lady Luck at the casinos.

Referred to as the "small city with a big backyard," Whitehorse – the capital of Canada's Yukon territory – shines with all of its outdoor activities. Explore Miles Canyon, which is accessible from Whitehorse on foot (a nearly 10-mile loop trail connects the city directly to this natural wonder). After, head north to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you'll find all kinds of animals, including arctic foxes, elk, muskox and bison. Even though this region gets notoriously cold, you might want to time your visit around the first couple of weeks of winter for a chance to witness the northern lights.

A trip to Europe may not be in your budget, but a visit to Québec City could be. This Canadian city charms visitors with its picturesque centuries-old buildings that make up Old Québec – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, the aromas of freshly baked bread and brewing espresso fill the cobblestone streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain with the essence of Paris. Once you've gotten your fill of the city, take a trip to Montmorency Falls Park to marvel at its 272-foot-tall waterfall. Plan your visit for winter when the city comes alive with twinkling lights, festivals and cold-weather activities – just remember to pack your down jacket .

Take adventure travel up a notch with a visit to Whistler. In winter, this resort town in British Columbia (about 75 miles north of Vancouver) boasts everything from cross-country skiing and snowboarding to bobsled rides and bungee jumping. Travelers can spend their downtime in Whistler Village enjoying the après-ski scene, perusing locally owned shops or strolling through Whistler Olympic Plaza. Meanwhile, visitors in town when the weather is warmer can go hiking, fishing, horseback riding, kayaking and more. Plus, summer travelers will love exploring Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, home to the 230-foot-tall waterfall from which the park gets its name.

Home to rolling green hills, sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs and a delicious bounty of seafood (this is where PEI mussels come from, after all), Prince Edward Island is the place to travel for a relaxing respite from Canada's more adventure-driven destinations. When you're not hiking the trails at Prince Edward Island National Park, perfect your swing at one of the island's golf courses or visit the Green Gables Heritage Place, where the 1908 novel, "Anne of Green Gables" was inspired. And be sure to keep an eye out for PEI's seal population (four kinds call the island home either full or part time).

This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses nearly 700 square miles of land on Newfoundland's west coast. Its top activity is undoubtedly hiking through the Tablelands. Here, you'll traverse exposed earth mantle, a rust-colored landscape that was created millions of years ago by a collision of tectonic plates. Also save time for a boat ride on Western Brook Pond, which is a glacier-carved, landlocked fjord that features cascading waterfalls measuring 2,000 feet. After getting a taste of nature, learn about the region's history at the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse.

Montréal is a city of juxtaposition: Skyscrapers rub elbows with Old Montréal's 17th-century architecture while the familiar sounds of English intermingle with the foreign buzz of French – the official language of Québec province. Visit Old Montréal to get a taste of Europe (think: beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets), including its own Notre-Dame Basilica, a grand Gothic Revival-style church that offers self-guided tours along with an evening sound and light show. Then head to modern attractions, such as the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts. Meanwhile, if you're visiting during the warmer months, don't miss out on the Montréal Botanical Garden and the scenic Mount Royal Park.

While Montréal and Québec City honor Canada's French roots, Victoria pays tribute to the country's British heritage. Many pay a visit to Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, for afternoon tea, a tour of the beautiful Parliament Buildings or a history lesson at the Royal BC Museum. Others are interested in visiting Vancouver Island's wineries to sample local vinos. Meanwhile, animal lovers enjoy the abundance of marine wildlife that call the waters surrounding Victoria home. In fact, there are nearly 80 orca whales in Victoria's waters. What's more, since Victoria is one of the most sustainable urban destinations in North America, visitors can feel good about the impact of their trip.   

"Big" doesn't even begin to describe this Ontario city. With cultural pockets like Greektown, Little India and Koreatown all within city limits, Toronto has the ability to transport visitors around the globe. Take it all in with a ride up the 1,815-foot-tall CN Tower, or enjoy a quintessentially Canadian experience at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Then, head to the St. Lawrence Market to sample gourmet goodies before checking out the nearby Harbourfront Centre. And if the weather is right, plan a visit to the Toronto Islands, where you can relax on the beach, go kayaking or enjoy an afternoon bike ride.

The star of this national park on Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island is the world-famous Cabot Trail – one-third of which runs through the park. As you drive the winding highway, which is considered one of the world's most scenic drives, you'll pass forested river canyons, rural fishing villages and plenty of lookout points for admiring Nova Scotia's serene landscape. Prefer to explore the park on your own two feet? There are 26 hiking trails to choose from, as well as opportunities for kayaking, mountain climbing, camping and more.

Located a little more than 80 miles northwest of Montréal in Québec's Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant is best known for its skiing, specifically Mont Tremblant Ski Resort, which occupies the highest peak in the mountain range. But warm-weather visitors are equally enchanted by its Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, which boasts six rivers and 400 lakes and streams, not to mention countless hiking trails and beaches. Water sports, fishing and mountain biking are all popular here thanks to the area's diverse landscape.

Stretching across more than 150 miles, the Okanagan Valley is home to 86% of British Columbia's vineyard acreage and features more than 200 world-class wineries. There are also a variety of subregions in the valley, each promising its own unique experiences and grape varietals. If you are looking to combine wine tasting with outdoor pursuits, visit the Naramata Bench. This area is packed with wineries and offers everything from kayaking to mountain biking. No matter which area you visit, you'll enjoy spectacular views that rival those of the world's best wine regions .

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Kluane National Park and Reserve

Saint John, New Brunswick

You May Be Interested In

Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023

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Best Places to Visit in Winter

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9 Most Affordable Cities in Canada For Living and Travel

Canada finds itself within the top spots on all sorts of rankings; “the fifth most expensive country in the world”, “one of the most-loved countries in the world”, as well as offering some of the top universities around the globe and the highest life expectancy rate. In other words, Canada is the dream country for a lot of people and for a lot of good reasons: bacon, maple syrup, breathtaking natural scenery, over-the-top-politeness, hockey, and great healthcare. But if you want to move there, you’re probably looking for the most affordable cities in Canada, eh?

While you won’t find the cheapest rent in Canada in, say, Toronto, with a bit of research and some basic budgeting skills, we dare say that living in Canada can be a lot more affordable than living in cities like New York, Washington, D.C., or Los Angeles.

What makes these the most affordable Canadian cities?

When comparing the cost of countries and cities, there are certain things that you must take note of — like the cost of renting or buying a place and its size, the cost of utilities, groceries, eating out, transportation, and so on.  

Everything needs to be taken into account, so when you actually break it down to specifics, most people would be surprised to find that living in Canada can be quite affordable with an income or some substantial savings.

Once you get outside of the expensive city life of Vancouver and Toronto, you will find that real estate and the cheapest cost of living in Canada is found in places like Quebec, Saskatchewan, Ontario, or British Columbia, and most of these places are within driving distance to the big cities.

These places are affordable even for students on a tight budget. Unlike other places, where food is one of the cheapest things, in Canada, due to its cold climate, most of the food comes from export, which makes groceries pretty expensive.

But, somehow we’ve done it and we’ve made a list of the 9 most affordable cities to live in Canada. Let’s check ‘em out together!

9 cheapest places to live in Canada

1. sault ste. marie, ontario.

Although Ontario is home to some of the most expensive cities in Canada, it’s also home to some of the most affordable cities, such as Sault Ste. Marie. Bring your skills to the third-largest city of Ontario, where there are a significant number of jobs in all industries, and where you can find rent for about $1000 per month.

The favorable work-life balance is a reality and not just a dream in Sault Ste. Marie. Here you can access high-quality education, enjoy renowned, beautiful, and inspiring landscapes (such as the Agawa Canyon), and find out why winter sports are an integral part of the Canadian lifestyle. Experience the best cottage life with roasted marshmallows, hiking, hot saunas, and a swim.

2. Rimouski, Quebec

The residents of Rimouski consider themselves to be the happiest people in Quebec. This may be due to the city’s natural setting and location on the shores of the largest estuary in the world, which offers an exceptional natural environment that can be explored through hiking trails, sea kayaking, bird watching, and marine science.

Rimouski also encourages academic success and work-study balance, and is home to some of the best jobs for women in science and engineering. With a steady monthly income and an affordable rent for about $800 per month, this definitely makes Rimouski one of the most affordable cities in Canada and worth checking it out.

3. Timmins, Ontario

It is very likely that the only thing you know (or should know) about Timmins is that it’s Shania Twains’ hometown. However, it’s also worth knowing that Timmins is also one of the most affordable cities to live in Canada, as well as a dream city to all you nature lovers out there! 

Although most jobs are in mining or foresting, there are also more and more job opportunities in retail, communications, engineering, and IT each year. Timmins is where city meets nature, and Ontario’s hidden natural gem! You can rent an apartment for about $700 per month in the city, and have the great outdoors right at your back porch. Get the best of both worlds!

4. Quesnel, British Columbia

Quesnel is one of Canada’s smallest cities, as well as one of the most affordable Canadian cities. If you’ve ever dreamed about moving to a quiet city for about $850 per month, close to nature (say, a 10-20 minute walk to a semi-wild outdoor space) where wildlife encounters are common, then you should give Quesnel a chance.

The city offers great schooling opportunities for your future children, as well as job prospects at one of the thriving local businesses or in wood product manufacturing, agriculture, agri-technology, mining, or tourism; talk about a well-rounded lifestyle. Oh, and did we mention that Quesnel also has the lowest tax rate in Canada? Think about that for a minute!

5. St. Catharines, Ontario

If you’re new to Canada and don’t want to struggle with the expensive life of living in Toronto, you could opt for St. Catharines instead, one of the most affordable places to live in Canada that also offers a wide range of job opportunities to choose from. The real estate and rent prices are half of what you’d find in Toronto, and if you ever feel an itch to visit the big city, you’re only an hour away.

St. Catharines has its own attractions and year-round events that will most likely keep you entertained for a while, such as art exhibits, festivals, theatre performances, historical museums, great shopping opportunities, a rapidly growing number of local craft breweries, and some of the most breathtaking natural sights you’ve ever seen. The Garden City, as it’s also nicknamed, truly has it all.

6. Abbotsford, British Columbia

When we’re talking about the most affordable places to live in Canada, we can’t forget about Abbotsford, the cheapest big city in British Columbia. Job opportunities can be found in various sectors such as trade, construction, aerospace, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, or transportation. Rent prices vary depending if you’re living in the city or not, and can cost you anywhere from $600 to $1200 per month.

Abbotsford is close to the international border and within an hour’s drive to cities like Vancouver or Richmond. It’s hard not to love Abbotsford when you get to sunbathe by the ocean during hot summers and go skiing or hiking during the cold season! You’ll also get to do your grocery shopping at the local farmers’ market and always eat fresh produce, even when you go out to eat. Sounds like a perfect move to us!

7. Lévis, Quebec

Another city in Quebec, Lévis, also finds itself on our list of most affordable Canadian cities. With a low unemployment rate and lots of job opportunities with high income, good access to public transportation, and affordable rent in modern apartment buildings, Lévis seems to be the perfect place for having an outstanding quality of living.

When it comes to attractions and fun activities, the city has it all, from shopping malls, historic sights and bridges, and cultural events to sky hills, ferries, and lively restaurants with diverse cuisine. In Lévis, life is good…and waiting for you!

8. Brockville, Ontario

Brockville is not only one of Canada’s oldest cities but also one of the most affordable cities in Canada, with tourism as a major industry due to its picturesque islands with sandy beaches, overnight camp facilities, and the best freshwater shipwreck diving activities in the world. 

Whether you’re searching for a house on the river, or a condo downtown, you can find both at an affordable price. No matter where you live in Brockville, you’re within a short drive to parks, walking trails, schools, restaurants, shopping, or theatres. Imagine what you can do with all that time you’d have, instead of sitting in traffic.

9. Weyburn, Saskatchewan

Weyburn, the Opportunity City, was ranked in the top five best places to live in Canada in 2017, and took the top spot as the best prairie city to live in two consecutive years, 2018 and 2019. What else makes this city so great? The fact that it’s also one of the most affordable cities in Canada!

Even though oil drives most of the economy, other businesses and employment opportunities are blooming. Plus, the cost of living is low and modern homes can be found at an affordable price. Unlike other parts of Canada where you could freeze to death, Weyburn is actually one of the warmest spots in Saskatchewan all year round.

With FMT, everywhere is the cheapest place to live in Canada

When you’re starting life in a new place, it’s always best to make it a smooth start, and that can be done with a good starting budget. So open a fundraising campaign with FundMyTravel early on, before you start the entire moving process!

Friends, family, and internet strangers will have enough time to donate towards your dream, and you can concentrate on the important details, like picking out the cheapest places to live in Canada. FundMyTravel gives you a real chance at making your dreams come true, whatever those dreams may be.

The most affordable Canadian cities are waiting for you!

Your dream of moving and living in Canada can now become reality. Start researching the 9 most affordable cities in Canada that we’ve put together for you, and if you still feel like you haven’t found home yet, then research some more!

There are countless other affordable places to live in Canada, and you will most definitely find the most affordable city in Canada that soothes your soul. And just because you can’t live right downtown a big vibrant city, does not mean you can’t enjoy it.

Remember: When you live in an affordable place, it’s easier to save up money for yearly vacations and even some weekend getaways here and there, to keep your traveling heart happy.

Start Your Fundraising Campaign Today!

This article was written by Lucy Dinu . Lucy is an entrepreneur and world traveler—plus writer by day, and reader by night. Born and raised in Romania, Lucy has lived in three different countries and, together with her husband, has traveled to over 20. She strongly believes in personal development, speaks five languages (with a sixth in progress!), and is passionate about everything that puts a smile on people’s faces. Through her unique traveling stories, Lucy aims to inspire others to get out of their comfort zone and explore the world.

Comments (73)

Thanks, nicely composed ,very helpful.one can realy dream to settle in the most charming places .The dence papulation in Indian cities make life difficult.

Thank you so much for the Interesting information.

Thank you very much! I really appreciate the details.

Hello me and my family are starting our journey. Thank you this article was very helpful

Thks it opens others mind of development and motivate your inspiration

Hi Lucy Greetings from India.

A very well researched and a perfect guide for someone planning to move to Canada on a budget and what can be better to base one self in a dream location which offers job /earning opportunities offers,world healthiest lifestyle ,ever so close to the bounty offered by nature and above all at this at an affordable price .

Appreciate your Fundraising campaign Best practice which are very practical . 5 Star to this article, your website and your enthusiasm .

Manoj .K. Kashyap Can be reached at [email protected] and is a advisor at a premier Immigration Consultancy at Chandigarh India enabling students,job seekers to reach their ‘Dream Destinations’

ollluuuu!!!

Its a great piece o information for aspirant to live and settle in Canada and also for new immigrants.

your survey doesn’t mention anywhere in New Brunswick and regions Atlantic !!! what a poor survey !! i know pretty well all Canada and better for you guys not taking this survey too much seriously ! but yes Rimouski is very cold in winter and windy and there is plenty of options to live in Canada outside the majors cities !

My sister and I are both retired and living on social security and would like to relocate from the U.S. to Canada. We have two purebred ragdoll cats. What #1 location in Canada is the most affordable for renting an apartment? Any information would be great. Thank you

I would be very careful as healthcare in many affordable places is non existent!!

That’s a great point. I grew up in Quesnel BC, and we did have a hospital and quite a few doctor’s clinics. But if you needed any kind of specialist appointment you had to drive to either Prince George or sometimes Williams Lake, which are about two hours away. Could make things difficult if you didn’t own a vehicle.

Iwant to work and to live in Canada because Canada is beautiful country in the world and It’s my dream to be Canadian in my life and I want to change my life in Canada

That’s Good Michael. Where are you now?

Don’t even bother coming to our country if you don’t know our history. People come to our country to live and be free , but they have no idea what’s actually happening in Canada.

That statement is true for some of the cities listed however, St. Catharines has good access to health care. I would not say it is as affordable as the article suggests. $1000 per month rent in St. Catharines is likely a one bedroom or basement apartment. If you are middle to upper middle class (60-120k + income) sure your dollar will go further than say the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) but keep in mind the GTA is very expensive.

How can you forget New Brunswick, where living is very economical and standard is very good

Stay there, we don’t want COVID here

Unless you are already a Canadian citizen, the country is not going to let you stay there for more than 6 months at a time and you won’t be able to claim US benefits or draw on Canadian benefits while you are in Canada (you can’t set up a bank account without a legal reason to stay, so you’d have to have savings to support your vacations to Canada). Best advice is to stay where you are or move to a more affordable state.

Do you mean a visiting US citizen cannot receiver her social security while in Canada? Not very hospitable. I have had enough of US and its cursed desire for fascism! I need to get out! I have every expectation of paying my own way and not being a drain on Canada!

I am 79 yrs. old and live on s/s, can I afford to live in Canada?

This list makes me kinda of giggle if they think weyburn sask is cheap to live in that they definitely don’t live here! I do and I can tell you that it’s not cheap to live her jobs are scares,rent is high and groceries are ridiculous(box of cereal average 8 bucks) so yeah it’s not as cheap as one would like to think,just saying??‍♀️ Would love to know how they make their decision on what’s cheap and what’s not!

Me too, I’d also love to know where they got their info on housing prices, because they were way off on Abbotsford. I live there and you’d never find anything to rent under $1,000.

That is my question also. I live on ss in sc and really want to know HOW to move to Canada. I detest the heat and humidity here.

@- Dorothy Vaughan: You would be one the dumbest Americans that even want to move to this socialist F@&hole that call Canada.

Many places in Southern Canada also have high humidity and heat in the summer months starting anytime from May to October so you’d have to do your research on each province and their weather trends. I live in Southern Ontario and also hate our heat and humidity. Also you’d have to be accepted by Canada Immigration as having a needed job skill or being independently financially. You would not be able to access our medical care otherwise.

Oh, dear. We have serious heat and humidity here during the summer and if you live on either coast, the humidity is equally horrible in the winter. You may want to re-think your strategy.

Do not know where you got all the info but, Dalhousie N.B. rent is 500 a month. That is cheaper than everything you have listed.

Not finding any on that price, any link can provide?

Wow! Really? Is that for room or whole apartment?

My wife and I would like to relocate to Red Deer, Alberta.Is Red Deer as beautiful as it looks? Is it a nice little city to retire in? I’m 55 and retired.My wife the same.Please let me know.We want to move in November.

Yes, Red Deer is a beautiful city with walking paths along the river and other natural areas. There are well-defined neighbourhoods, and a history of solid city planning. It has grown a lot in the past twenty years, and the city has all of the services and shops you could wish for on a daily basis. But if there is something special you want, you are only an hour or so to Edmonton or Calgary. Red Deer has been the hub of Central Alberta forever, and there is a strong cooperation between the county and the city. The longtime residents are friendly, and Alberta comes with a ‘can do’ “let’s get ‘er done” attitude. On the negative side, Red Deer is like other cities with rapid modern growth—crime has increased as drugs moved into the area.

I would love to visit these places they seem so peaceful and pleasant.

Hi I was wondering if you liked Portugal and if you did what was your favorite place if you wanted to live there

Sault Ste. Marie is not even close to being “the third-largest city of Ontario”. According to the 2016 census, it’s the 27th largest.

Lol ikr I died when I read that. ??

I was thinking the same thing. LOL-ster

What is the price of accommodation like Apartments Condos Semi detached house InBritish Columbia cheepecst city.

And say monthly EXPENCES I am 63 years and my wife is 52

As a former resident of Weyburn Saskatchewan, I can assure you that it may have cheap rent and cheaper houses compared to the big cities, but the cost of living isnt cheap. Groceries for one is rediculasly expensive! Spending $100 isnt hard when shopping for basics like milk, bread, cheese and coffee. And when the oil prices drop unemployment there is absolutely TERRIBLE! Good luck finding a job because unless you know everyone then you’re last on the list to get a job. Typical small town Saskatchewan! The rumour mill is one of the only thriving opportunities there! Hahah. Just dont be on the bad side of it!

Great read, but I currently live in Abbotsford and I can tell you you would absolutely never find something to rent for $600 here. $1,000 for a one bedroom apartment is about the cheapest you’ll find. We rent a three bedroom basement suite for $1,550 a month. Just makes me wonder how accurate the other housing prices they list are.

Thanks. If the current idiot president is re-elected, I’ll need all these names.

You and me both!

Hi Karen Shaver: The current, idiot president WASN’T re-elected but his stench still pervades our country. …and he’s determined to continue his adulation by his minions at any cost to our country and its democratic process. I’m a dual citizen (Canada and U.S.) checking out this page because it’s getting tough to come to grips with what our country is actually comprised of. …maybe we’ll have to be room-mates – hahaha.

St.Catharines? Cheap? Maybe compared to Toronto but on average we’re trying to get outta this area. Look at what you can get for $500,000 for houses around here and look what you can get for the same in New Brunswick or parts of B.C. I just shake my head. I think all of ontario is the most expensive place in Canada.

Good little article, however I should correct you on the cost of living in Timmins. You most certainly cannot find even a 1 bdrm apt for $700 monthly. I’ve lived here all my life, I paid that figure when I was 18, well over 20+ years ago.

This list seems totally arbitrary. What quantitative criteria was used other than a pitching darts at a map?

Abbotsford is in the containment of Vancouver, one of the most expensive cities in Canada. The average house price is $662,000 Can (Oct 2020). If you want rural, most rural place in BC cost less.

If you pick a place like Quesnel or Weyburn, you could pick almost any rural place or small town in Canada. Try Trail, BC where you have a choice of world class ski hills, outdoor eco-adventure, a regional airport airport, lake and river recreation and a large regional hospital. Median price for a single family house is about $180,000 Can with prices starting at about $100,000. Rural place in the Kootenays (southeast British Columbia) are a steal. There just isn’t any work unless you have a government background. If you are retired with some kind of income and a bit of equity, there are many places available. It just depends on your expected lifestyle.

This list of 9 places means nothing without some kind of qualifying criteria explained and some quantifiable analysis…not just subjective ramblings.

Hi Lucy, thank you so much for this write up. It is very helpful

If trump gets re-elected in Nov., my wife and I want to move to Canada. I’m on a fixed income which includes S.S. My wife isn’t old enough yet to retire. She has a Master’s Degree in Adult Education and wants to start her own online business. Are there communities between Ontario and British Columbia where we would be able to start anew? Place/s that are safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly? We’ve looked at various places online but they all seem somewhat confusing and tilted to the best of everything without any reality check on the worst. Any help will be greatly appreciated. We are afraid for the future of America if trump gets re-elected. Please help us make a new start. Thank you. David

Today is Election Day. I’m scared to pieces that the lunatic trump may win the Electoral College again. If he does, Canada here I come. The U.S.A. may never recover from a second trump term.

You might check Baie-Saint-Paul-du-Charlevoix, Quebec. It is about 90 minutes way from Quebec city; in a gauffre -like valley which shelters it from the wind; a UNESCO natural heritage site; home of Cirque Du-Soleil and more artists per capita than any other village in Canada. Healthy, Quite. Clean. Affordable. Contact their tourism site. Visit any season. You will relax and enjoy.

There are tons of places that are safe. Especially with our gun laws. I’d stay away from cities like Thunder Bay, Winnipeg, Regina, And Saskatoon. As the Native street gangs are making those cities extremely unsafe and have the highest murder rates within Canada, which is still considerably low compared to American cities, but nevertheless I wouldn’t recommend them, especially Regina Saskatchewan and Winnipeg Manitoba. Calgary is very nice and there is SOOOOO much to do there, and the mountains are so close. Edmonton is another great Canadian city. But both can be expensive depending on what part of the city you choose.

However If you like the quiet simple life, but still have access to the major amenities, any smaller city on the prairies are amazing! Estevan Saskatchewan is only 15 miles to the North Dakota border. Weyburn is slowly becoming the retirement capitol of Saskatchewan with it having more and more retirement/adult living condos going up in recent years. Also Moose Jaw, Swift Current, Yorktown, Kindersley, and even The Battlefords Are all great place to live and they have most of the needs someone might want to retire, (hospital with specialists, doctors, dentist/denturist, grocery shopping, Walmart ((not a superstore though)), hardware and other diy stores, and every Canadians favourite TIM HORTONS!!!! Lol)

Hello. I`m Romanian but I live in UK with my son (12 years old). I am planning to move to Canada before my son goes to university. Some advices will be very welcome. Thank you in advance

Thanks for this vital information…..Very important!

Thank you for your information. It gives me a leg up on working towards my dream of relocating to Canada. I am a New Yorker, living in Carolina wanting to buy a couple of acres and homestead.

I even more appreciate the suggestion to start that savings taking steps to make my dream my reality.

I would like to know where in Abbotsford you can rent for $600 ? I live there and you are a lunatick if you think there is rent here for $600. Rent is high and I want to move away to get some reasonable rent. All your estimates are probably off if this is any indication. Write about something you know about next time or just stop writing PERIOD !! I will look elsewhere for advice now !!!

I agree with the other comments. I came here to find some helpful information and found none. Abbotsford is VERY expensive. Sure Quesnel is cheap, but has anyone looked at the town? It’s falling apart and criminality is high as are substance abuse issues.

Its wonderful to live in those beautiful and affordable cities. I love the cities.

This young lady doesn’t really no what she’s talking and pulled some outdated information off some website for her story.

I am a Nigerian French teacher not very fluent in the use of the french language, which affordable territory can my husband, my four children and I immigrate to in Canada and also easily secure teaching job. My husband is a trader here in Nigeria.

Thank you for these wonderful information about the history of Canadian affordable places to leave in. May God bless you ??

Hi David. I feel for you. I’ve been following the Trump nightmare for over a year now. I lived in Colorado for 11 years working as an RN. Loved it there, but missed my Canadian lifestyle. People here are considerate & more socially responsible. I certainly don’t miss paying for my healthcare, which is one huge advantage of living in Canada. Also, our minimum wage is almost double that of the wage in the USA. We certainly have lower violent crime, unless you live in downtown areas of very large cities. Also worked in several Florida cities (I literally hate Florida), Detroit, MI & Toledo, OH. Wouldn’t recommend living in any of those places. Eastern Ontario is reasonable, & it seems the farther east you go, the cheaper the cost of living. Although, finding a job may be an issue. But, the people in eastern Canada are the best you will find anywhere. Western Canada, even rural, is amazing if you love the outdoors, but can be pricey. I actually lived five years in the interior of BC. Loved it, but it is more remote and pricey. The province (BC) even controls the automobile insurance, which does not allow you another choice. I didn’t like that. The prairie provinces seem boring to me & get extremely cold in the winter. I currently live in central-eastern Ontario, reasonably close to several major cities, but far enough away to avoid the hassles of city life. Central/eastern Ontario is quite amazing with thousands of lakes, hiking trails & some skiing (nothing like the west, though, lol). I love it here. I am an avid hiker, XC skier, downhill skier, and just generally love being active outside. There is ample opportunity to start any type of tourist business as this area is well know as ‘cottage country’, and cater to wealthy people from the cities. Also, in the winter the tourists come for the snowmobiling which is also very popular in the northern parts of Ontario. This area is also ‘very artsy’ with hundreds of artisans selling their wares – everything from textile art to painters. The beauty of the natural environment is a draw for artists. I live on 9 acres and have organic gardens, hiking trails, & snowmobile trails on my property. I also own a small antique / design store (on my property). I sell everything from antiques, refurbished furniture, home accessories, handmade preserves, baked goods, homemade bread, organic garden produce, handmade linens, second hand high end clothing, garden decor, lighting …. you can sell anything to the tourists. I’m actually retired, and do this for fun. Not sure how easy immigration actually is. I’m told it is harder than getting into the USA as a professional (getting my green card was agonizing & expensive, & I know now I was better off staying in Canada). I think if you have money and want to start a business, permanent residency is easier. Good luck to you as I know the environment in the USA is currently unbearable. Trump has destroyed America as we know it; the USA will be a decade trying to dig out from his destruction. And cannabis is legal, if you are in to that. Best of luck to you.

Hello everyone…I was born and raised in Canada.. living in Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto, Calgary,Vancouver and even in Peace River (for about a year. Travelled across the from Ucolet to Halifax. Very fortunate. I have to admit the west coast was my favorite for many reasons. However, even 35 years ago $$$$. We moved to Houston 25 yrs ago for a six month work assignment, two babies in tow and have been here since. Two months after getting here, Oklahoma boming!! Well alot has happened over the years and still have stuck it out till now. I am retired now. Got US citizenship 3yrs ago and proud to recently vote on the side of democracy. As I am writing this 40 hrs. left till hopefully back to some sanity. Thinking time to time about going back to Canada but so sorry I just can’t do winter anymore.. definitely can do 3 months of summer there. Winter is great if you are kid. My sister in Canada is confined to a wheelchair and as you can imagine no fun moving around in winter. A little too hot in summer here prefer Hawaii weather year round but again $$$$ . Good luck to all those whom seek to live in Canada, do you research. I am really fortunate to still have that option of moving back. By the way, if you are a US citizen you can collect your SS living in Canada… health insurance is a whole different issue. ?

Sault Ste. Marie is not the third largest city in Ontario, but it is the third largest city in Northern Ontario. It is actually the 19th largest city in Ontario.

Sault Ste. Marie is the butthole of the north, unless you are a diehard hunter and fisherman there is very little to do and poor shopping opportunities, iffy healthcare as top notch doctors don’t want to be there. It is a backwards city with ridiculous taxes and gas prices, 6 month cold winters with lots of snow, and now it is being overrun with refugees.

I just want to leave a message to all retired Americans considering Canada that you’re far better off staying in the USA. Canada doesn’t just let anyone in. You can’t become a Canada resident when you’re already retired unless you have vast sums of money. You can buy a house there as an American, but even then you can only stay 6 months per year unless you get your residency, and you’re not allowed to work there.

You already get free healthcare (Medicare). There are plenty of cheap, safe places in the USA with cool weather. Maine has mild summers if you can’t stand the summer heat, and outside Portland and certain other towns near Massachusetts, it can be very cheap. There are also a lot of cheap homes in Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota… You will experience occasional summer heat, sometimes even extreme. America has tons of cheap real estate, just watch out for states with high real estate taxes. Here in Illinois, it’s not unheard of for real estate taxes to be more than your mortgage payments.

I’m a US citizen, a software developer in my 30s, and even I, with my relatively high-demand job, can’t just waltz into Canada. If I want to get hired there, the hiring company has to prove to the Canadian government that they can’t find a Canadian to do the job.

I got good grades in college. If I go back to school for a master’s in Canada, that is sort of a loophole and I can get a residency/work permit after I graduate.

My wife and I own a house in Kimberley BC which we bought in 2004. Now, after 17 years, we’re finally ready to move there and find I can’t stay more than 6 months (at a time? or per year?–it’s not clear). My wife is Canadian, I’m American. This was a surprise. We thought it wouldn’t be a problem since she’s a citizen. Now I’m thinking about selling the place rather than push the issue. It’s too bad, because I’d been dreaming of living there for so long. The house HAS appreciated quite a bit since we bought it, so that’s some consolation. Anyway, Americans–don’t get your hopes up.

Great list! I’d like to ask, could Sutton easily fit in this list of affordable places in Canada for living and travel? Because I got really interested in Sutton when I did find here some nice housing options for sale. I’m really considering it as a place to move to but I’m still trying to get a better idea about it in terms of affordability and lifestyle. Any information would be of great help, thanks!

Thank you so much for the interesting information! I am bilingual and I am looking for information and advice about the City where I can find a bilingual jobs and affordable apartment for rent!

Thank you all, Ben

Thanks for sharing this list of the most affordable cities in Canada to live in, I’ll add some of those located in Ontario to my list of places I’m considering moving to. Keswick is one of the top places on my list and I’m already looking at a specific residential property that I saw here. I’m definitely still keeping my options open though so thanks for this list!

I moved back to Brockville recently after 26 years. I have being well aware of the increase number of drug addicts and homelessness that never existed before. The Brockville psychiatric hospital was closed several years ago and now more than ever there are people with mental disabilities roaming the streets. There are several group homes here if you need a job in that field. I will be leaving this town very soon.

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The best places to visit in Canada from cosmopolitan cities to the Rockies

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

Experience the best of Canada with these top places to visit © Hero Images / Getty Images

Visitors to Canada are equally as wowed by the wildlife and wilderness as they are by the cultural and culinary offerings in the cities that speckle this sprawling nation.

Look for polar bears on the arctic tundra of Churchill or cruise Vancouver’s curvy coastline in a canoe while gawking at the city skyline. Feast on five-star fusion cuisine in Toronto, or take in a street-side jam session in Montréal. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to go in Canada. But you'll have to plan your trip ahead because this is the world’s second-largest country – you can’t see it all in just one go.

Best for diversity

A vibrant jumble of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Will you have dinner in Chinatown or Greektown? Five-star fusion or a peameal bacon sandwich? In Ontario ’s coolest city, designer shoes from Bloor-Yorkville are accessorized with tattoos in Queen West, while modern art galleries, theater par excellence, rocking band rooms, and hockey mania round out the megalopolis.

This is far and away Canada’s most diverse city, as well as its largest – about half of Toronto’s residents were born in another country.

Local tip : Snap a photo of the CN Tower  (one of the top spots to visit in Toronto ). For an added thrill: check out Edgewalk, where you can shuffle around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

The sawtooth, snow-topped mountains straddling the British Columbia — Alberta border inspire both awe and action. Five national parks – Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Jasper – offer countless opportunities to delve into the lush wilderness with ribbons of hiking trails , rushing whitewater and powdery ski slopes to satisfy travelers looking for mountain thrills. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter , but there is outdoor adventure aplenty during the summer months, too.

Planning tip: For a different perspective, take the train and experience the grandeur from the comfort of your seat: luminous lakes, jumbles of wildflowers and glistening glaciers glide by as the steel cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots .

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, floating right in Lake Huron’s midst, Manitoulin is a slowpoke place of beaches and summery cottages. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture pervades, and the island’s eight communities collaborate to offer local foods (wild rice, corn soup) and eco-adventures (canoeing, horseback riding, hiking). Powwows add drumming, dancing and storytelling to the mix for immersive experiences that connect you with the people and the land of the country that we now know as Canada.

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

Sea-to-sky beauty surrounds the laid-back, cocktail-loving metropolis of Vancouver . There are skiable mountains on the outskirts, beaches fringing the coast and Stanley Park ’s thick rainforest just steps from downtown’s gleaming skyscrapers.

For the best of both worlds, pick up provisions and a cold beer and picnic at one of the amazing city parks (it’s legal to drink alcohol at most of them during the summer). 

Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity along the way. Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is the filming location for many TV and film productions shot throughout the year.

Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches , Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer.

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut’s human population. It’s Canada’s largest island (the fifth biggest in the world) and the ideal place for an arctic safari where you can spot narwhals, belugas and bears in their natural habitat. The island’s crown jewel is Auyuittuq National Park – its name means “the land that never melts,” and indeed glaciers, fjords and vertiginous cliffs fill the eastern expanse. The park is a siren call for hardcore hikers and climbers – and more than a few polar bears.

Local tip: Baffin Island is also a center for Inuit art; studios for high-quality carving, printmaking and weaving can be found in many of the small towns.

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , beating with bohemian shops, wood-floored coffee bars and a past steeped in English tea culture since the 1840s.  British Columbia ’s capital city is full of charm, but it’s only the kick-off point to an island that has a bounty of natural wonders to explore.

Brooding Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes the West Coast Trail, where the wind-bashed ocean meets a mist-shrouded wilderness, and surfers line up for Tofino’s waves. With so many outdoor adventures to try, this is one of the best places in Canada for nature lovers.

Detour: Wandering foodies will want to head to the Cowichan Valley, which is studded with welcoming small farms and boutique wineries.

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

This 2010 Winter Olympics venue is one of the world’s largest, best-equipped and most popular ski resorts, and it’s only a 90-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is paradise for skiers of all levels.

Skiing may be Whistler ’s raison d’être, but summer visitors with their downhill mountain bikes and stand-up paddle-boards outnumber their ski-season equivalents, making the resort a year-round hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Adding more diversity, Whistler has recently developed a thriving arts and culture scene, with highlights like the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre taking the stage as equally appealing attractions to the famed slopes.

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital is more than 400 years old, and its stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town’s labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry.

The city is also home to Québec’s scenic highway, Rte 132. Circling the Gaspé Peninsula , this road winds past the sea and the mountains, as well as charming towns. More than 700,000 people drive it each summer. Of course, it has yet to approach the romantic popularity of Canada’s “honeymoon capital,” Niagara Falls, a region that draws more than 14 million annual visitors. But head for La Gaspésie instead, young lovers. Because if you’re on your honeymoon, you don’t need 14 million other people hanging around.

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

As Canada’s second-largest city and the country’s cultural heart,  Montréal  is a marvel for music lovers. From June to August, Montréalers get high on sunshine in parks, beaches, mountaintop forests and endless festivals. The steamy outdoors is more alive than ever with arts-loving visitors filling the streets (and the cool of performance spaces), while rooftop bars turn into parties. The best jazz-influenced musicians in the world play to equally jazzed spectators at the annual  Montréal International Jazz Festival , where there are over 500 performances and shows to enjoy (and countless are free). Nature is also never far away in Montréal where a network of cycling paths, waterways and islands crisscross the city. No wonder Montréalers grow up jogging, paddling canals and skating in the fresh air.

Planning tip:  Check out  Tourisme Montréal  for the latest live music events, big and small, throughout the city. 

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200km-long (124 miles) waterway – consisting of canals, rivers and lakes – connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest in wintry Ottawa, where a stretch of it becomes the Rideau Canal Skateway – the world's largest skating rink.

People swoosh by on the 7.8km (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, pausing for hot chocolate and scrumptious slabs of fried dough called beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). February’s Winterlude festival kicks it up a notch when townsfolk build massive ice sculptures.

Local tip: Once the canal thaws, it becomes a boater’s paradise, meaning you can appreciate it whatever time of year you visit.

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Driving through the flatlands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan turns up uninterrupted fields of golden wheat that stretch to the horizon, eventually melting into the sunshine. When the wind blows, the wheat sways like waves on the ocean, punctuated by the occasional grain elevator rising up like a tall ship.

Big skies mean big storms that drop like an anvil, visible on the skyline for miles. Far-flung towns include arty Winnipeg , boozy Moose Jaw and Mountie-filled Regina, interspersed with Ukrainian and Scandinavian villages.

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

Niagara Falls may be relatively short (it doesn’t even crack the top 500 worldwide for height), but when those great muscular bands of water arc over the precipice like liquid glass, roaring into the void below – and you sail toward it in a mist-shrouded boat – the falls never fail to impress.

While you’re there, extend your stay and head beyond the falls on a two-wheel biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route, or take a go at the Wildplay Zipline to the Falls , a pulse-pounding rush of a ride that offers unparalleled views of the falls below as you zoom through the sky.

Read on for the best experiences to be had in Canada.

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

It has lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery, yet Fundy is not your average Canadian bay. That’s because its unique geography results in the world’s most extreme tides, capable of reaching 16m (56ft) – about the height of a five-story building.

The tides stir up serious whale food, with krill and other plankton attracting fin, humpback and blue whales to feast, as well as endangered North Atlantic right whales, making a whale watch here an extraordinary must-do.

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

The first polar bear you see up close will take your breath away, and there’s no better place for an encounter than Churchill , Manitoba, which happens to be right on the bears’ migration path. From late September to early November, tundra vehicles head out in search of the razor-clawed beasts, sometimes getting you close enough to lock eyes with the beautiful bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

Dinosaur lovers get weak-kneed in dust-blown Drumheller , where paleontological civic pride runs high thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum , home to one of the planet's pre-eminent fossil collections. The world’s largest “dinosaur” is here, too – a giant fiberglass T-rex that visitors can climb and peer out of (through its mouth). Beyond the dino-hoopla, the area offers classic Badlands scenery and eerie, mushroom-like rock columns called hoodoos.

Planning tip: Follow the scenic driving loops; these take you past all the good stuff.

This article was first published Jul 11, 2021 and updated Apr 11, 2024.

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The most affordable Canadian cities to visit

Getting away doesn’t have to financially burden you. With careful consideration of affordable destinations, you can enjoy your holiday without having to pinch pennies. To help guide you with your plans, we’ve curated a list of affordable Canadian cities to visit in 2019.

Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.

Article content

Travelling is a huge financial commitment. From airfare and hotels, to food and entertainment, there’s much to budget for when you’re planning a vacation. Getting away doesn’t have to financially burden you. With careful consideration of affordable destinations, you can enjoy your holiday without having to pinch pennies.

To help guide you with your plans, we’ve curated a list of affordable Canadian cities to visit in 2019.

The most affordable Canadian cities to visit Back to video

Calgary, ab.

Cheapest Month to visit: November

Average cost of Hotel: $130

Home to the annual Calgary Stampede, with plenty of festivals, parks and other attractions, Calgary is a great place to visit any time of the year. With a large variety of low cost or free activities, you’ll have no problem sticking to your budget during your Calgary vacation. Explore the beauty surrounding Calgary with day trips to Banff, Aspen Crossing, Glacier Skywalk, Lake Louise and more!

Quebec City, QC

Cheapest Month to visit: April

Average cost of Hotel: $152

Save the cost of a plane ticket to Europe and opt for a trip to Quebec City instead! Chalk full of history and culture, Quebec City is a prime vacation destination for a romantic getaway or family retreat alike. From unbeatable museums to the breathtaking surrounding landscape there is much to do and see in Quebec City. For a quick day trip from Quebec City, spend an afternoon at a sugar shack to learn about maple syrup, partake in activities, and sample local delicacies for an authentic Quebecois experience.

Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear.

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Saint John, NB

Cheapest Month to visit: May

Average cost of Hotel: $123

If you’re looking to cut costs on your Saint John vacation, hit the outdoors and explore the stunning views and parks the city has to offer. Wander the Saint John City Market to experience the oldest market in North America. Try a walking trail in the Irving Nature Park to view seals bathing on rocks. Or sit back and witness the highest tides on earth in the Bay of Fundy. With so many natural attractions, you’ll have plenty to do without spending a cent!

Winnipeg, MB

Cheapest Month to visit: January

Average cost of Hotel: $151

  From museums to sporting events, there’s plenty to see and do in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Travelling in the summer? Spend the day at Assiniboine Park or walk through the gate of a Hudson Bay Company trading fort. Visiting during the winter months? Skate down one of Winnipeg’s numerous skating trails. Looking to save a buck or two on food? Check out Paterson GlobalFoods Institute for a healthy and affordable lunch. You’ll get a gourmet meal from student chefs for just $5-$10 a plate!

Niagara Falls, ON

Average cost of Hotel: $156

Niagara Falls draws a large number of tourists during the summer months from all over the world, driving up the prices of hotel packages making this vacation a huge expense. But in the winter months the city of Niagara Falls tourism falls with the temperature, dropping the average costs of accommodation and making great deals on websites such as Groupon. Although many of the outdoor activities around the falls are unavailable or unenjoyable, the hotel deals are hot and there are still plenty of events and activities to enjoy.

Edmonton, AB

Cheapest Month to visit: December

Average cost of Hotel: $140

Edmonton is full of museums, premier shopping, sports teams, festivals, events and so much more. If you’re traveling on a budget, Edmonton is a great place to visit with a large number of free or affordable activities, including a free tour of the Alberta Legislature Building or the one of a kind Neon Sign Museum . With an extensive public transit system which includes buses and light rail trains, consider skipping the car rental and saving some money by using public transit.  

Saskatoon, SK

Cheapest Month to visit: July

Average cost of Hotel: $117

Saskatoon may not automatically make your travel bucket-list, but with its friendly patrons, activities and natural beauty, it’s time to reconsider. The Riversdale District is full of walking trails and eclectic cafes, sure to connect you to the city and its charm. For an affordable paid tour, check out the Wanuskewin Heritage Park . Just 5 minutes from Saskatoon, and only $10 admission, visit the park to learn of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples.

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12 Cheapest Places To Travel In Canada If You Have 5 Days, 10 Days Or A Month Off

I think most of us know how lucky we are to live in Canada right now. With all of the things going on in the rest of the world it's good to sit back and admire all of the things that make this country so amazing. 

READ ALSO: 12 Cheapest Places To Travel To If You Have 5 Days, 10 Days Or A Month Off

The nature in this country is probably the #1 reason Canada beats out almost all other countries. If you go up north you'll find giant glaciers, mountains and polar bears. If you go out east you'll find coast lines like you've never see before. If you go out west you'll find beautiful beaches, stunning lakes and breathtaking national parks.

If you have some vacation time saved up, this is the perfect time to explore what our country has to offer if you never had the chance before. 

Places To Travel If you Have 5 Days Off

Places to travel if you have 10 days off, places to travel if you have a month off, for cheap places to travel, check the links below: .

12 Cheapest Places To Travel To If You Have 5 Days, 10 Days Or A Month Off

A Month-By-Month Guide To The Best Places To Travel In Canada, Eh!

The 17 Cheapest Travel Destinations For 2017

20 Insane Travel Destinations To Plan For 2017 If You’re Young, Broke, And Restless

For Places To Travel In Canada If You Have 5 Days Off, Click "NEXT"

1. muskoka lakes  .

Distance From Montreal: 7 hours

Muskoka is one of my favourite places to escape in the summertime. It's home to tons of big lakes and small lakes, with quaint towns in between. There's a reason there's a chair named after this place, the Muskoka chairs, because you'll be so relaxed here you won't want to leave.

Rent a cottage with your friends and spend your weekend canoeing, boating, roasting marshmallows on the campfire and swimming the days away!

2. Quebec City 

Distance From Montreal: 2 hours 48 mins

Being from Montreal, you've probably already been to Quebec City. But if you haven't it's definitely something everyone should experience at least once. It's colonial core is what attracts most people to this city. With cobble stone streets, the towering Chateau Frontenac Hotel, and cathedrals to explore this is the perfect destination for a quick 5-day trip.

3. Toronto, Ontario 

Distance From Montreal: 5 hours 25 mins

Chances are you've already been to Toronto, but it still deserves a spot on this list because it's Canada's largest, most bustling city. If you've already been you probably didn't get to see all the things you set out to because this city is just so large and expansive. But you should definitely go back and make a list because even with 5 whole days you'll feel crunched for time!

4. Niagra Falls 

Distance From Montreal: 6 hours 39 minutes

Niagra Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and it's pretty obvious why. These are the largest waterfalls you'll ever see and they're right here in our own country! Ride the maid of the mist to get the full experience, or hop over to the American side to see it from a new angle. Either way you'll love this quick vacation.

For Places To Travel In Canada If You Have 10 Days Off, Click "NEXT"

1. magdalen islands .

Distance From Montreal: 19 hours 20 mins

Can you even believe that these islands are actually part of Quebec? I couldn't when I first found out. It's just off the coast of Prince Edward Islands but they below to the province of Quebec. This small archipelago is the perfect place to travel if you love the outdoors. Bring your camping gear and camp out on the expansive beaches, kayak or canoe on the ocean, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery!

2. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Distance From Montreal: 14 hours 29 mins

The East coast is the perfect place to travel if you only have 10 days because if you really wanted to you could make it a road trip. If you're planning a vacation to Cape Breton Islands you should definitely hike cabot trail, explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park, or go on a whale watching tour!

3. Prince Edward Island 

Another East coast destination, PEI has a whole lot to offer in you in a 10 day trip. Check out some of their amazing beaches like Basin Head Provincial Park, Red Point Provincial Park and Cavendish Beach while you're there. Explore the quaint seaside towns of Victoria, Georgetown and Northport as well!

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia 

Distance From Montreal: 12 hours 17 mins

One of the coolest cities in the Maritimes, Halifax is a great place to go for your 10 day vacation this summer. Check out the classic Peggy's Cove to see the lighthouse against the sea, Fisherman's Cove for fresh seafood, and so many more outdoor activities.

For Places To Travel In Canada If You Have A Month Off, Click "NEXT"

1. british colombia .

Distance From Montreal: 47 hours

Cheapest Flight From Montreal: $497

British Colombia is a must-see place for every Canadian. Although it can be pretty expensive for us east-coasters/central Canadians it's still worth the trek out there, especially if you have an entire month to travel. They have so many amazing national parks to explore like Great Bear Rainforest to see the the mystical spirit bears, Yoho National Park to canoe on the emerald green lakes, and the Gwaii Haanas National Park to see the archeological ruins.

2. Alberta 

Distance From Montreal: 41 hours

Cheapest Flight From Montreal: $466

Alberta is another west-coast gem. Filled with sprawling mountains and bright blue lakes what else could you ask for on a month-long vacation? You have to visit Jasper National Park for amazing hiking and wildlife watching, the classic Moraine Lake with bright blue waters, and beautiful Banff.

3. Newfoundland and Labrador

Distance From Montreal: 27 hours

Cheapest Flight From Montreal: $386

The most amazing thing about Newfoundland and Labrador is their oceanside national parks and quaint towns. You must visit Gros Morne National Park for fjords and hiking, Torngat Mountains National Park to see polar bears and mountainside hiking, and you can visit St. Johns for colourful houses.

4. Yukon Territory 

Distance From Montreal: 61 hours

Cheapest Flight From Montreal: $731

The Yukon is definitely an underrated part of Canada. If you have a month off it's totally worth it to take a road trip around and even go up to Alaska afterwards. You should explore Kluane National Park, Miles Canyon Basalts, Dawson City while you're there!

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3 quebec spots were ranked among canada's top summer vacation destinations for 2024, 9 things to do in and around montreal that prove winter really is the coolest season, montreal ranked among the cheapest places to travel in 2024, 7 cheap flights from montreal for a spring getaway that won't make your wallet cry.

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10 Cheapest Places to Retire in Canada

Highly rated for quality of life, Canada offers affordable destinations for retirees.

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While finances are generally the primary consideration when it comes to making retirement decisions, a crucial question for individuals as they plan for the future is where to live. Many retirees choose to stay in their own communities, hoping to remain near relatives and friends. Others find they want to reduce living costs, downsize housing, seek a change in climate, or live in a place they enjoyed on a vacation — and perhaps even returned to several times. Some want to fulfill a dream to live by the sea or in a small town , and others prefer lively cities with plenty of cultural opportunities. 

That decision will face more than four million baby boomers in the U.S. who will turn 65 in 2024, a demographic landmark referred to as " Peak 65 ." The numbers are similar in Canada , where baby boomers represent about 25 percent of the population. Current data indicates that the overall cost of living is slightly lower in Canada than in the U.S., and the quality of life is high. And not all retirees head south for sunshine; many enjoy seasonal changes, winter sports, and all that Canada has to offer.

U.S. citizens considering a move north for their retirement will want to research visa and permanent residency options . Some may decide to spend part of the year in Canada, and a visitor visa, which is valid for six months, may work for them. Meanwhile, those planning to stay longer may want apply for permanent residency. 

U.S. citizens should be aware that Canada’s universal health care is available only to Canadian permanent residents and citizens. Since Medicare is generally not accepted outside of the U.S., a private medical insurance policy is advisable. Retirees may receive their social security payments while out of the country, and they must file U.S. tax returns annually. Professional advice is recommended as part of retirement planning, especially when considering life outside the U.S.

For this list of most affordable places to retire in Canada, we considered housing costs, health care, things to do, weather, lifestyle, and culture with the help of experts. We searched the 10 provinces where most of the country’s population lives. (Three territories north of the provinces have fewer than 131,000 residents.) While living costs vary, each province offers a variety of affordable cities and towns. Here are some low-cost options in the Great White North.

Québec City, Québec

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Located in eastern Canada on the St. Lawrence River, Québec City offers historic neighborhoods, winter and summer festivals, parks, and restaurants. Summers are mild, with temperatures averaging around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, while winters are cold, with temperatures as low as 10 degrees. The city is home to a large international expat community, according to Expat Exchange .

Québec City is known for high-quality health care and excellent hospitals. In terms of cost of living, with New York City as a comparison point, Numbeo finds overall prices 29 percent lower and rents about 76 percent lower.

Fredericton, New Brunswick

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Just off the Atlantic coast along the Wolastoq (St. John River), Fredericton is home to museums, historic sites, breweries, farmers markets, three universities, and a small town atmosphere. Realtor Rebecca Steeves described the city as perfect for nature lovers — New England-like, with forests and walkable trails. She added, “We are seeing a lot of cross-country migration in Fredericton. Seniors are attracted by the affordable home prices. They can sell a home in one of the other provinces, buy here for much less, and have money left to enjoy their retirement.”

Temperatures range from a high of 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer to as low as five degrees in the winter. Rent prices are about 75 percent lower than in New York City, and grocery prices are about 32 percent lower. According to Steeves, homes can be found in the $300,000 to $400,000 range. The province also offers high-quality services for seniors . 

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

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This historical city is located off Canada's eastern coast on Prince Edward Island (PEI) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Home to world-class restaurants, festivals, and artisan shops, Charlottetown is the capital of the province. PEI is the smallest of the provinces in Canada, and residents can get to one of its red-sand beaches within 15 minutes from anywhere on the island. 

According to Numbeo , rent costs are about 73 percent lower than in New York City, and restaurant prices are about 52 percent lower. Health care is convenient, according to limited data, and quality is average.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

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Halifax, capital of the province of Nova Scotia, is located in eastern Canada on the Atlantic Ocean. Residents enjoy four seasons, with July temperatures in the mid-70s and January offering lows in the teens. Excellent senior and health care facilities are available along with opportunities for an active lifestyle .

Overall consumer prices are approximately 47 percent lower than in New York City, while rent prices are 64 percent lower and groceries 29 percent lower.

West Kelowna, British Columbia

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Located on the shore of Okanagan Lake, West Kelowna offers beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and a rich history. According to retiree and longtime British Columbia resident, John MacNichol, “British Columbia has the best weather of all the provinces. Winter is not as cold, but we have skiing in Whistler, farms and wineries in Okanagan (where I live), and the beautiful city of Vancouver.” He added, “I grew up in St. Andrews by-the-Sea, a lovely town in New Brunswick — also a great place to retire — but we enjoy life in British Columbia.”

The city is considered safe, with a low crime rate, and Snappy Rates also commented on the area’s mild climate, beautiful lakes, parks, and outdoor activities. According to Numbeo , rents are about 63 percent lower than in New York City, and health care is excellent. 

Prince George, British Columbia

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Prince George has more than 100 parks and green spaces, along with rivers and five nearby ski areas. Home to the University of Northern British Columbia, the city offers a vibrant arts scene, too.

Rent prices are about 79 percent lower than in New York City, according to Numbeo . Health care is above average, and senior living facilities with various levels of care are available. Winters are cold, with January temperatures averaging 18 degrees Fahrenheit, and in July — the hottest month in Prince George — temperatures average 60 degrees.

Regina, Saskatchewan

With the lowest cost of living and most affordable housing out of all Canadian cities, Regina is located in south Saskatchewan. Winter temperatures drop into the teens, but summers are mild and pleasant, with weather in the high 70s in July and August. The city is home to University of Regina and a lively downtown as well as parks, hiking trails, and Last Mountain Lake for fishing and boating. 

Health care is highly rated according to Numbeo, and there are a variety of senior living facilities at a range of levels. Consumer prices , including rent, are 56 percent lower compared to New York City, rents are 78 percent lower, and groceries are 34 percent lower. 

Kingston, Ontario

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Located on the northeastern edge of Lake Ontario, where the St. Lawrence River and Rideau Canal meet, Kingston has restaurants, bars, breweries, and one of Ontario’s oldest public markets in its pedestrian-friendly downtown. According to data from GoBankingRates , Kingston’s quality of life is highly rated as “among the very best across all of Canada.” 

Kingston Health Sciences Centre is among several health care providers in the city. The city is notable for its access to health care through hospitals, retirement communities and other facilities.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

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The capital and largest city in Manitoba, Winnipeg is surrounded by lakes, forests, and prairies. Home to a variety of senior housing options, indoor and outdoor activities for seniors, and a wealth of cultural destinations, Winnipeg is an excellent place to retire. 

Consumer prices, including rent, are about 53 percent lower than in New York City; rents are 75 percent lower; and groceries are 32 percent lower, based on Numbeo 's data. Numbeo also gives Winnipeg excellent ratings for health care.

Cochrane, Alberta

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Located west of Calgary at an elevation of 3,891 feet, Cochrane is a fast growing community known for outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, and mountain biking. Canadian retiree Gordon Stewart has lived in Cochrane since 2008. “A lot of the fun of retiring is finding a place to live, like we did. There are so many gems in southwest Canada, many affordable, off-the-beaten-track towns.” He added, “We enjoy Cochrane — the mountain views, scenery, and people. It’s cold in the winter, but by May, we’re playing golf.” 

Data for nearby Calgary indicates excellent health care facilities and consumer prices , including rent, to be 47 percent lower than New York City. Meanwhile, rent prices are 67 percent lower.

Related Articles

9+ Least Expensive Places To Live In Canada (Expat Guide)

Categories Living Abroad

We have looked at the top cities to live in Canada and touring Canada in October , but what about the most affordable Canadian cities to live in?

You might not get a view of Niagara Falls from these cities but they are still going to be right up your alley in terms of cost-efficiency.

This is a list we have compiled with attention to detail and a good understanding of the local economics in these cities/towns.

Here is a look at the most affordable Canadian cities to live in.

Table of Contents

Cheapest Places To Live In Canada

Bécancour.

It’s time to start with this charming city nestled along the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec.

With a small population and a robust industrial layout, this is a city that’s designed to offer a simpler lifestyle to those who want to find a place in Quebec. The region is economically vibrant but continues to offer affordable pricing.

While it is still a far way away from the major downtown hub of Montreal, it is still a fascinating place to stay in. If you can find a job here, it’s a good place to live and quite affordable.

The average home price is approximately $206,000 here.

Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario)

As we make our way over to Ontario, it’s time to look at the gorgeous Sault Ste. Marie.

Among the locals, this is known for being a robust hockey town but it is also one of the bigger cities on this list without being too expensive.

When looking at affordable Canadian cities, it is essential to mention this one. It does have a growing population of 73,000+, but you can still find a good-priced home for around $238,000.

This is a good price for those who can find a job in the area.

Timmins (Ontario)

Timmins is another top-tier town for those who are looking for a tranquil place to spend their days.

We love Timmins because the people are welcoming, there are jobs within the mining setup, and it’s easy to have a good quality of life.

With the average house coming in at $212,000, you are going to find this to be a good option for those who want a reasonable deal. You are not going to be disappointed by it.

Cornwall (Ontario)

Cornwall is one of those Ontarian cities that get overlooked when they are still charming.

There is a quaint appeal to this region but it continues to offer economic prosperity for those who are enjoying the real estate market in the area right now.

You can get an average house for around $211,000 indicating there is still potential in the region for those who are willing to live here. It is quite affordable and you are also going to be close to Quebec.

Rimouski (Quebec)

Going back to the beautiful Quebec, it’s time to head to the heralded Rimouski.

We found this to be a hidden gem because it is not only an appealing place to live but it is also home to gorgeous natural areas that are hard to beat.

You are going to find this to be a budding place because of the jobs that are available in Rimouski. A lot of professionals are starting to come here because of the research facilities that are set up in the area. If you can find a job in one of those facilities, you will find the average property price to be reasonable too.

Rouyn-Noranda (Quebec)

Rouyn-Noranda is a wonderful town and is quite noticeable because of its location.

It’s one of the first towns you are going to get to see when coming out of Ontario depending on which side you’re on. This adds to its appeal for those who still want to be close to Ontario while having access to an affordable place to live.

It’s important to note that you are going to be in a smaller French town, so you are going to have to recognize the local culture associated with the town too. Anyone who can get a job in the mining sector will do well here.

Sept-Îles (Quebec)

Based on our research into the most affordable places to live in Canada, it is common for people to mention the beautiful Sept-Îles.

This is a charming town that has a smaller population and is far away from Ontario and Quebec City. It’s an ideal option for those who are okay with being far away from the major cities but still want to enjoy an affordable place to live.

You are going to find the deals here to be among the best for larger properties.

Quesnel (British Columbia)

British Columbia finds one spot on this list in the form of Quesnel.

Quesnel is a fascinating place to live in Canada because of its location and how it compares to some of the other regions on this side of Canada.

You can find a property for around $209,000 when you are looking in Quesnel and it is also one of the more picturesque places on this list. This is ideal for those who love being outdoors and don’t mind driving out to the major city hubs.

It is going to be quite a distance away from Vancouver but it will also allow you to find an affordable home.

Saint-Georges (Quebec)

Saint-Georges is one of those regions that is not only affordable but is also trending in the right direction.

You are going to be in Beauce if you are looking to move to Saint-Georges and it’s an appealing place as long as you find a job. Anyone who is working in the industrial sector can start looking for employment here and likely find it too.

We recommend this place for those who want affordability and that is their main requirement in Quebec.

Final Thoughts

These are the least expensive cities to live in Canada.

You can’t go wrong with any of these as they are robust, growing regions that are still affordable.

You can also read about the Schitt’s Creek locations in Canada , visiting the Parc Omega cabins in Canada , and going to Halifax .

Amanda Harper is a travel enthusiast with 10+ years of traveling experience across the planet. Her passion for writing and travel makes her a walking bibliography on modern-day tourism.

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20 Cheapest Cities to Live in Canada (2024)

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With the current state of the economy, we don’t blame you if you’re on the hunt for the cheapest places to live in Canada. With the high cost of living in most of Canada, finding the best place to live in the most affordable province and city can be challenging.

Living in a city with a low cost of living can help you stretch your budget and save money over time. The Globe and Mail recently published their top 100 most liveable cities list . Among the published list were the top cities based on housing affordability. Coupled with the most recent data from the Rentals.ca report , we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 cheapest cities to rent and own.

Key Highlights

• Many of the most affordable cities in Canada are located in Quebec. 
• The most affordable cities to purchase a home are almost 4x less expensive than the national average home price.  
• The most affordable cities to rent a home are nearly 2x cheaper than the national average rental price.

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10 Best Canadian Cities for Housing Affordability 

1. thetford mines, quebec.

Thetford Mines is a city in south-central Quebec located on the Becancour River in the Appalachian Mountains. With a population of around 26,000, it is best known as the Asbestos capital of Canada. Though the mines are now closed, Thetford Mines was one of the world’s largest asbestos mining and production centres in the 20th century. 

Average home price: $172,189

Average household income: $75,971

2. Edmunston, New Brunswick

Located near the Madawaska and Saint John Rivers, the city was once a small logging settlement that has grown into a cultural hub of local cuisine, craft breweries and theatre. With a population of approximately 17,000, the area is close to the Quebec and U.S. borders.  Located close to the northeastern section of the Appalachian Mountains, the area has many outdoor activities, such as skiing, mountain biking, and camping.  

Average home price: $177,839

Average household income: $78,251

3. Rivière-du-Loup, Quebec

With a population of approximately 21,000, this small city is in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. The city is a traditional stopping point between Quebec City, the Maritimes, and the Gaspé Peninsula and is a prime tourist destination for whale-watching on the St. Lawrence River. 

Average home price: $276,874

Average household income: $88,059

4. Tracadie, New Brunswick

Tracadie is an Acadian community with around 16,000 residents. The city, while remote, is a well-known tourist destination that comes alive in the summer months when the area’s beaches attract tourists from neighbouring Quebec. The area is prime for outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking and camping. 

Average home price: $173,111

Average household income: $76,142

5. Sainte-Marie, Quebec

Considered one of the most beautiful towns in Canada, the quiet community of Sainte-Marie is home to roughly 14,000 people. Only 45 minutes from Quebec City, it’s a perfect town for people who want to live a peaceful life without much of a commute to a major urban centre. Located on the shores of the Chaudière River, Sainte-Marie is a stunning little town with plenty of charm.

Average home price: $274,031

Average household income: $97,128

6. Montmagny, Quebec

Located 45 minutes outside Quebec City, Montmagny has a population of around 11,000 and is a hub for manufacturing and production facilities. The city is aptly situated for those who want to live in a small town with city amenities nearby. The city is Canada’s Snow Goose Capital and hosts the festival of Snow Geese each year in October. 

Average home price: $246,630

Average household income: 76,566

7. Miramichi, New Brunswick

With a population of around 18,000, Miramichi is a small city known for being friendly and hospitable. The Miramichi River is one of Canada’s most famous salmon rivers, making it the ideal location for fishing. The proximity to nature makes this city the perfect location for those in agriculture or forestry trades.  

Average home price: $193,621

Average household income: $85,720

8. Saint-Georges, Quebec

Saint-Georges is a French-speaking community located around 3 hours from Montreal. The area is home to approximately 35,000 people. Saint-Georges is affordable and has plenty of economic potential as the province’s largest city in the Beauce region. The city is an important manufacturing centre providing opportunities in this industry for those looking for work. 

Average home price: $231,095

Average household income: $86,987

9. Bathurst, New Brunswick

With a population of close to 12,000, Bathurst has a close-knit small-town community. The city is the 4th largest metropolitan area in New Brunswick and is the major centre for shopping and services for surrounding areas. The city becomes the Snowmobile Capital of Atlantic Canada in winter, with 1,000km of groomed trails. 

Average home price: $179,592

Average household income: $74,337

10. Rimouski, Quebec

Rimouski, located roughly 3 hours from Quebec, is home to nearly 50,000 people and is famed for its marine research and conservation innovation. Rimouski is slowly becoming a hub for science and engineering in the region. 

Average home price: $282,364

Average household income: $88,205

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10 best canadian cities for rental market affordability, 1. saskatoon, saskatchewan.

Saskatoon serves as the cultural and economic hub of central Saskatchewan. With a population of approximately 273,000, the city is a major transit hub served by national railroads, provincial highways, and an international airport. The city is home to the University of Saskatchewan, making it an affordable city for students. 

Average monthly rent: $1,109

Average household income: $103,445

2. Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina, with a population of around 229,000 residents, is the second-largest city in Saskatchewan. The area is one of the fastest-growing major cities with a strong manufacturing, agriculture and food, tourism, mining and oil and gas economy. 

Average monthly rent: $1,191

Average household income: $104,401

3. Fort McMurray, Alberta

With a population of approximately 67,000, Fort McMurray is one of the most affordable cities in Canada in terms of cost of living. The city’s economy centres around the oil and gas industry, with opportunities in the energy industry to enjoy a low cost of living and higher salaries. 

Average monthly rent: $1,226

Average household income: $189,458

4. Red Deer, Alberta

Red Deer, located halfway between Calgary and Edmonton, is known for its oil, cattle, and agricultural industries. Most of its approximately 103,000 population resides in urban areas, but the city lacks a university, so it might not be ideal for students.

Average monthly rent: $1,249

Average household income: $160,842

5. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg is the capital city of Manitoba, boasting a population of around 797,000. The size of the city leaves the door open for many employment opportunities and has a rapidly growing IT industry. The city has a vibrant arts, culture, and culinary scene. Winnipeg was ranked the third best place to live on the Globe and Mail’s 100 most liveable cities list. 

Average monthly rent: $1,282

Average household income: $107,532

6. Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton, Alberta’s capital city, has an approximate population of 981,000. Known as the festival city, Edmonton hosts over 50 unique festivals each year. The city has a strong technology sector and is quickly becoming a leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

Average monthly rent: $1,284

Average household income: $121,600

7. Quebec City, Quebec

Québec City is a city in Canada with a population of around 558,000. It is the capital of the province of Québec and is known for being one of the safest cities in the country. The oldest part of the city is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you live in a European city, you’d do well to rent an apartment in Old Quebec. 

Average monthly rent: $1,288

Average household income: $96,301

8. Windsor, Ontario

Windsor, with a population of approximately 234,000, is located in southwestern Ontario and is in close proximity to Detroit. The city is known as the Automobile Capital of Canada and is a major manufacturing epicentre, with many of its residents working in the auto industry. 

Average monthly rent: $1,545

Average household income: $85,624

9. Abbotsford, British Columbia

With a population of around 150,000, Abbotsford is one of British Columbia’s most affordable major cities. Located on the banks of the Fraser River, the area is known as the Farming Capital of Canada and is the perfect blend of rural and urban living. With approximately 72% of the land located on an Agricultural Land Reserve, Agriculture is a significant part of the local economy. 

Average monthly rent: $1,594

Average household income: $88,291

10. Laval, Quebec

Laval, with a population of around 437,000, is the perfect combination of a family-friendly suburb with all the amenities of city life. The city is a short 30-minute commute to Montreal, making it ideally located for those who want to work in Montreal but prefer more affordable living. 

Average monthly rent: $1,601

Average household income: $95,154

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most affordable city with the cheapest taxes.

Alberta has the lowest tax rate in Canada, so if you want to live in an area with low personal taxes, Fort McMurray, Red Deer and Edmonton are the best cities.

What is the most affordable province in Canada?

Quebec and New Brunswick are Canada’s two most affordable provinces for purchasing a home.

Which city is more likely to maintain its low cost of living?

Abbotsford, on our list, is the best city to rent in if you want to keep your cost of living low. This city has some of Canada’s lowest property tax rates, making it the ideal place to live if you eventually want to become a homeowner.

Final Thoughts

Many of the most affordable cities in Canada are located outside of major cities, but some affordable cities remain. With many diverse communities, you can still find an affordable area that matches your lifestyle and budget. 

Contact a mortgage expert today if you’re ready to start your homeownership journey in a budget-friendly city.

Find a better rate, and we’ll match it, beat it, or  give you $500 *.

*Conditions Apply

With nesto, it’s stress-free

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in this series Canada Living

• Best Places to Live in Canada in 2024 next read
• 20 Cheapest Cities to Live in Canada currently reading
• Top 15 Safest Cities in Canada (2024) next read

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The 40 Cheapest Places to Live in Canada

By Arthur Dubois | Published on 20 Jul 2023

Where are the cheapest places to live in Canada? Generally speaking, it is expensive to live in large cities. Smaller cities tend to be a more economical choice, even if you commute a short distance to work.  Smaller cities have a lot to offer.

Since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, housing prices have increased substantially. However, you can still find affordable housing in Canada whether you want to rent or buy property. It is more expensive to live closer to the west coast and the Prairie Provinces. Your least costly options tend to be in Quebec and Ontario, though there are options in other parts of Canada as well.

Keep in mind that cheap is also relative. The cost of living may commiserate with the average income in a province. So, while it may cost more to live in Alberta, your salary will also most likely be higher than it would be in other provinces for the same job. While Saskatchewan’s minimum wage is $11.81, the minimum wage in Alberta is $15.00.With that in mind, take a look at the list below for the 40 cheapest places to live in Canada.

1. Thetford Mines, Quebec

This small city was once one of the world’s largest regions for asbestos production, now it’s one of the cheapest places to live. As the town grew, the boundaries expanded. It merged with Robertsonville, Black Lake, Thetford-Sud, and Pontbriand. The last asbestos mine closed in 2012. Canada banned the sale of asbestos in 2018.

To live here, you must love cold-weather activities. Winter can be cold with fair amounts of rain and snow. Summer has fair weather throughout. Snowmobiling and skiing are popular winter activities.

It is also one of the top maple syrup-producing areas. In the spring, you will have the opportunity to experience close community connections during outings to sugar camps. There are parties for making the syrup and enjoying taffy made in the snow. If you are more of a summer weather person, you will enjoy the many lakes and rivers in the area. Summer months are filled with festivals and outdoor concerts.

Thetford Mines has a regional airport making it convenient to come and go. It also features two outstanding research centers. Businesses in the region export goods worldwide, generating employment in many fields as the labour market expands. Twelve of Canada’s richest Canadians call Quebec home .

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $500

Cheapest house we found: $59, 900

Average salary: $61, 670

2. Saguenay, Quebec

Despite being one of the cheapest places to live, many key sectors in Saguenay keep the area alive and thriving. Because of all the rivers in the area, hydroelectric power is one of the large economic sectors.  Saguenay is known as the Valley of Aluminum because it produces 1/3 of all aluminum produced in Canada. Agrifood is another booming industry due to the experienced producers and the region’s unique climate.

The region is also known for tourism, medical research, and forestry. There are many reasons one might like to set roots in Saguenay. It is close to nature, has a vibrant cultural life, and is affordable. The average salary is $63,214 a year. According to a report released by Statistics Canada in 2015, for those living in Saguenay, Quebec, average life satisfaction was 8.2/10.

It is a safe city where you have the advantages of living in a larger city without the hustle and bustle. In under an hour, you can reach Montreal by plane, and Quebec City is only a two-hour drive away. Getting from one place to the next is easy as Saguenay has an airport, a four-lane divided highway, and a reliable rail system that leads to a deep-water seaport.  

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $480

Cheapest house we found: $65,000

Average salary: $63,214

3. Shawinigan, Quebec

Shawinigan is cold and snowy in the winter and warm and humid in the summer. It is a great place to live if you enjoy outdoor adventure. Every year there is a prestigious marathon canoe race called the Classique international de canots de la Mauricie, which has taken place since 1934. They also host a celebration with a bonfire and performances by local musicians.

If you need to find a job when you get there, the Laurentide Paper Company is still active in the district. Shawinigan is also home to a sizeable hydroelectric complex near the Saint-Maurice River. The city has a population of around 49,000. It is only a two-hour drive from Quebec City.

Shawinigan is attempting to revitalize its economy by becoming a smart city. The smart city project began in 2014 by introducing innovative technologies and new services to make life more convenient for the citizens of Shawinigan. In July 2021, the Quebec government and the government of Canada granted Shawinigan $4.99 million to assist with a $10 million project to build a new center for melting scrap aluminum. This helped to create more jobs in the community, and residents enjoy it as on of the cheapest places to live in Canada.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $430

Cheapest house we found: $89,500

4. Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Located in Southern Saskatchewan, Moose Jaw isn’t just one of the cheapest places to love, it’s also one of Canada’s most notorious cities. For decades, Moose Jaw has been called The Friendly City. That being said, the activity there was not always friendly. What is Moose Jaw notorious for? One of the world’s most notable gangsters, Al Capone, spent much of his time hiding out underground in the tunnels of Moose Jaw, now a big tourism draw.  

The name Moose Jaw, also rooted in history, comes from the Cree word meaning “a warm place by the river.” If you have ever heard of The Snowbirds, you may have heard of Moose Jaw. The Canadian Forces Snowbirds Air Demonstration Squadron is based out of the military base in Moose Jaw.

The current population of Moose Jaw is just under 36,000 residents. The key economic sectors are agriculture, potash mining, NATO Flying Training, transportation, tourism, and healthcare. There are two potash solution mines located close to Moose Jaw. The downtown area features tunnels, numerous coffee shops, and many unique shops. Expedia.ca has listed Moose Jaw as number three on a list of “10 Coolest Downtowns in Canada,” and is on of Canada’s cheapest places to live.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $550

Cheapest house we found: $62,900

Average salary: $61,571

5. Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina is the capital city of Saskatchewan, and its name means Queen in Latin. It was named after Queen Victoria, who was the British Monarch at the time. Before that, it was referred to as Pile O’ Bones because many hunters hunted in the area and left the bones behind. Regina’s economy relies on natural gas and potash. Agriculture is another significant part of life in and around the city of Regina. 

With over 215,000 people, Regina is a large metropolis with much to offer while still being one of the cheapest places to live. The University of Regina offers over 200 academic programs. It is known for its experimental learning and research. Along with the University of Regina, the city is also home to the First Nations University of Canada, which provides First-Nations-centered academic programs such as Indigenous Business and Public Administration, Indigenous Education, and Indigenous Health, along with many other programs.

Regina is a bustling city with many attractions, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police training center and museum. Being a larger city, they also have a stadium for sporting events and concerts. Regina is home to the Canadian Football League (CFL) team, the Saskatchewan Roughriders. You better wear green on game day!

Cheapest house we found: $95,000

Average salary: $65,600

6. Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec

The cost of living is quite affordable, making Rouyn-Noranda one of the cheapest places to live. One of the primary economic industries in Rouyn-Noranda is Glencore Copper Canada which operates the Home smelter. It is the world’s largest processor of electronic scarp containing copper and other precious metals. Other industries that contribute to the local economy are lumber and dairy.  

Around 96% of the population are French speakers. You may want to brush up on your French skills if you are not a native speaker and plan to relocate to Rouyn-Noranda. The population is around 42,000 people, and it is located in western Quebec.

Rouyn-Noranda is a green city with a long-term economic vision. They want to remain a sustainable community that leaves a small footprint as they continue to grow. The climate is cold and temperate, with a significant amount of rain throughout the year. If you plan to move here, take your umbrella and galoshes. July is the warmest month but does not frequently see temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $560

Cheapest house we found: $85,000

7. Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City offers an excellent quality of life for its residents and people new to the area, as well as being on of Canada’s cheapest places to live. The cost of living is competitive, and tuition fees are affordable. Quebec City has several junior colleges which aim to bridge secondary school and University studies. Laval University is also located in Quebec City.

The predominant language is French but many Quebec City people are bilingual and speak English too. Being the second-largest economic hub in the province, Quebec City has a thriving economy.  Quebec City has many sectors which require workers. Some of these are:

• Health and nutrition
• Biopharmaceuticals
• IT and interactive entertainment
• Manufacturing
• Metal Fabrication
• Financial services

Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure rich in history and beauty. Once you are settled, you will want to explore the only walled city north of Mexico. Be sure to explore the Chateau Frontenac, Dufferin Terrace, Petit-Champlain, Place Royale, and the Plains of Abraham.

There are four distinct seasons in Quebec City. The summers are warm and sometimes hot, while winters are cold, windy, and snowy. Spring and fall are short seasons with temperatures varying. It is common to experience an extended summer in Quebec.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $650

Cheapest house we found: $99,000

Average salary: $60,239

8. St. John’s, Newfoundland

St. John’s is the capital of Newfoundland and is one of the oldest cities in North America. This is where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless message in 1901. Because of its history and culture, it is a popular tourist destination and is one of the cheapest places to live in Canada.  The climate is humid. St. John’s gets a lot of rain throughout the year, and it can also be quite foggy.  

St. John’s used to rely on fishing as its primary industry. After the industry’s collapse in the 1990s, they started relying on oil and gas beneath the ocean. ExxonMobil Canada has its headquarters in St. John’s, and many other companies also have regional operations in the city. Chevron, Husky Energy, Suncor Energy, and Statoil are some of the major companies you will find there. Hibernia, Terra Nova, and White Rose have three significant offshore oil developments. Some of Canada’s richest Canadians live in Atlantic Canada.

One of the major attractions of the city is Signal Hill. There, you will find colourful wooden houses along the cliff-sides. The hill is where Cabot Tower is located. The castle-like building commemorates the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s voyage to Newfoundland. 

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $795

Cheapest house we found: $69,900

Average salary: $63,396

9. Baie-Comeau, Quebec

The city of Baie-Comeau is located 420 kilometres northeast of Quebec City. The city, located on the shores of the Saint Lawrence River, has about 20,000 people between two urban areas: Baie-Comeau proper and Hauterive. The city is the birthplace of former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and is one of Canada’s cheapest places to live.

The economy relies on the fact that the region is heavily forested. It serves as the center for the pulp and paper industry. Along with hydroelectricity and an aluminum plant, the paper industry provides many jobs in Baie-Comeau. There is a large elevator there owned by Cargill, which is used to transfer grain from Great Lakes boats to ships.

The weather tends to be cool in the summer, with daily highs below 20 degrees Celsius. This results from the cold Labrador current that cools the Gulf of St. Lawrence. There also tends to be high snowfalls during the winter months.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $700

Cheapest house we found: $94,900

10. Lévis, Quebec

Lévis is a quick ferry ride from Quebec City. It is located opposite the south shore of the St. Lawrence River. As well as a ferry linking Old Quebec with Old Lévis, two bridges connect western Lévis with Quebec City. Though it is a smaller city, there are many opportunities for the residents of Lévis and is one of the cheapest places to live in Canada. Valero’s Jean-Gaulin refinery is located in the city. It is one of the largest refineries in eastern Canada.

Also headquartered in the city are the Desjardins Group and the subsidiary, Desjardins Financial Security. Other major companies include Davie Shipbuilding and Frito-Lay. Along with these major companies, the city also has thriving agriculture, and business research and development center. With a cold and temperate climate, you will see lots of rain in the spring and summer months and snow in the fall and winter.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $605

Cheapest house we found: $119,000

Average salary: $63,759

11. Prince Albert, Saskatchewan

Prince Albert is the third-largest city in Saskatchewan and another one of Canada’s cheapest places to live. It is known as The Gateway to the North, and is located in the centre of the province. It is the last major city along the route to the province’s resources located in the north. A short distance away is Prince Albert National Park, where you will find lakes, forests, and a lot of wildlife. Winter lasts five months of the year, and it is pretty cold. The summer months can see high temperatures though the average is around 23 degrees Celsius.

Because of its proximity to many lakes and forest areas, tourism is one of the major industries that keep the city thriving. Agriculture, forestry, mining, and retail are other industries in the area. The Star-Orion South Diamond Project is also near the city, providing opportunities for employment in the diamond mining sector. The Diefenbaker Bridge connects the north and south shore in Prince Albert. It is the only bridge nearby that connects northern and southern Saskatchewan.  

Cheapest house we found: $74,900

12. Trois-Rivières, Quebec

In Trois-Rivières, housing costs are about 75% lower than the national average, making it one of the cheapest places to live. The lower cost of real estate makes it a great place to set down roots on a smaller budget. Overall, the cost of living is about 29% lower than the national average. Approximately 140,400 people call Trois-Rivières home. It is halfway between Montreal and Quebec City.  

Trois-Rivières has three pulp and paper mills. They are also building their economy by establishing technology parks. Marmen Incorporated manufactures wind turbine towers and employs 1,000 people in the area. Other industries are metal transformation, electronics, thermoplastics, and cabinet making.

Winters are long and cold with a lot of snow. Summers are usually pretty warm, which is excellent for outdoor cultural events throughout the warmer months. Boulevard des Forges is several blocks long, where you will see century-old buildings, cafes, restaurants, clubs, and shops. The area will frequently be closed to traffic to allow for the festivals and events. The Universite du Quebec a Trois Rivers is located in the city. There is also a satellite campus of the University of Montreal for the faculty of Medicine.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $535

Cheapest house we found: $139,900

Average salary: $31,200

13. Sherbrooke, Quebec

Sherbrooke has about 161,000 people making it the sixth-largest city in the province of Quebec, and another one of the cheapest places to live. For those who enjoy cultural activities, there are a host of festivals and events throughout the year. The city has art galleries, museums, and a symphony orchestra.

Sherbrooke is home to eight academic institutions with approximately 40,000 students attending classes. Around 11,000 people work in Sherbrooke as professors, teachers, and researchers. University tuition fees are among the lowest in North America, making it an excellent place for students to study since living costs are also low.

The region is full of mountains, lakes, and rivers. If you love the outdoors, you will find lots to do. There is even a ski hill in the city located in a downtown park. There are 108 parks and green spaces in the municipality. You can access hundreds of mountain trails in under 30 minutes, and you are also close to water if you enjoy nautical sports.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $639

Average salary: $61,670

14. Lloydminster, Saskatchewan

Known as Canada’s border city, Lloydminster is located partially in Saskatchewan and partially in Alberta.  Just over 31,000 people are living between the two provinces in Lloydminster. A higher percentage of the population lives on the Alberta side of the border.

Winters in Lloydminster are cold, dry, and long, while summers are short, warm, and sometimes wet. Precipitation in the area is generally relatively low, seeing less rain and snow than in other parts of the province. The coldest temperature ever recorded in the city was -50 degrees Celsius.  

The petroleum industry drives the economy in the area, but it remains one of the cheapest places to live. Lloydminster is known as the Heavy Oil Capital of the World. Husky Energy Oil Refinery is located in the City of Lloydminster. In nearby Wilton, there is a Husky Energy Heavy Oil Upgrader. Both facilities employ many residents.

Agriculture is also vital to the community. Area farmers tend to grow wheat, barley, and canola. Crops account for over 30% of the total acreage in the area. Lloydminster has one of Canada’s largest canola crushing facilities. It is also home to Canada’s largest biodiesel plants.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $724

Cheapest house we found: $99,900

Average salary: $69,602

15. Victoriaville, Quebec

Victoriaville produces hardwood products, including furniture, hockey sticks, and caskets. There is also a large Lactantia factory located in Victoriaville, where they produce butter, cheese, and other dairy products. The Lactantia factory is a significant employer in the area. Victoriaville is one of Canada’s cheapest places to live.

Victoriaville has a population of about 42,000. You will find mountains, lakes, and numerous cycling trails in the area. Victoriaville is a great place to live with a sense of community and many cultural activities to enjoy.

Cheapest house we found: $174,900

16. Longueuil, Quebec

Longueuil has about 240,000 people living in the city. It is a commuter town as many people drive to Montreal for work. Though many people commute, there are still jobs available in Longueuil. One of the cheapest places to live still offers lots of opportunity.

The aerospace industry is vital. Longueuil is home to Pratt & Whitney Canada and Heroux-Deltek. There are over 5,500 employees between the two companies that work in aerospace. The headquarters of the Canadian Space Agency is also located in Longueuil. You will also find the major companies of Agropur, Innergex Renewable Energy, and the Canadian subsidiary of Hasbro. The home furnishing company, Artemano Canada, has a warehouse and distribution center in the city.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $635

Cheapest house we found: $129,000

Average salary: $65,733

17. Surrey, British Columbia

Surrey is a suburban city with the province’s second-highest population, yet one of the cheapest places to live.  The economy in Surrey is bustling. Agriculture, health care, and technology are significant proponents of the city’s economic wellbeing.  

Surrey is also home to two major post-secondary institutions. Simon Fraser University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University are both located in Surrey. Surrey has many attractions and annual events that are sure to keep you busy. WinterFest, a day of live music, sports, food, and fireworks, attracts around 15,000 people every February.

Average salary: $73,006

18. New Glasgow, Nova Scotia

New Glasgow, situated in Pictou County, has around 9,000 people. Many Scottish immigrants came to New Glasgow on the ship Hector. The major employers in the area are the Aberdeen Hospital, a Michelin tire plant in Granton, and the headquarters of Sobeys, the national grocery chain located in nearby Stellarton.

There are several shops and services in the downtown area. New life was brought to the downtown core through a revitalization project that saw the addition of a theatre and upgrades to the riverfront area. It is rainy and snowy in the winter months, and the summer months are humid.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $850

Cheapest house we found: $80,000

Average salary: $60,222

19. Saint John, New Brunswick

Located on the Bay of Fundy, Saint John is a seaport town and another one of Canada’s cheapest places to live. Much of the economy relies on its proximity to the water. Shipping, fishing, and shipbuilding are essential to the economy in Saint John. Saint John has one of the largest dry docks in the world used for shipbuilding. As shipbuilding declined, Saint John started to rely more heavily on tourism to boost the area’s economic status.

Brewers have also provided an economic boost in the area. Simon Jones, The Oland’s, and James Ready are all brewers that operate in the area. Moosehead Breweries, established in 1867 , is one of the major breweries and is Canada’s only nationally distributed independent brewery. There are many craft brewers in the area.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $775

Cheapest house we found: $99,000

Average salary: $61,536

20. Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec

Situated in southwestern Quebec, Saint-Hyacinthe has a population of around 55,000. The city is aptly nicknamed “the agriculture technopolis of Canada.” The economy relies on agriculture, and Saint-Hyacinthe has many research institutions dedicated to agricultural research.

The city also hosts agriculture-related events such as fairs and expositions. Other boons to the economy are Intact Financial and two organ building and restoration companies. In partnership with Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe has the only veterinary medicine faculty located in Quebec.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $475

Cheapest house we found: $188,000

Average salary: $64,262

21. Medicine Hat, Alberta

Medicine Hat is along the South Saskatchewan River in southeast Alberta. In 2016, Medicine Hat was the 6th largest city in Alberta, with 63,230 people. Medicine Hat is known for its natural gas fields and is often called The Gas City. The economy is built on oil and gas as well as agriculture. Despite the strong economy, Medicin Hat is among Canada’s cheapest places to live.

There will be plenty of job opportunities in Medicine Hat in the next decade. Much of the workforce there are over the age of 55, and as they retire, new workers will be needed to keep the economy thriving. New economic activities are also being pursued in the area. The community focuses on developing value-added agriculture, renewable energy, and manufacturing. Several of Canada’s richest Canadians live in Alberta.

Cheapest house we found: $149,900

Average salary: $67,407

22. Alma, Quebec

Alma is about 175 kilometres north of Quebec City. In 1962, four villages merged to form Alma. The current population is just under 40,000 residents. 98.5% of the people there speak French as a first language.  The cost of living in Alma is 13% lower than the provincial average.

Alma is an important industrial center. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Price paper mill, a hydroelectric power station, and the Alcan aluminum smelting plant were constructed. All of them are active and contribute to the area’s economic stability.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $615

Cheapest house we found: $159,000

23. Red Deer, Alberta

Located in central Alberta, Red Deer is about halfway between the major cities of Edmonton and Calgary. In 2016, the population sat at just over 100,000. The area has rolling hills and is built around oil, agriculture, and cattle farming. The surrounding region is a center for petrochemical production.  

Red Deer is one of the cheapest places to live with many attractions, including the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. Figure skating Olympic gold medalist Jamie Sale hails from Red Deer. Other prominent figures from the area include sportscaster Ron MacLean and many NHL players.

Cheapest house we found: $152,000

24. Moncton, New Brunswick

With a population of just under 72,000, Moncton is the largest urban center in New Brunswick.  The economy, twice devastated, has come back strong in the area. When the shipbuilding industry collapsed in the 1860s, Moncton suffered. It also suffered after the closure of the CNR locomotive shops in the 1980s. But again, it came back.  

The Latin motto of the city means “I rise again.” Moncton was reborn as a railway town, and the economy is stable and diverse. The primary economy is transportation, distribution, and retail. At the same time, education, health care, finance, information technology, and insurance sectors are also strong contributors.

Cheapest house we found: $104,900

Average salary: $60,771

25. Drummondville, Quebec

Drummondville, with a population of 68,601 as of 2016, is situated in the center of Quebec.  The cost of living in Drummondville is about 10% less than other places in Quebec, making it one of the cheapest places to live. Though many things cost the same, such as groceries, transportation, and utilities, the cost of housing is lower.  

Via Rail offers train service to Montreal and Quebec City. Four to five trains a day run through Drummondville, so you may want to look for housing away from the tracks. The summers tend to be warm and rainy, while winters are cold and snowy.  

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $490

Cheapest house we found: $195,000

26. Fort Saint John, British Columbia

Fort Saint John was established as a trading post in the late 1700s and is the oldest European-established settlement in British Columbia today. Fort Saint John is the largest city in the British Columbia Peace Region. The Alaska Highway runs through Fort Saint John, making it a central transportation hub.

The economy revolves primarily around agriculture. Oil and gas and forestry are also crucial to the economy. Fort Saint John exports a lot of wood to the United States. Fort Saint John has cold winters and warm summers. It is one of British Columbia’s sunniest cities.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $675

Cheapest house we found: $159,900

Average salary: $68,451

27. Granby, Quebec

Granby is east of Montreal in southwestern Quebec. In 2016, the population was 66,222. Granby is most famous for its zoo and its landmark Fountain of Lac Boivin.

Granby is a commercial zone and a regional center of lumber, dairy products, and textiles. Tourism also contributes to the economy of Granby. Each year there is a Mascot Festival that draws people to the area. Granby also has one of Canada’s largest dirt oval racing tracks where professional racing events are held.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $645

Cheapest house we found: $169,900

28. Grande Prairie, Alberta

Grande Prairie, Alberta, was one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities from 2001-2006. Grande Prairie is known as Swan City because of its proximity to the migration route and summer nesting area of swans. The Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum is just west of Grande Prairie, where there have been many paleontology discoveries.

Grande Prairie has a diversified economy. Oil and gas, agriculture, forestry, and food services play an essential role. International Paper is one of the city’s largest employers.

Grande Prairie College offers many programs in academia and trades. The college is also home to a theatre that hosts many events, from stand-up comedy shows to dance recitals to guest speakers.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $750

Cheapest house we found: $148,700

29. Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, is home to 1,491,000 residents as of 2021. It is an important economic center and an integral part of the oil and gas industry. Edmonton is the birthplace of several major companies, including Booster Juice, Earl’s, and Fountain Tire.  It’s also one of the cheapest places to live in Canada.

The West Edmonton Mall is the 10th largest mall globally and the largest mall in North America. The mall features an indoor theme park with a roller coaster and a giant waterslide park. There are many post-secondary institutions in Edmonton. The University of Alberta, MacEwan University, and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology are three primary learning facilities.

Cheapest house we found: $167,500

Average salary: $71,874

30. Dieppe, New Brunswick

Dieppe is a small city of just over 25 000. Dieppe was designated as a city in 2003. Dieppe is home to the largest single-building shopping center in Atlantic Canada, Champlain Place. 

Dieppe has a dynamic business community founded on respect for the environment. Dieppe serves as a distribution hub for goods and services for the Atlantic region and the Northeastern United States. The labor force is highly qualified and largely bilingual. Speaking both English and French is a huge advantage if you are living in this region.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $845

Cheapest house we found: $134,900

31. Sorel-Tracy, Quebec

Located in southwestern Quebec, Sorel-Tracy is home to around 35,000 people. There is a college in Sorel-Tracy as well as two cathedrals. Sorel-Tracy also has a museum and nature center and many parks and green spaces.

The primary industries in Sorel-Tracy are steelmaking, titanium smelting, ship repairing, and the manufacture of plastics, synthetic fibers, clothing, and furniture. The town serves as a center for farming. It is also a seaport and wintering port for river steamships, dredges, and other watercraft.

Cheapest house we found: $209,000

32. Conception Bay, Newfoundland

Conception Bay has a population of around 26,200. Conception Bay contains several islands and covers an area of 1,295 square kilometres. Fishing and lobster trapping are familiar sights in the area.

The area also relies heavily on tourism to support the economy. The College of the North Atlantic is located in the Conception Bay area. The college offers many different programs including Accelerated Software Development, Baking and Pastry Arts, Carpentry, and Early Childhood Education.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $800

Average salary: $61,950

33. Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec

Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu is about 40 kilometres southeast of Montreal. The population sits at around 98,000. The primary industry is the manufacturing of textiles, wood products, sporting equipment, and mental transformation. There are a variety of locally-owned shops and restaurants in the downtown area.

The city is also home to an Area Support Unit of the Canadian Forces. It is an establishment to recruit and train for the Canadian Forces. The Royal Military College Saint-Jean provides a one-year training program to prepare people for the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston, Ontario.  

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $685

Cheapest house we found: $179,000

34. Magog, Quebec

Magog was a textile manufacturing town for many generations. The main textile plant is still there but not as active as it used to be. The primary production is pillows.

Magog is a resort area that caters to tourists. The downtown area has many boutiques and art galleries as well as restaurants. There are activities throughout the year, from cultural events to sporting events. The Parc de la Baie-de-Magog features walking paths, a beautiful beach, and a boat launch.

Cheapest house we found: $219,000

35. Rimouski, Quebec

Rimouski has a population of around 49,00 and is the site of a notable university. Rimouski has several marine research centers as well. The maritime sector is also vital to the community. The Institut Maritime du Quebec offers exclusively marine-related programs of study.

The largest employer in Rimouski is the regional hospital with over 2,200 employees. The hospital serves patients all over the region. Rimouski has cold, snowy winters and warm, wet summers.

36. Windsor, Ontario

Windsor, in southwestern Ontario, is the southernmost city in Canada. The economy consists of manufacturing, tourism, education, and government services.  The economy grows as Windsor has gained companies involved in pharmaceuticals, alternative energy, insurance, and internet and software. The Windsor Salt Mine also employs many residents. Ontario is home to many of Canada’s richest Canadians.

The city is home to the headquarters of FCA Canada, a primary automobile manufacturing center. The FCA Canada minivan assembly plant, two Ford Motor Company engine plants, and several automotive parts manufacturers are located in Windsor.  

Tourism is also essential to the economy. Caesars Windsor is one of the largest casinos in Canada and employs many people in the area. The casino brings many visitors from the United States.

Cheapest house we found: $189,900

Average salary: $68,689

37. Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Sault Ste. Marie is close to the Canada-US border. A little over 73,000 people reside in Sault Ste. Marie. Algoma Steel employs over 3,500 individuals.

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is another major employer. With a corporate office on the waterfront, the OLG has about 900 employees. The OLG is the fourth-largest employer coming after Algoma Steel, Sault Area Hospital, and the call center industry.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $950

Cheapest house we found: $125,500

Average salary: $66,885

38. Timmins, Ontario

Timmins is the fourth largest city in northeastern Ontario. Natural resources in the area keep the economy alive. The economy is supported by lumbering and mining gold, zinc, copper, nickel, and silver .

Timmins has two post-secondary institutions. Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology and College Boreal are in Timmins. Timmins also has several tourist attractions, including The Timmins Museum and National Exhibition Centre, Cedar Meadows Wilderness Tours, and Kamiskotia Snow Resort. Tourists come from all over the world to take advantage of the multitude of snowmobile trails in the area.

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $900

Cheapest house we found: $145,000

39. Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec

This city in southwestern Quebec has around 42,000 people living in it. Since 1938, the city has hosted the Valleyfield Regattas. It is an international hydroplane competition. Powerboats compete and reach speeds of up to 225 km/h. The event attracts over 130,00 visitors each year.

Many attractions bring people to the area. The local museum provides information on the economic and cultural history of the area. The Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Cecilia, one of the largest churches in the country, was built in 1934-1935 and is also located in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield.

Cheapest house we found: $199,000

40. Gatineau, Quebec

Gatineau, a city in western Quebec, is home to over 265,000 people. Gatineau has two of the region’s major hospitals and several provincial colleges. Most jobs are with the government, but several people are also employed in the construction and service industries  

Several federal government departments have their main offices in Gatineau. Along with government jobs, Gatineau is the location of the Superior Court of the District of Gatineau, which employs many people. 

Cheapest one-bedroom rental we found: $720

Cheapest house we found: $199,900

Average salary: $66,845

Arthur Dubois

35 Cheapest Places to Live in Canada (2024): Lowest is $1,300/Month

Canada is often in the top 10 of those “best countries to live in the world” lists.

Thankfully, we aren’t in the top 10 of the priciest countries in the world, as Canada hovers between the 15th – 30th most expensive country to live in at any given time.

I’ve lived in many different cities in Canada and worldwide and have seen how drastically different living costs can be from one place to another.

This article lists the cheapest places to live in Canada. Some of the results will surprise you!

Median Income by Province

Before we head into the cheapest place to live in Canada discussion, let’s see how provinces line up based on the median income . The income below is the median of Canadian families and unattached individuals combined. Here is the latest data provided by Stats Canada :

For reference, the national median income = $62,900

• Related Reading: Net Worth By Age In Canada: How Do You Stack Up?

The Cheapest Places In Canada To Live In

Canada has over 1,100 cities and towns spread throughout its ten provinces. If you want to save money, one of the best things that you can do for your wallet is to spend some time living in a city where the cost of living and expenses are low.

Below, I’ve ranked the cheapest cities to live in Canada so that you can see for yourself.

35. Niagara Falls, Ontario

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,578
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,360
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $100
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $305

Niagara Falls, a famous tourist attraction, is also one of the cheapest cities in the country to live in. Tourism is the bread and butter of the city, and most of the 82,184 population is associated with the service industry.

The city used to be home to many hydroelectric power producers, but they went away in the 70s and 80s.

The city had to lean toward tourism to provide employment for the population of the city. They also incorporated gambling into the mix, which attracted a lot of tourists. Apart from utilities, the city is substantially cheaper compared to Toronto.

34. Moncton, New Brunswick

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,403
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,202
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $95
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $220

Moncton has a population of about 85,000 and serves as a commercial hub for the Maritime provinces. A significant portion of its workforce is in the retail, healthcare, and logistics sectors.

It’s often regarded as a city of contrasts, combining urban life with the serenity of natural landscapes like Centennial Park. Housing is affordable, and the cost of living is generally low, making it attractive for newcomers.

Moncton is also home to Magnetic Hill , an area of the town where optical illusions in the landscape create the illusion that water is flowing in the opposite direction. This attraction brings in a fair amount of tourists, and there are parks and even a small zoo located around these hills.

33. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,400
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,270
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $87
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $202

With a small population of close to 36,000, Charlottetown is the capital city of Prince Edward Island. Its economy is primarily driven by the public sector, healthcare, and tourism.

If you enjoy maritime culture and the idea of living somewhere with vibrant scenic beauty, Charlottetown is definitely worth looking into. It offers a quaint, mid-sized, brick-style downtown that’s positioned right on the water by the marinas.

A local favourite is to eat fish and chips, grab a drink, and watch the sunset over the water.

Overall, Charlottetown retains a quaint, small-town charm while offering amenities like affordable housing and utilities. It’s a great blend of urban and rural lifestyles, making it ideal for anybody looking for a balanced lifestyle.

32. Thunder Bay, Ontario

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,310
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,225
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $63
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $275

With a population of around 110,000, Thunder Bay is the largest city in Northwestern Ontario. Nearly half of its residents work in the healthcare, education, and service industries.

Despite being a hub for these sectors, the city hasn’t lost its roots in forestry and manufacturing. Affordable housing and low-cost groceries make the city a go-to for budget-conscious families. Nature lovers will also find a haven here with over 100 parks and numerous hiking trails.

31. Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,287
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,585
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $70
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $236

Like other towns and cities in Saskatchewan, Moose Jaw is relatively affordable (especially when compared to the Toronto Metro Area). Moose Jaw has a small population of just under 34,000 individuals, which makes it a small, quiet town.

Moose Jaw is best known for being home to NATO’s world-class flight training school. It also serves as the home base for Canada’s Snowbirds, the famous aerobatic flight squad that’s been known to rival the USA’s Blue Angels.

While the city is mostly known for its military presence, it also boasts a local casino as well as an advanced geothermal spa. Both of these attractions, along with the Snowbirdstraining performances, bring in a fair amount of local tourism.

30. Sault Ste. Marie, Quebec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,221
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,291
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $253

Sault Ste. Marie is home to approximately 73,000 people and is a gateway between Canada and the United States via the St. Marys River. The town’s key industries include steel manufacturing, technology, and healthcare.

The city also has a campus for Algoma University, which offers specialization programs and degrees in arts, cooking, and other trades. Living expenses, especially housing, are markedly low, making it a great place for both young professionals and families.

29. Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,156
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,208
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $55
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $187

Rouyn-Noranda, Québec, has a growing population of just over 43,000 Canadians. This small city is best known for its mining and refining operations, as copper and gold are Rouyn-Noranda’s top exports. The region also features large amounts of farmland and is home to multiple dairy farms.

If you’re looking for a bustling city, Rouyn-Noranda probably isn’t the right place to live in. The city centre is relatively small, and there aren’t many local events or attractions. However, if you’re looking for somewhere calm and quiet, then this could be just the spot for you.

28. Shawinigan, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,150
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,644
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $85
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $128

If you’re looking for a small city with ample access to the outdoors and lots of local events, then Shawinigan, Québec is definitely worth consideration. It currently has a small population of just under 50,000 residents, which makes it relatively small compared to other Québecois cities.

It’s positioned right by the Saint-Maurice River, which is one of the main tourist attractions of the city. Kayaking, boating, fishing, and other watersports are the primary source of entertainment in the warm summer months.

It’s also the birthplace of Jean Chretien, who is the former Prime Minister of Canada.

It’s about a two-hour drive west of Québec City and is positioned just north of Trois-Rivières. Despite the city’s small size, its central location makes it a great place to settle down. The cost of living is steadily rising, thanks to the growing young population.

There is a wide range of activities available to residents, though. There are museums, national parks, and a vibrant city centre where locals can congregate and socialize at pubs, restaurants, and local parks.

27. Victoriaville, Québec

• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,468
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $101

Victoriaville, Québec, has a current population of just over 45,000 people and is located in the centre of the province.

The region is best known for its accessibility to beautiful local parks, hiking trails, and scenic highways. It’s a great place to drive through, enjoy some fun in the outdoors, and have a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Victoriaville was once known for being a major industrial hub that produced the textile and lumber industries. Although small lumber mills and textile factories are still present in Victoriaville, the city has since become home to a number of other industrial factories.

The cost of living is pretty average compared to other cities in Québec, and it’s a fairly safe city to reside in, featuring a low crime index.

26. Lethbridge, Alberta

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $1,008
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,125
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $82.50
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $276

Lethbridge has a population of about 92,729, and it’s the transportation, industrial, and financial leader of Southern Alberta. About 50% of the population is associated with hospitality, retail, healthcare, and the education sector, which is quite a contrast to its agricultural and industrial heritage.

However, the major sector in the city is still agriculture.

The small city has over 130 parks and other major attractions like Lethbridge Viaduct, the continent’s highest and longest steel trestle bridge.

25. Laval, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $998
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,100

Laval is the largest suburb of Montreal and the 13th most populous city in the country, with over 437,413 people living in it.

The average price for a home in Laval is just over $709,000 , which is slightly above the national average home price of $662,437. Despite this, rental rates in the city are still quite affordable, and the average rent for a single-bedroom apartment in the city is just a monthly cost of $1,100.

The economy in the city is driven by the retail, industrial, pharmaceutical, and technology sectors. The city has four major industrial parks, each with its individual collection of industries and businesses.

Prominent employers in the city include SAP, Intact, and the University of Montreal. It’s also a relatively very safe city to live in.

24. Nanaimo, British Columbia

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $983
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,559
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $214

Nanaimo, also known as the harbour city, is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island across from the west coast of British Columbia. Aboriginal people still make up about 8.4% of the 104,836 inhabitants of the city.

It had a coal-driven economy, which was augmented by forestry in the 60s. Currently, the most prominent employer is the provincial government.

Even apart from the monthly rent, it’s a very cheap city to live in. It also has the main campus of Vancouver Island University, which attracts a lot of international students.

23. Edmonton, Alberta

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $961
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,204
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $90
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $239

Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and the second-most populous city (1,519,000+ people). It’s home to the sixth-best university in the country, i.e., the University of Alberta (ranked 136 in the world), which is also one of the largest employers in the region. Thanks to its rich heritage and cultural festivals, the city is nicknamed the festival city of Canada.

The city is home to major oil and gas reserves, some of the largest in the world. Naturally, petrochemical industries in the city are some of the most prominent employers. It’s also the regional financial centre. Despite a lot of employment opportunities and a decent-sized population, the city is very cheap to live in.

22. Prince George, British Columbia

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $927
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,300
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $80

Despite just a population of 84,809, it’s one of the largest cities in northern BC. The economy of the city is driven mostly by the service industry, which means there are some good job opportunities here.

The local administration has invested nearly $100 million in infrastructure. The city traditionally relied upon forestry for most of the revenue generation.

It’s also one of the 15 most dangerous cities in the country, with a CSI score through the roof. Despite its small population, it’s home to the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), the 29th-best university in the country.  

21. Halifax, Nova Scotia

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $920
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,576
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $165

Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia and houses a population of about 417,000. The city acts as a major economic centre in eastern Canada and has a generous allocation of both government services and private businesses. Most of the city’s population is made up of natives.

Major industries in the city include agriculture, mining, fishing, and forestry. It’s also home to the 11th best university in the country, i.e., Dalhousie University. If you frequently eat out, you will find Halifax significantly cheaper than Toronto, though not so much for groceries. Childcare and transportation are also cheaper. 

20. Surrey, British Columbia

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $906
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,694
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $160

With a population of about 568,000, Surrey is the second most populated city in the province. It’s mainly an urban area but also houses a decent portion of agricultural and rural areas.

There are six communities in the city. The majority of the population is made up of minority ethnicities, with South Asians forming the largest piece of the pie.

The city is a major industrial hub in the province, as well as a major logistics centre point in the region, which means jobs are relatively easy to come by.

19. London, Ontario

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $895
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,618
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $175

Apart from the name, London doesn’t share a lot with the capital of the UK. It’s the regional centre of healthcare and education, and the two largest employers in the city are Western University and TD Canada trust. The population of the city is over 515,000

It had a manufacturing-focused economy before 2009, but now it’s more oriented toward IT and research. Healthcare research – a major economic driving factor in the region, mostly comes under the scope of the eighth-best university in the country, i.e., Western University.

18. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,183
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $283

Saskatoon is the largest city in the province of Saskatchewan. About 330,674 people live in the city. It’s also considered one of the sunniest cities in the country and has a lot of bridges. The city houses a decent number of aboriginal inhabitants (First nation) that have been in the city for about 6,000 years.

Despite being the coffee capital of the country, the bulk of the city’s economy rests upon wheat. Two other pillars of the city’s economy are Potash and Oil. Out of these two,

Potash is more important since about two-thirds of the world’s recoverable potash reserves are in the city. The corporate headquarters of the world’s largest Potash company, Nutrien, are also in Saskatoon.

17. Winnipeg, Manitoba

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $885
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,054
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $75
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $181

Winnipeg, the capital and the largest city in the province, boasts a population of 705,244, which is the 7th largest in the country. The city remains covered in snow for about one-third of the year, but it also gets quite hot in the summers.

About half the population is employed in the trade, manufacturing, educational and healthcare sector, and about 14% in the public sector.

The city’s name is partly the inspiration for the famous character Winnie the Pooh. It also has the longest skating rink in the world.

16. Windsor, Ontario

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $883
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,294
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $79
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $184

Windsor is known as the automotive capital of the country. It’s home to FCA Canada, and also has two Ford company engine plants. The other major sectors in the city are tourism, education, and government services. Windsor has a population of 233,763.

It’s home to one of the largest distilleries in North America (JP Wiser) and about 180 parks. As the most southern city in the country, it’s literally five minutes away from Detroit – another automotive city, or at least it used to be. 

15. Montreal, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $882
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,380
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $109

The most populous city in Québec is home to over 1.7 million people. Most of the people living in Montreal have European roots, primarily French and Italian. Downtown Montreal is also known as the “indoor city,” and it is the largest underground complex in the world.

Montreal has the second-largest economy among Canadian cities. Major industries in the city include electronic goods, aerospace, pharmaceutical, and telecom.

It’s also the province’s major entertainment and media centre. It’s also home to the fifth-best university in the country (University of Montreal), and the corporate headquarters of two of the big five banks: Bank of Montreal and Royal Bank of Canada.

14. Baie-Comeau, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $873
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $934
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $190

Baie-Comeau is a small town in Québec, located on the shore of the Saint Lawrence River. It has a very small population of just under 27,000 Canadians, which makes it one of Québec’s smallest villages.

The town’s economy is primarily based around its paper mill, which was originally one of the main suppliers of the United States’ paper, The Chicago Tribune . Today, there are still multiple lumber mills in operation that supply the paper mill.

As far as local attractions go, there aren’t that many. However, there are lots of hiking trails and outdoor parks for those who enjoy an afternoon out in the woods.

If you’re into water sports, then you’ll also enjoy the beautiful bay positioned along the Saint Lawrence River, where the current is slow and accommodating to small kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft.

The population of Baie-Comeau isn’t as “young” as other cities in Québec. This is due to the fact that there are no major universities here. Many of the younger residents move to Montreal to attend university and find higher-paying jobs.

The upside of this is that the cost of living is very low, which is great for digital nomads and remote workers.

13. Kingston, Ontario

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $867
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,474
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $187.50

The “Limestone” city situated at the eastern end of Lake Ontario, is home to 123,798 people. It shares its name with the capital city of Jamaica, and weirdly enough, it was briefly one of the first capitals of the United Canadas. The city has a strong military history.

Most important employers in the city are public sector institutions: healthcare, public education, government, and tourism. It’s substantially cheaper than Toronto in terms of restaurants, transportation, and leisure activities, though childcare and utilities in the city are unusually expensive.

12. Thetford Mines, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $862
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $938
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $65
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $153

As the name implies, Thetford Mines was originally a mining town. Despite its small size, Thetford Mines was responsible for turning Canada into one of the largest asbestos-producing countries in the entire world.

Asbestos was commonly used in construction and building materials throughout the 20th Century, which turned the small city into a powerhouse of industry.

Given the decline of that particular material, though, Thetford Mines is no longer an asbestos-producing city. Instead, the city has become more of a residential area. It’s home to lots of apartments and affordable housing and has a vibrant town centre, along with some shopping centres.

While the city is no longer a major mining hub, it’s become a destination for those seeking affordable housing and low-profile living. For the most part, it’s a quiet town. If you want to see some action, though, Montreal is just a three-hour drive away, and Trois-Rivières is just over an hour away!

11. Regina, Saskatchewan

• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $920
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $237

Regina is the capital city of Saskatchewan and home to over 215,106 people. Like the larger city of Saskatoon, Regina’s economy and most of the jobs also revolve around Potash, oil, and natural gas.

Some of the major employers are 3S health services, Access communications, and Cornerstone credit union.

Though tourism isn’t the main contributor to the city’s economy, the city has various parks and attractions. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most dangerous cities in the country.

10. Red Deer, Alberta

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $861
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $948
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $72
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $256

Red Deer has a population of just 108,564. It’s a major hub of oil, cattle, and agriculture in the region.

Most of the population lives in the urban areas of the city. It doesn’t have a university, and many of the students who stay in the city have to make do with Red Deer College, which is the largest post-secondary institution in the city.

Despite being home to just over 100 K people, Red Deer has a high crime index. It’s still one of the top-ten most dangerous cities in the country (it used to be the sixth most dangerous).

9. Kelowna, British Columbia

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $856
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,731
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $130

Kelowna is named after the word for Grizzly bear in Okanagan. It’s the third-largest metropolitan area in the region, with a population of 153,148, which is rapidly growing. The service industry is the largest employer in the city.

Tourists come for boating, golf, hiking, and biking in summer, and winter traffic is dominated by skiing and snowboarding. It’s also famous for its vineyards. 

Average salaries in the city are on par with large metropolitans like Toronto, but the cost of living is significantly cheaper. According to Maclean’s Crime Severity Index (CSI), Kelowna, unfortunately also has one of the higher crime rates in the country.

8. Quebec City, Quebec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $835
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $942
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $92

Quebec City has a population of about 705,103, and it’s the capital city of Quebec. In addition to being an affordable city also considered one of the safest cities in the country, especially among such heavily populated cities. A part of the city (the oldest) is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

Major employment sectors in the city are defence, local services, public administration, and tourism. Manufacturing only makes up about 10% of the jobs.

7. Kitchener, Ontario

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $819
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $1,642
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $98
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $198

Kitchener is the twin city of Waterloo and home to 233,222 people. It was called Berlin up until 1916. It has one of the strongest German heritage among the cities in the Waterloo region.

It has the eighth-best university in the country (University of Waterloo). Kitchener also hosts the largest music event in Ontario, the KOI music festival.

The city’s economy is driven mostly by manufacturing. Major employers in the city include Research In Motion, Toyota Manufacturing, Manulife, and Sunlife Financial.

• Not sure if you can afford these prices? Learn some ways on how to make money online in Canada .

6. New Glasgow, Nova Scotia

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $795
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $800
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $87.50

New Glasgow is one of the smallest towns in Nova Scotia, with a population of just over 9,000 people. It’s a small riverfront town located on the East River banks of the Pictou. In recent years, it’s become a popular retirement destination, thanks to its marinas, quiet life, and quaint town centre.

Despite its small size, New Glasgow features a growing town centre that offers plenty of local restaurants, antique shops, and other small businesses. If you enjoy the great outdoors, then you’ll also find plenty of activities in the deeply-wooded regions surrounding New Glasgow.

Historically, New Glasgow is known for being an industrial hub and is home to a large Michelin tire factory. It also features a large Wal-Mart Supercentre. Today, it’s mostly home to retirees, factory workers, and local business owners.

If you’re into the arts and culture, you’ll enjoy the revitalized town centre as well as the Glasgow Square Theatre, which features Canadian theatrical performances and hosts concerts year-round.

The cost of living is very affordable, which makes this an excellent town to live in if you want to save money. The only downside is that New Glasgow is pretty far away from larger cities and industrial hubs.

5. Sherbrooke, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $788
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $613
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $151

One of the cheapest cities to live in Canada is the city of Sherbrooke, home to about 161,323 people. It’s an educational powerhouse in the region, and the University of Sherbrooke is the largest employer in the city. It’s very well located and ideally connected by major railways and highways.

As one of the cheapest cities in the country, its prices present a striking contrast to Toronto. Rent, property prices, childcare, even utilities cost a mere fraction of what they do in Toronto. Plus, it’s relatively very safe, which adds to its charm.

4. Saguenay, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $756
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $500
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $118

If you’re looking for a beautiful, quaint area to live in in Québec where the cost of living is lower than the national average, then you can’t go wrong with Saguenay. The small city boasts some of Québec’s most iconic villages that feature original French architecture, small streets, and lots of local, family-owned businesses.

The city is currently home to just over 146,000 residents. The traffic isn’t too bad, and there are just enough people to keep things lively and interesting. As a non-tourist city, most of the people you’ll meet here are full-time residents.

Saguenay also scores very high in regard to safety ratings, so it’s a great place to raise a family. Given the inexpensive cost of rent, it’s also a good place for young professionals (especially those who work remotely) to live and save money.

House prices typically range between $200,000 and $400,000, depending on the size and type of house .

It rests in the northern region of Québec and is about a three-hour drive north of Québec City. The only downside of this small town is how far away it is from larger cities. However, if you’re looking for something quiet, then this might be the perfect place for you!

3. Saint John, New Brunswick

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $698
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $873

The small city of Saint John boasts a population of 69,895 and is the oldest incorporated city in the country. It’s the second-most populous city in the province. The economy traditionally relied quite heavily on the shipbuilding industry, one of the world’s largest (and oldest).

Now, the city is focused on IT, tourism, and educational institutions. The city has a decent industrial heritage, with facilities like the country’s largest oil refinery and dock. But the economic trend is shifting.

2. Lloydminster, Saskatchewan

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $695
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $750
• Average Cost of a Meal for 2 People: $68
• Basic Utilities For 85m2 Space: $227

Lloydminster is best known for being a “border town” that sits on the edge of both Saskatchewan and Alberta. It’s a fairly rural area and doesn’t feature a large city centre, shopping malls, or other attractions that you’ll find in some of Canada’s larger cities.

The population is currently just over 20,000 and has been on the decline for several years now as younger community members flock to the larger cities in search of better jobs and education.

Given the rural location of Lloydminster, though, it’s a great place to save money on the cost of living. The average cost of a single-room rental is right around $750, which is less than half of what you’ll pay in larger cities.

Because of this, Lloydminster has become a popular retirement destination. It has a slightly older population compared to other Saskatchewan towns. The upside of this is that it’s a very safe town to live in. Not a lot goes on here, so there’s little to worry about in regard to crime.

The biggest local attraction in Lloydminster is the Gold Horse Casino. If you’re not into gambling, you’ll also find several local parks that offer disc golf, watersports, and nature trails.

1. Trois-Rivières, Québec

• Average Monthly Expenses for a Single Person (without rent): $670
• Average Monthly Cost of 1-Bedroom in City Centre: $560

If you’re a fan of the arts, then Trois-Rivières is a destination worth considering! It’s about a two-hour drive Northeast of Montreal and is about two hours directly north of Sherbrooke. It is perhaps the cheapest city in Canada to live in, with rock-bottom living costs.

The city’s historic district is home to some of Québec’s best traditional theatres, art galleries, and historic homes. If you’re into architecture, then you’ll really appreciate the traditional French village style of the downtown historic district as well.

Trois-Rivières currently has a growing population of over 140,000 residents. There are several notable bridges across the local waterways, which offer scenic views (especially during the sunset). Local photographers and landscape painters can often be found by the water during Québec’s warmer months.

That being said, there are also lots of local art museums in the city centre that feature Québecois art. The city may not have a strong industrial culture, but it’s a great place for young artists, remote workers, and those who are looking for the perfect combination of a growing, forward-thinking city that features quaint historical aspects.

I hope this list of the cheapest cities to live in Canada will help you in your quest for affordable living.

If you aren’t able to move away from big (and expensive) metropolitans, you may want to adopt some of these frugal living habits to lower the cost of your living.

Check Out These Posts:

22 thoughts on “35 Cheapest Places to Live in Canada (2024): Lowest is $1,300/Month”

We will be moving to Toronto sometime in August /September and this website is so good and so easy to read. I have saved it and will be reading more about investing money. Keep up the goods work.

Thank you for the kind words!

Why wouldn’t you include territories? Are they not part of Canada? Are there no cheap places to live there?

The Northwest Territories is missing as a province of Canada.

Hi Kim, I just included the provinces, not the territories of Canada in that section.

But why not! There are houses in NWT, Yukon, and Nunavut too, and they are part of Canada as well

because it isn’t a province, nor is the Yukon or Nunavut

It doesn’t mean there aren’t houses there or that its not part of Canada. Why not include territories?

The pic representing Lethbridge is actually Calgary, AB not Lethbridge, AB.

Hey Bob, thanks for the heads up, I changed it to a Lethbridge pic now!

I have yet to find a cost comparison site that mentions different tax rates. For example, Ontario and BC start at just over 5%. I was looking at NB because of the lower cost of housing but their provincial taxes start at 9.64, their sales tax is 15% and they have, I believe, the highest property tax rates in the country. Quebec is the worst for provincial income tax as they start at 15%. Without comparing these critical cost of living factors, sites like this are useless.

How did Nanaimo even make this list? Current 1 BDRM rentals are average 1850 / month. Housing, is a huge part of affordability but those numbers seem super low…

Yes, I’ll need to update this article again soon, rents have been out of control lately in Canada.

lolol dam i was like i need to take a visit … then i saw your post 🙁

A lot of the info for Windsor is incorrect, our population is well over 300k and growing because of spill down from Toronto. Not to mention the houses crisis means you’re renting here for AT LEAST 1200 a month for a tiny dirty place or paying up to 180k over asking price for a house.

You might want to update your list and take Kingston off of it, with the recent boom in Torontonians moving to Kingston, we have a less than %1 vacancy which has shot the price of single dwellings up to almost $2000 for an individual, and $3000 plus utilities for anything with an extra room. Good luck purchasing a home as well, the average house is listed at over half a million dollars for a Semi with them selling 100-150 thousand dollars over asking price daily.

Please spell British Columbia with a “u” and not an “o”. It makes your research look unreliable and questionable when you repeatedly spell a name incorrectly.

Very nice and interesting place to work and live, but how can person get there.

V nice information, best of luck for future endeavors

This is nice and a lovely cities to live. Thanks

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10 Breathtaking Less Crowded Locations To Explore In Canada

Cities like Vancouver and Toronto are popular tourist destinations. You will encounter massive crowds around the CN Tower and in Stanley Park.

But if you are tired of visiting these places, try out more remote locations, away from the struggles of city life. And these locations are usually student-friendly. For example, you can hand over your assignment to an essay writing service while you backpack across the most remote places in Canada.

To get you started, we have compiled a list of the most breathtaking locations to explore during your visit to Canada.

Niagara Falls

This awe-inspiring location in Ontario contains several waterfalls. Niagara Falls covers a large territory in Canada and parts of the United States. It is one of the most amazing places in Canada.

Tourists are allowed to go on a breathtaking journey on the water. You could hop on a Maid of The Mist Boat for an adrenaline-packed trip to the 188-foot waterfall.

But if you don’t fancy getting wet, you could view the waterfalls from a distance — in a helicopter. Observation deck tours will give you a better view of the waterfalls, especially during the nighttime displays.

Although some areas around Niagara Falls are crowded, you can find a location outside the hustle and bustle. The Niagara Botanical Garden is a serene destination with a lush and soothing landscape. Also, a quick stop at Marineland should be on your bucket list.

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the oldest park in Canada. Its remoteness provides the perfect hideaway spot for tourists seeking an escape from the city buzz.

Taking a tour through the park will give you a new appreciation for nature. Any nature-loving tourist will enjoy the raw and untouched vegetation, the tranquility, and the crystal clear multicolored waters. You can join a Gondola ride or paddle a canoe across the lakes scattered all over the park.

Banff National Park is also home to all sorts of wildlife, including the menacing grizzly bear. Even though you are unlikely to come across a bear while hiking, the thought is exciting.

Vancouver Island

Although Vancouver is a bustling city, it contains several picturesque remote locations. The island has glacial mountains, waterfalls, and natural lakes.

Vancouver Island is perfect for hikers and mountain climbers. And the mild weather is perfect for tourism. More so, surfers can head down to Tofino to enjoy the exotic beaches. Bird watchers can pitch their tents all over the island and might even catch a rare glimpse of grizzly bears.

This sparsely-populated town is an instant attraction for nature lovers. The snow-covered landscape provides the perfect cover for polar bears, hence the world’s Polar Bear Capital. You can book a tour — in a safe vehicle — to see the polar bears in their natural habitat.

Churchill is also a great place to see the beluga whales. And you can swim with the whales if you wish to spice up your trip.

This world-renowned ski resort is home to the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The ski resorts scattered across this British Columbia destination is a paradise for snow lovers . Visitors can also go hiking or rock climbing.

Mount Logan

Mountain climbers and hikers will fancy the challenge of scaling the highest peak in Canada. And if you don’t make it to the summit, you will enjoy the breathtaking overhead view of the Canada landscape.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a picturesque destination in Alberta. This tourist destination is perfect for couples or solo travellers with a massive appreciation for photography.

The park is home to many turquoise lakes, including the Pyramid and Maligne Lakes. Jasper National Park is also a UNESCO heritage because of its affluence of natural wonders.

Mont-Tremblant

This Montreal destination in the Laurentian Mountains is famous for its ski resorts. Mont-Tremblant houses over 400 lakes and hiking trails. During the warm months, visitors can ride on horseback or go mountain biking.

Gros Morne National Park

This park is a favorite destination for hikers seeking to explore the wild in its raw form. The Gros Morne National Park is part of the Long Range Mountains .

Yukon is famous for the Klondike Gold Rush that attracted visitors from all over the globe. Today, the attraction to Yukon is the natural wonder — the Aurora Borealis . Visitors pitch their tents overnight just to capture this beautiful display from nature.

Canada is the perfect destination for tourists seeking lowkey locations. You can enjoy waterfalls, go hiking, or play it close with the bears. The natural wonders all over the country will make for excellent viewing in pictures and videos. Ultimately, you will marvel at the wonders of nature. Start packing right away!

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Cheapest Places to Live in Canada

• Updated: March 12, 2024
• Canadian Places

The cost of living in Canada is quite high compared to some other Western countries, but you could say it is the price you have to pay for a high standard of living. Most places in Canada offer their residents good schools, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities as well as safe communities.

Generally speaking, the West Coast and the Prairie Provinces are more expensive whereas the cheaper options are found in Quebec and Ontario. Large cities are often, though not always as the table below shows, more expensive to live in than smaller cities.

When considering cheap places to live in, we need to look at a range of factors besides the cost of buying a home. We also need to look at the average income in the area. How affordable a place is to live in also depends on the region’s taxes and the cost of amenities such as petrol, electricity, and groceries.

In Canada, different territories and provinces set their own taxes. The price of petrol, electricity, and groceries can vary a lot, too. Having to pay for public transport can also add to the cost of day-to-day living.

So what are the cheapest places to live in Canada considering the variety of parameters?

To determine the cheapest places to live in Canada, we looked at living costs for a single person as well as the living costs for a family of four without the cost of rent or mortgage. We also looked at the cost of a single-family home and the average salaries.

It is interesting to note that though places like Kitchener and London have a lot more expensive homes than the other cities on the list, they are still among the cheapest places to live in Canada. This is because the taxes and the cost of day-to-day items are cheaper in the area.

Note on salary range: the range is always from the lowest average to the highest average. The actual lowest/highest salaries may be lower/higher.

Note on the order of places: the order is determined by several factors with the cost of living being just one of them. The cost of property (renting or buying) and salaries are also determining factors and all three combined can be used to work out the cheapest places to live. 

Sherbrooke, Quebec

Sherbrooke in southern Quebec is the cheapest city to live in. Interestingly, the average salary compared to living costs is quite high and better than Moncton and London, both of which have higher average living costs both for single individuals and for a family of four. The salaries range from (based on information on salaryexplorer.com) $25,100 to $443,000 so depending on where you are in the salary range, you could be living very comfortably or counting the pennies.

The biggest employer in Sherbrooke is the local university. About 11,000 of the city’s 178,809 residents work as professors, teachers or researchers at the university. The city is well connected to the rest of Canada by major railways and highways. Sherbrooke hosts many festivals and events throughout the year and there are art galleries and museums to explore. The region has many lakes, rivers and mountains, making it an ideal location for outdoor lovers. Sherbrooke even has a ski hill within the city and there are hundreds of mountain trails within thirty minutes of the city.

Red Deer, Alberta

Red Deer is located roughly halfway between Edmonton and Calgary. Most of the city’s residents live in the urban areas of the city. Sadly, the city has a high crime index. Its CSI (crime severity index which is assigned based on the seriousness of crimes) is 165.6 compared to 73.44 for the country as a whole.

Red Deer is home to 109,489 people. Many of the people living in Red Deer work in the oil industry, agriculture and cattle farming, and the area is a centre of petrochemical production. The average salary in Red Deer is $65,000 and ranges from $23,900 to $422,000. Red Deer used to have some of the cheapest property in Canada but prices have risen and the average home is now more expensive than in Sherbrooke and Moncton.

Red Deer is regarded as one of the most entrepreneurial cities in Canada and provides opportunities for new businesses from grassroots to expansion. Red Deer is a city with plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. There are trails along the river and its tributaries. The city also has great community parks as well as 300 acres of boardwalks, gardens and pathways.

Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is the capital of Quebec. Its population is expected to reach 737,700 by the end of 2023. It is rated as one of the safest cities in Canada and offers an excellent quality of life for its residents. The average salary in Quebec City is $67,000, but the cost of living is still very low both for singles and families. The salaries range from $31,900 at the lower end to $562,000 for the top earners.

Many of Quebec City’s residents find work in public administration, the defence industry, and tourism. The city has a European feel and is full of history with some interesting sites dating back hundreds of years. The oldest part of the city is one of UNESCO’s world heritage sites.

Quebec City is a very safe place to live with one of the lowest crime rates in North America. The city offers something for everyone, whether young or old, living the single or family life with festivals and events taking place in the city all year round.

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is the largest city in Quebec, with a population of 1.78 million. Many people in Montreal have European roots and the city has a very European feel. The city has the second largest economy in Canada and the Bank of Montreal and Royal Bank of Canada both have their headquarters in Montreal.

For such a large city, Montreal is astonishingly cheap. The average family house is only $583,600 and the average salary is $68,000. The range of salaries is from $34,000 to $600,000. Major employers in the city include manufacturers of electronic goods, pharmaceutical companies and the aerospace industry.

Montreal is ranked among the world’s most livable cities as well as one of the happiest locations. The city attracts around 45,000 immigrants each year, making it a very multicultural and diverse place to live in. Montreal has an excellent culture and nightlife scene and a lot of options for recreational activities. It is home to several world-renowned galleries and exhibitions. There are also plenty of recreational options and outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton, a vibrant maritime city, is the largest urban centre in New Brunswick, with a population of 85,198. Moncton’s economy has been devastated twice in the past. First in the 1860s, with the collapse of the shipbuilding industry and then with the closing of the CNR locomotive shops in the 1980s. But each time it has bounced back and today many of the residents find employment in the wholesale, retail and tourism sectors.

The average salary in Moncton is relatively low at $56,000 but so is the average house price at $317,500. People at the lowest end of the salary range can expect to earn about $24,500 and those at the opposite end can earn $432,000 on average.

Moncton has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene and many sports and recreation options to choose from. It is a multicultural city and wherever you are in Moncton, you are never far away from beautiful beaches and breathtaking natural landscapes making it an ideal city for all who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Kitchener, Ontario

Kitchener is home to 242,368 people and is the twin city of Waterloo. It has a strong German heritage and was called Berlin until 1916. Many of the city’s residents find employment in manufacturing. The top employers in the city include Research in Motion, Manulife, Sunlife Financial and Toyota Manufacturing.

Looking at the average house price in Kitchener, the highest on this list, one might wonder how the city made its way onto the list of cheapest places in Canada. However, since the comparison is based on a range of factors including the price of groceries and the tax rates, it is still a cheap place to live. Working in Kitchener will earn you between $30,500 and $538,000 on average, depending on the employment sector and experience.

Between Kitchener and its twin city Waterloo, you will find a plethora of things to do from sports to arts and restaurants to shopping. Kitchener also benefits from its proximity to Toronto with many people choosing to live in Kitchener and commute to Toronto for work.

London, Ontario

Unlike its namesake in the United Kingdom, London, Ontario is a cheap place to live. The average price for a family home is quite high and the average salary is low, but considering other living costs, it is a reasonably cheap place to live in. The annual salaries in London range from $24,800 to $438,000.

London is the home of 410,000 residents and is a regional centre for healthcare and education. Two of the biggest employers in the city are Western University and TD Canada Trust. In the past London’s economy was focused on manufacturing but is now oriented more towards IT and research, in particular healthcare research.

London is a growing city and attracts families, retirees and young professionals alike. The city is known as the Forest City for all the outdoor amenities available to residents. London is also an important centre for post-secondary education, with five university options and a multi-campus college.

Edmonton, Alberta

Initial figures can certainly sometimes be misleading, especially if looking only at the average house price and salary in Edmonton. You would think that with the average salary being $66,000 and the house price only $491,400 the city would place a lot higher on the list. However, Edmonton has higher average living costs than other cities on the list.

Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and has a population of 1,057,181 people. Many of the residents find employment in the oil and gas industry, in the financial sector or in education. The salaries in the city range from $31,600 to $558,000. The oil and gas industry attracts many migrant workers and as a result, the city is ethnically very diverse. More than 25% of the population state they belong to a ”visible minority” of mainly Asian ethnicities.

Edmonton hosts a variety of festivals and has been nicknamed the festival city of Canada. One of these festivals is the Edmonton Internation Fringe Festival, which is the second biggest of its kind after the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and the biggest fringe festival in North America.

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The 20 Cheapest Places to Live in Canada

Although people consider many factors when choosing a location in which to live, affordability is often top of their list. They try to find a place that has not only affordable property or rental prices but also a reasonable cost of living. Once they have found places that are within their budget, people can then start to compare each of the locations to find somewhere that offers them the lifestyle they desire. Some factors they may consider are education, employment, commutability, safety, community diversity, and what an area offers in terms of leisure activities and amenities. If you are trying to find somewhere affordable to live in Canada , then here are the 20 cheapest places to live in Canada for you to compare.

20. Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec

Sitting at the northern tip of Lake Champlain and on the banks of Richelieu River is Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. It is predominantly a French-speaking city that is home to more than 92 thousand people. It is within a commutable distance to Montreal, but most residents work in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. There are multiple employment opportunities in various sectors of the manufacturing industry, including wood products, food, and textiles. The average house price in this city is $315,632, so it just makes it onto the list of the cheapest places to live in Canada.

19. Longueuil, Quebec

The median property price in Longueuil, Quebec, is $315,177. Residents also have a median household income that is above the national average, and many people work in the aerospace industries in the area or at the John H. Chapman Space Centre. As Longueuil is a suburb of Montreal, there are also multiple employment opportunities in Montreal for those who are willing to commute. Although it is Montreal’s second-largest suburb with 240 thousand residents, Longueuil sits on the opposite side of the Saint Lawrence River.

18. Levis, Quebec

Although Quebec City is considered one of the most visually appealing places to live in Canada, living there is expensive. A fantastic compromise is to cross to the other side of the Saint Lawrence River to Levis, where the median house price is $309,397. Levis is a predominantly French-speaking city, as approximately 97 percent of the 144 thousand residents speak French as their first language. There are multiple employment opportunities in various sectors, including major manufacturers, shipbuilding, and a large refinery. Levis is also home to the headquarters of the Desjardins Group.

17. Weyburn, Saskatchewan

Also known as Opportunity City, Weyburn consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Canada, and the city’s affordability is one reason for this. The median real estate price is a little under $302 thousand. The biggest contributor to the city’s economy is the oil industry, but there are also jobs in many other industries, including gas and grain. Weyburn is the tenth-largest city in Saskatchewan, and it is home to 11 thousand people. It is under an hour from the border with the United States.

16. Brockville, Ontario

Brockville is one of the oldest cities in Canada, and it is also one of the most affordable. It is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque surroundings, which include sandy beaches. Divers also flock to this location as it is known as one of the best shipwreck diving destinations in the world. Brockville also boasts excellent schools, outstanding restaurants, fantastic shopping opportunities, and beautiful hiking trails. The housing market is diverse, with options ranging from condos to townhouses. No matter which type of property you choose, you will find the prices affordable compared to many other cities in Canada, and the median house value is around $294 thousand.

15. Prince George, British Columbia

One of the most affordable places to live in British Columbia is Prince George. According to MSN Money , Prince George is the largest city in northern British Columbia. Employment opportunities are diverse in this city, and the average monthly salary is $3,633.50. The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment is around $878 a month, while basic utilities will cost a further $195 monthly. The median cost to purchase a property is just over $289 thousand.

14. Sarnia, Ontario

Sarnia sits at the confluence of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River just on the border with the United States. The city is known for its oil industry, as it is in Sarnia, where the Canadian oil industry originates. Other important elements of the economy are agriculture and petrochemicals. It is an affordable option in Ontario, as the median house price is a little over $277 thousand. Sarnia is known for Lakeport State Park, Canatara Beach & Park, and Blue Water Bridge.

13. Val-d’Or, Quebec

Val-d’Or is a predominantly French-speaking city in Quebec with approximately 32 thousand residents. It has an economy based on lithium and gold mining, and it offers some of the highest salaries in Canada, especially for mining engineers and geoscientists. Val-d’Or is also one of the cheapest places to live in Canada, and the median house price is just under $276 thousand. Val-d’Or is home to a large ski resort that is popular with both locals and tourists.

12. Wetaskiwin, Alberta

Wetaskiwin is a small town in Alberta under an hour south of Edmonton that was originally a siding town. Its economy is now based on agriculture, tourism, gas, and oil. Wetaskiwin is the cheapest place to live in Alberta and the 12th cheapest overall. The median cost of property in this town is just under $258 thousand. There are approximately 12,600 people living in this city. However, there is a downside to choosing to live in this cheap location as the Wetaskiwin Times says that Wetaskiwin was ranked as the third most dangerous city in Canada based on crime rates.

11. Drummondville, Quebec

Drummondville in Quebec was originally founded by British soldiers in 1812. Despite its British links, approximately 96 percent of the city’s 68 thousand residents speak French as their first language. The median property price in Drummondville is around $250 thousand. This city is northeast of Montreal and just south of Trois-Rivieres. One of the most popular attractions in this city is the Village Quebecois d’Antan, where visitors can learn about life in Quebec during the 19th-century. Drummondville is also the host of the poutine festival, which takes place annually.

10. Sainte-Marie, Quebec

With a median property price of under $244 thousand, Sainte-Marie in Quebec makes it into the top ten cheapest places to live in Canada. Around 99 percent of the city’s population speaks French as their first language, and it is home to under 13 thousand residents. Some of the most popular activities in the area include golfing and skiing, says Tourism Outaouais .

9. Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec

Rouyn-Noranda sits on the border between Quebec and Ontario. It is on the shore of the Osisko Lake, and it is home to more than 42 thousand residents, 95 percent of whom are French-speaking. As the median property price in this location is around $240 thousand, it is considered an affordable place to live. Rouyn-Noranda has been given the nickname of the National Copper Capital as copper mining is at the center of the local economy.

8. Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Fund My Travel names Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario is one of the cheapest places to live in Canada. They say that while Ontario is home to some of the most expensive cities in Canada, there are also some examples of cheap places to live. It is the district’s third-largest city, and there are employment opportunities across many sectors. There is also high-quality education and beautiful surroundings. It is a fantastic place to live for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, especially winter sports. The average monthly cost for renting in this city is $1,000, while the average cost of buying a property is just over $238 thousand.

7. Rimouski, Quebec

Rimouski sits on the shores of the largest estuary in the world, and it has been voted one of the happiest places to live in Canada. The natural environment provides the perfect playground for various leisure activities, including hiking, sea kayaking, and bird watching. One reason for this is the residents are not worried about their finances, as it is one of the country’s most affordable cities. The median price for renting a property is around the $800 mark, while the median property price is a little under $228 thousand. Rimouski is home to around 49 thousand people.

6. Saint-Georges, Quebec

The largest city in southern Quebec, Saint-Georges, is home to around 31 thousand people. One aspect of life in this city that residents enjoy is its affordability. The general cost of living is below the national average, and the median real estate price is under $220 thousand. Many people who live in this city work in manufacturing, as this is where most of the employment opportunities lie. Saint-Georges is home to the headquarters of Manac, a semi-trailer manufacturer.

5. Timmins, Ontario

Timmins is a popular place to live for nature lovers due to the stunning surroundings and the opportunities to enjoy outdoor pursuits. Within the city, there is a great vibe, so residents get the best of both worlds. Jobs are available in a diverse range of sectors, including foresting, mining, engineering, communications, IT, and retail. Primary real estate in this city has a median price of just under $214 thousand. An interesting fact about this location is that it is the hometown of country singer Shania Twain.

4. Cornwall, Ontario

Cornwall is the most affordable city in Ontario and the fourth most affordable city in Canada overall. The median property price in Cornwall is around $212 thousand. Cornwall is home to approximately 47 thousand people, and the economy is diverse, with multiple employment opportunities in various industries. This city is close to the border with the United States, and it sits on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River.

3. Quesnel, British Columbia

If British Columbia is your chosen location, then the most affordable city in this part of Canada is Quesnel. It is one of the smallest cities in Canada, and it is surrounded by a stunning landscape. Quesnel is in the North Cariboo region of the province. The residents of Quesnel enjoy a quiet lifestyle and enjoy feeling close to nature. An interesting fact is that Quesnel has the lowest tax rate in Canada. The property prices are also low, with a median price of under $210 thousand. In addition to the affordability of this city, other advantages, including excellent schools and thriving industries that offer job opportunities.

2. Becancour, Quebec

The two factors that draw people to Becancour in Quebec are the employment opportunities and the affordability of the area. It is an industrial city that is home to some major plants in the refractory metals, industrial parts, and petroleum products sectors. There are also opportunities in the aeronautics industry. The residential areas of the city house 12,500 residents, and many residents commute to the other side of the Saint Lawrence River to work in Trois-Rivieres. It is an affordable place to live because the average price of real estate is less than $207 thousand, and the general cost of living is lower than the country’s average. It is also worth noting that the average salaries in this area are above the national average.

Sept-Iles, Quebec

According to Slice Canada , the cheapest place to live in Canada is Sept-Iles, Quebec, as the median house price is $204 thousand. It is a city in the Cote-Nord region of Quebec that sits on the north shore of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Sept-Isles is a major cruise port, so there are many jobs in the tourism and services sectors. However, aluminum and iron also play an important part in the city’s economy. It is home to 28,500 people, most of whom are French-speaking.

Written by  Liz Flynn

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25 Cheapest Places to Travel to From Canada

From South America and the Caribbean to Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia, the following are popular travel destinations that are cheaper and less busy in their shoulder seasons (just before and after the peak time) including the recommended daily budget for backpackers and mid-range travellers, the cheapest time of year to go, what it’s like there during that time and when you should book flights to minimize costs.

All prices are in CAD.

Cheapest destinations comparison

1. florida city, florida.

There are lots of ways to enjoy the family-friendly city of Florida City on a budget. If you enjoy walking, take your walking shoes, pick up a map, and head out. Restaurants are plentiful and many are inexpensive and it’s within striking distance of Miami, the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park.

A good selection of Florida City hotels are reasonably priced and dollars can be stretched with some advance planning, making this destination a favorite among off-season travelers searching for a low cost vacation to remember.

The cheapest months to travel are in January and September, when flights can be up to 30% below standard prices.

• Low cost season: January and September
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $80, Mid-range: $250
• Hotels from: $45 a night
• Temperature: January: 24°C high; 12°C low. September: 32°C high; 22°C low
• Travel time from Toronto: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 9 hours 30 minutes

 2. San Francisco, California

In the fall, the San Francisco tourist rush slows, the fog lifts, and hotel rates drop. The city’s temperate weather is also at its warmest. In spite of the sometimes inclement weather, “Frisco” is a popular tourist destination known for its fast moving fog, steep rolling hills, eclectic mix of architecture and landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge. There are some surprisingly cheap attractions in San Francisco. Take your walking shoes.

• Low cost season: Fall
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $97, Mid-range: $228
• Temperature: 18°C high; 11°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 5 hours 45 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 2 hours 25 minutes

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

The cheapest months to fly to Las Vegas are January, February, April, and September. Prices can be higher during March, July, and December. For the lowest fares, fly to Las Vegas either mid-week or on Saturday.

Reports are the most cost-efficient days to fly are, in order, Wednesday, Tuesday and Saturday. Tickets cost more on Friday and Sunday because more people fly to and from their destinations on these days. There are many, many freebies to be had in Vegas.

• Low cost season: Winter
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $120, Mid-range: $220
• Temperature: 22°C high; 0°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 5 hours 15 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 2 hours 40 minutes

4. Varadero, Cuba

Varadero is home to stunning beaches and excellent all-inclusive package deals where a hotel room can cost as little as $27 a night. You can get flights to Varadero for around $400 or less if you book far enough ahead.

People who don’t like crowds usually go to Cuba in mid to late April. The weather then is usually settled though the sea can be a little on the cooler side. However, the air temperature is just right and there are no bugs. Also it is usually the cheapest time. All inclusives are the best value.

• Low cost season: Spring
• Local B&Bs (casa particular) from: $45 a night
• Restaurants (paladares): Lunch: $7 to $10, Dinner: $13 to $30
• Temperature: 29°C high; 19°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 3 hours 35 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 9 hours 45 minutes

5. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Whether you’re into Mexican culture, water sports or whale-watching, you can’t go wrong with Puerto Vallarta as a low-cost destination. Hotels range from boutique hotels for as little as $50 a night to more expensive all-inclusive places.  If you are not a big fan of all-inclusives and you enjoy the real Mexico, book a hotel in Old Vallarta.

The prices are very reasonable and hotels while small by North American standards are clean and user friendly. The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is between April and June when the weather is pleasant and the room rates are affordable. During these months, rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists compared to the winter high season.

• Low cost season: Spring / early summer
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $65, Mid-range: $115
• Temperature: 28°C high; 19°C low 

6. Lisbon, Portugal

The best time to visit Lisbon is either from March to May or September to October, because the weather is still warm, hotel rates are cheaper and there are fewer crowds than in summer. In those seasons, you might also be able to squeeze in a few beach days.

The summer sees hot temperatures and crowded shores. Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city. If you book far enough ahead or can take advantage of last minute deals, there are lots of savings to be had for budget travellers.

• Low cost season: Spring / fall 
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $73, Mid-range: $166
• Temperature: Spring: 20°C high; 12°C low. Fall: 26°C high; 17°C low
• Travel time from Toronto: 7 hours 30 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 13 hours 30 minutes

7. Split, Croatia

The best time to visit Split is September and October when tourist crowds have dispersed and the Adriatic Sea is still warm enough for swimming. For those on a budget, there are many cheap and cheerful hotels and B&Bs that have a lot to offer, with most providing WiFi and convenient locations.

Split is the second-largest city of Croatia. The best time to visit in May to June and September and October. During these months, the days are mild and sunny. Being the shoulder season accommodation is easy to find and much cheaper compared to the peak season. 

• Low cost season: Spring / Fall
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $100, Mid-range: $280
• Travel time from Vancouver: 14 hours 30 minutes

The best value for dollar time to visit Jamaica is between mid November to January. Jamaica consists of white sandy beaches with pleasant weather conditions during this time.

Many of its all-inclusive resorts are clustered in Montego Bay, with its British-colonial architecture, and Negril, known for its diving and snorkeling sites. Jamaica still remains less expensive than many other Caribbean islands. Plan well ahead or take advantage of many last minute deals if you are not on a fixed schedule.

• Temperature: 30°C high; 20°C low
• Travel time from Toronto: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 7 hours 30 minutes

Peak tourist season in the Bahamas begins in mid-December and continues until mid-April, ending just after spring break. Late spring and early summer are more economical for travelers, as the cost of travel drops in the off-season and for the outer islands in particular.

The cheapest month to fly to the Bahamas is September. There are many low cost B&Bs and some great deals to be had around this time.

• Low cost season: Early fall
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $105, Mid-range: $265
• Temperature: 29°C high; 25°C low

10. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, an old Maya city, is located next to a sandy white beach and contrasting deep blue sea. To get here, fly to Cancun for less than $350 and then take a bus. Hotel rooms vary greatly in price but there are plenty of good hotels that charge as low as $50 a night if you book well ahead.

Blessed with pleasant weather much of the year, Tulum receives most visitors between late fall and early spring. However, there are many benefits to planning your trip during the region’s shoulder months, including cheaper rates and smaller crowds. The best time to visit Tulum is between November and December. You’ll get the benefit of post hurricane-season breezes, plus there are great hotel deals to be had.

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $71, Mid-range: $126
• Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low
• Travel time from Toronto: 4 hours 10 minutes (depending on stops)
• Travel time from Vancouver: 5 hours 50 minutes

11. Mexico City, Mexico

Budget travelers should aim to visit during the low season that runs from the day after Easter to around December 20. Although finding a cheap plane ticket may be possible year-round, be aware that hotel prices rise dramatically during the weeks of Easter and Christmas.

Mexico City is a bustling metropolis filled with exciting sightseeing attractions and things to do, which make it an incredible travel destination for visitors of all ages.If you are on a tight budget, there are many older, low-cost hotels in the city. They may look run down but most of them are well maintained and clean. 

• Low cost season: Summer / Fall
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $64, Mid-range: $113
• Travel time from Toronto: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Travel time Vancouver: 5 hours 50 minutes

12. Marrakesh, Morocco

The best times to visit Marrakesh are from March to May and between September and November. These shoulder seasons provide average daytime temps in the low 20 degrees to low 30s and very affordable hotel rates.

You should plan to spend around $57 per day on your vacation in Marrakesh, local travel, food and lodgings. It is a great destination for budget travellers. With a reasonable cost of living combined with low admission fees for some attractions and many being free, a trip to this exotic local is great value for money.  

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $71, Mid-range: $200
• Temperature: Spring: 22°C high; 10°C low. Fall: 28°C high; 10°C low
• Travel time from Toronto: 10 hours 50 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 14 hours 15 minutes

13. Hanoi, Vietnam

The best value for money time to visit Vietnam is late September to late October, as most people are put off visiting during the rainy season. Hotels in Hanoi are cheap and relatively easy to find. Low cost deals are often available from November to February, when the weather is slightly better.

However, regardless of the time of year, don’t leave Hanoi without trying street foods. Cheap and delicious. Hanoi is ideal for those looking to experience a more traditional Vietnamese lifestyle while travelling with an eye on their budget. While Ho Chi Minh City’s urban landscape provides an interesting slice of Vietnamese life, it is better suited for luxury travellers.

If you do have the budget, you can explore the best of both worlds as domestic flights between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are available on a daily basis. 

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $31, Mid-range: $60
• Temperature: 24°C high; 19°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 19 hours 50 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 17 hours 30 minutes

14. Nha Trang, Vietnam

The long dry season in Vietnam runs from January to August and the least humidity is between February and April. The cheapest month to fly to Vietnam is September or October. On average, it costs $26 per night to book a 3-star hotel in Nha Trang for a night. You’ll pay around $39 if you choose to stay in a 4-star hotel tonight.

Nha Trang is a bustling city, but it is also home to some of the world’s most pristine white beaches. Find a clean cheap hotel and enjoy the street food. You’ll have a low cost vacation to remember.

• Low cost season: Late summer
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $35, Mid-range: $67
• Temperature: 32°C high; 25°C low. 

15. Washington, DC

Washington, D.C. has plenty of budget hotels, as low as $50 a night if you do your homework and don’t expect luxury for this price. Also, you can get flights for around $250 depending on where you are flying from.

This is a great city for a family vacation, since many of its most famous attractions are free. For the budget conscious however, fall is an excellent time to visit D.C. The temperatures usually remain mild until Thanksgiving.

If you can catch a warm weekend between Thanksgiving and New Years this will be the cheapest time to visit D.C. because business travel is down at this time of year. 

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $80, Mid-range: $257
• Temperature: 32°C high; 25°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 1 hours 30 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 6 hours 15 minutes

The cheapest times to visit Utah on average and for great deals on Utah hotels, best dates run from the middle of January 15th through to early March. Busy times are the week of February 12th; April 16th to May 6th and August 6th to December 9th except the week of November 26th.

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Utah is usually mid to late September. The reason for going? The canyons of Utah are unique. They should be on everyone’s bucket list. 

• Temperature: 26°C high; 10°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Travel time Vancouver: 2 hours 30 minutes

17. Cancún, Mexico

In Cancun, prices peak from mid-December to mid-January. The cheapest time to visit is from May through to November and particularly September and October, the two rainiest months.

The best time to experience comfortable weather and less-expensive prices is the shoulder seasons; early December and April. There are many last minute deals for Cancun or book well ahead for the best prices.

• Low cost season: Early winter / spring
• Temperature: Early winter : 32°C high; 25°C low. Spring : 32°C high; 25°C low

18. San José del Cabo, Mexico

San José del Cabo is a resort city on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. It’s known for its sandy beaches and colonial buildings. You should plan to spend around $41 per day on your vacation in San Juan Del Cabos, which is the average daily price for hotel and meals.

Book at least 3 weeks before departure in order to get a below-average price deal. High season is usually April, May and June. The cheapest month to fly to San José del Cabo is May.

• Low cost season: Early summer
• Temperature: 38°C high; 22°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 4 hours 50 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 4 hours 40 minutes

19. San Juan, Puerto Rico

The news from Puerto Rico is finally starting to sound more positive after Hurricane Maria’s devastation. Most of the island has electricity, running water, internet and other services again.

You can get flights for under $300 and hotel deals for less than $100 a night in the capital, San Juan, cheaper once you are out of the main tourist spots. The best deals are in paradores, family-owned inns. The cheapest month to fly to Puerto Rico is September. 

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $160, Mid-range: $332
• Temperature: 30°C high; 26°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 4 hours 40 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 10 hours 15 minutes

20. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation that shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti to the west. It’s known for its beaches, resorts and golfing.

The months of March, April and May attract fewer visitors. This is a good time to book cheap flights as the weather is still warm and sunny. The off season runs April through November is considered the low-cost time. November and early December is also a great time to book cheap flights.

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $80, Mid-range: $266
• Temperature: 28°C high; 22°C low 

21. Bocas del Toro, Panama

if you are looking for cheaper fare and deals, opt for either off-season periods or shoulder periods. Shoulder periods are from late November / early December and May. Hotels are cheaper, often between $50 and less than $100 a night. You can fly to Panama City for under $500 if you do some research on travel websites.

Traveling around the islands by bus and boat is inexpensive. If you can keep your accommodation costs down and avoid the really high-end restaurants, you’ll save a lot of money in this country as most  attractions, transport, and local food are all very inexpensive.

• Low cost season: Spring / fall
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $93, Mid-range: $200
• Temperature: Spring: 28°C high; 2°C low. Fall: 32°C high; 22°C low
• Travel time from Toronto: 5 hours 50 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 12 hours 30 minutes

22. Guadalajara, Mexico

Guadalajara is a beautiful city in western Mexico. It’s known for tequila and mariachi music, both created in Jalisco, the state of which Guadalajara is the capital. This is Mexico’s second largest city and is where you can experience all those things most people associate with the country: tequila, mariachi music, bullfights, Mexican food, colonial plazas and much more.

Flights to Guadalajara can be had for around $500 and you can stay in a decent hotel for less than $100 a night. If you are travelling to Guadalajara, try booking at least 10 weeks in advance for the best deal. The cheapest month to travel is in September. 

• Low cost season: Fall through to spring
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $48, Mid-range: $150
• Temperature: 26°C high; 7°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 7 hours 40 minutes

23. Barranquilla, Columbia

Barranquilla is usually overshadowed by Cartagena and Medellin but this city at the mouth of the Magdalena River is a hidden gem. Its Carnival is one of the biggest in South America and the party continues throughout the rest of the year.

You can get a good hotel room for under $50 a night and flights for less than $500. High season is considered to be January, February and December. The cheapest month to fly to Barranquilla is April.

• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $51, Mid-range: $123
• Temperature: 33°C high; 25°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 7 hours 20 minutes (depending on stops)
• Travel time from Vancouver: 13 hours 40 minutes (depending on stops)

24. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

The city is known for its enormous Carnival, which brings together flamboyantly costumed performers, elaborate floats and cumbia music.If you’re living in North America, your cheapest option is to check out SpiritAir.com or Kiwi.com. They consistently offer cheap flights through Ft. Lauderdale to Central America.

High season is considered to be June, July and August. The cheapest month to fly to Guatemala is February. Book well in advance for best deals or if you can, take advantage of last minute deals.

• Low cost season: Early spring
• Recommended daily budget: Backpacker: $72, Mid-range: $180
• Temperature: 32°C high; 24°C low 
• Travel time from Toronto: 6 hours 40 minutes
• Travel time from Vancouver: 8 hours 50 minutes

25. Rincon, Puerto Rico

Rincon on Puerto Rico’s west coast is renowned for its beaches and snorkeling. Like the rest of Puerto Rico, Rincon has some great hotel deals for under $70 a night to draw tourists back to the island. You can get flights for around $300.

High season is considered to be April, May and June. The cheapest month to fly to Puerto Rico is September. For a tropical Caribbean island with world-class beaches and amenities, Puerto Rico might not seem like the ideal destination for budget travelers looking for an exotic getaway, But this island can be surprisingly affordable for the savvy tourist.

• Temperature: 32°C high; 23°C low 
• Travel time from Vancouver: 12 hours 15 minutes

All prices were sourced from NomadicMatt and LonelyPlanet travel guides at a USD/CAD exchange rate of 1.33.

Travel safety tips for Canadians

• Government of Canada Travel Advisories
• Travel health and safety for Canadians

Over to you

We’re interested to know:  What are your thoughts on these low-cost travel destinations for Canadians? Do you have tips or comments on the destinations we have suggested? Or, suggestions for other low-cost destinations?

Please let us know by leaving a comment below.

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