How much does life in Canada cost: expenses and income of an average family

The cost of living in Canada can vary significantly depending on where you live. The country's capital, Ottawa, has relatively high property prices, but they're still lower than in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, which attract most immigrants. Let's look at the main living expenses in Canada.

Housing

As of September 2024, the average rent in Canada was $2,021 CAD ($1,486 USD) per month. Prices vary depending on the type of housing:

• Studios: $1,748 CAD per month ($1,285 USD);
• Two-bedroom apartments: $2,402 CAD per month ($1,766 USD);
• Three-bedroom apartments: $2,836 CAD per month ($2,085 USD);
• Single-family homes: $2,300 CAD per month ($1,690 USD).

Prices are higher in Toronto: a one-bedroom apartment costs an average of $2,428 CAD ($1,785 USD), and a two-bedroom apartment costs $3,158 CAD ($2,322 USD). In Ottawa, prices are slightly lower: $2,039 CAD ($1,500 USD) and $2,568 CAD ($1,888 USD), respectively. In less popular cities like Winnipeg, rent can be much cheaper, at around $1,775 CAD ($1,305 USD) for a two-bedroom apartment.

In addition to rent, you should factor in utility costs, which can range from $100 CAD to $250 CAD per month for an apartment ($73-183 USD). These usually include water, electricity, and gas. When looking for housing, it's important to read listings carefully, as utilities are sometimes included in the rent.

Food

Food expenses vary greatly depending on family size and eating preferences. Some estimates suggest a family of four spends about $1,300 CAD per month on groceries ($956 USD). Many Canadians prefer to shop at wholesale stores like Costco to save money. Eating out can significantly increase expenses; on average, lunch at an inexpensive restaurant costs $25 CAD ($18 USD).

It's worth noting that new immigrants can get free food from help centers or food banks during their first few months after arrival. This can greatly ease the financial burden during the adjustment period.

Transportation

While public transport is sufficient in large cities, having a car is often necessary, especially for families with children.

As of 2024, Canadians spend an average of $1,300 ($956 USD) on car ownership. Average car expenses include:

• Leasing: about $500-600 CAD per month ($368-441 USD);
• Insurance: $110-300 CAD per month ($81-220 USD);
• Fuel: $1.61 CAD per liter ($1.18 USD);
• Parking: $120 CAD per month ($88 USD);
• Maintenance: $80 CAD per month ($59 USD).

Insurance costs can vary significantly by province. For example, insurance is usually more expensive in British Columbia and Ontario than in Quebec. Factors like driver age, car make, driving history, and even neighborhood also affect the cost.

Communication and Internet

Canada is known for high internet and mobile service prices. High-speed internet can cost up to $110 CAD per month for gigabit connection ($81 USD), but slower plans are available for about $50 CAD per month ($37 USD). Mobile service for a family can cost $100-200 CAD per month ($73.5-147 USD), depending on the chosen plans and data allowances.

Entertainment and Other Expenses

For entertainment, including movies, streaming services, and national park visits, budget around $300 CAD per month ($220 USD). On average, Canadians spend about $50-60 CAD per month ($37-44 USD) on subscriptions to several streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and others. Depending on the region and theater, the average movie ticket costs $10-15 CAD per show ($7-11 USD).

Many Canadians prefer spending time outdoors, visiting national parks and attending various festivals, which often proves to be a more affordable leisure option. Entrance to national parks in Canada usually costs $8-10 CAD per visit per person ($6-7 USD).

It's also recommended to set aside at least 500 CAD per month ($368 USD) for investments and savings. This is particularly important for immigrants who won't be eligible for full pensions in the future. The earlier you start investing, the more comfortable your retirement will be.

Additional expenses may include life insurance — from $100 CAD per month ($73.5 USD), children's activities and classes — $50-200 CAD ($37-147 USD), and clothing and footwear — $100 CAD ($73.5 USD). However, this amount can vary depending on needs and preferences. Canadians can spend less by buying discounted clothing or more if they prefer brand-name items.

Overall Expenses

Summing up all major expense categories, monthly costs can amount to about $1,450 CAD per person ($1,066 USD) or $5,213 CAD for a family of four ($3,834 USD).

According to official statistics, in 2024 the median after-tax income for Canadian families was $70,500 CAD ($51,853 USD), which exceeds the estimated expenses and allows for a comfortable lifestyle.

When planning to move to Canada, it's important to consider all aspects of expenses and be prepared for potential financial challenges during the initial period after immigrating to Canada. However, with proper planning and financial management, you can ensure a decent standard of living in this country.