Although it is known as a country with a high cost of living, Canada offers several affordable places to live, especially in smaller cities outside major urban centres. Cities like Moncton, Saint John, as well as Winnipeg in Manitoba and Regina in Saskatchewan, offer lower housing costs, affordable rent, and a good quality of life.
These areas often have less traffic, lower taxes, and a strong sense of community. While wages may also be lower, the cost of living is manageable, making them attractive for families, retirees, and newcomers. Choosing an affordable location can provide financial stability and a more relaxed lifestyle compared to big urban cities. Let’s take a look at the top affordable places to live in Canada in 2025.
Why Affordability Matters in Canada Today
It is important to understand why affordability matters in Canada today because rising living costs are outpacing wages, making it harder for individuals and families to meet basic needs like housing, food, and transportation. Many Canadians are struggling with debt, and younger generations face barriers to home ownership and financial stability. The affordability crisis impacts mental health, economic growth, and social equity.
Addressing affordability is essential to ensure a strong middle class, reduce poverty, and maintain a high quality of life. As inflation and interest rates fluctuate, urgent action is needed to create sustainable, inclusive solutions that make life more affordable for all Canadians. For those looking to get ahead and pay a manageable price for living, Canada offers solutions outside major cities that are appealing for many reasons.
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Key Factors That Determine Affordability
Housing Costs
Housing is the largest factor in determining affordability. This includes rent or mortgage payments, property taxes, and home insurance. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, sky-high housing prices make living costs difficult to manage, while smaller cities like Moncton or Regina offer significantly more affordable options. Affordable housing allows individuals and families to allocate income toward savings, education, or other needs, contributing to long-term financial stability.
Groceries, Transit, and Utilities
Daily living expenses like groceries, public transit, and utilities also play a major role in affordability. Grocery prices can vary widely depending on location, with rural or northern areas often facing higher costs. Efficient public transit can reduce the need for a car, saving thousands annually. Utility costs, including electricity, heating, and internet, add up quickly, so lower rates and energy-efficient homes can make a noticeable difference in monthly budgets.
Quality of Life vs. Cost
Affordability isn’t just about low prices—it’s also about value for money. A more affordable city should still offer healthcare access, safety, job opportunities, education, and recreational options. Some regions offer a high quality of life without the premium cost of major metropolitan areas. Finding a balance between cost and livability ensures that residents can enjoy their surroundings and meet personal and family goals without financial strain.
Top 10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Canada(2025)
Sherbrooke, QC
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
Sherbrooke offers an average rent of $1,100 for a one-bedroom apartment, making it an affordable choice compared to larger cities in Quebec and Canada overall.
Population
As of 2024, Sherbrooke’s estimated population is 180,000. This mid-sized city provides a balanced mix of urban conveniences and small-town charm.
Why It’s Affordable
The city’s affordability is driven by its strong student population and relatively low demand for high-end housing. Lower property costs and cost of living also help keep rental prices stable.
Lifestyle Highlights
As a university town, Sherbrooke boasts a vibrant cultural scene, outdoor activities, and an active, youthful population. The city is highly bikeable, has great access to nearby outdoor attractions, and has highly accessible services in town, including two hospitals, one located in the centre of the city.
Moncton, NB
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Moncton is $1,100, offering an affordable option for individuals and couples seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle.
Population
Moncton’s population in 2024 is estimated at over 95,000. It’s a growing city that maintains a close-knit community feel while continuing to expand.
Why It’s Affordable
Moncton remains affordable due to its low overall cost of living, reasonable housing prices, and slower urban development compared to larger Canadian cities.
Lifestyle Highlights
Known for its bilingual culture, Moncton is family-friendly, welcoming, and affordable—ideal for those looking for balance and community. Often referred to as the “Hub City,” Moncton connects a number of Maritime provinces and has a detailed history extending back thousands of years.
Thunder Bay
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
Thunder Bay’s average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,250. This is lower than in many Ontario cities, making it a more budget-friendly option for those looking to live in the province but pay less than other locations.
Population
In 2024, Thunder Bay’s estimated population is over 108,000. It’s a mid-sized city that offers the amenities of urban living with a smaller-town atmosphere.
Why It’s Affordable
The city’s affordability stems from slower population growth and a steady housing supply. Property values remain accessible, keeping rental prices below the provincial average.
Lifestyle Highlights
Thunder Bay offers easy access to nature, with nearby lakes, trails, and parks. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Saint John is $1,050, making it one of the most affordable cities in Atlantic Canada for renters.
Population
Saint John’s estimated population in 2024 is over 69,000. It’s a smaller urban center with a strong sense of community and historic charm.
Why It’s Affordable
Affordability in Saint John is driven by a low cost of living and an undervalued housing market, which helps keep rent prices lower than the national average.
Lifestyle Highlights
Residents enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, access to waterfront views, and a housing market that supports first-time renters and buyers alike. As one of Canada’s oldest cities, it is steeped in history.
Abbotsford, BC
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Abbotsford is $1,500, offering a more affordable option compared to nearby Vancouver.
Population
Abbotsford’s estimated population in 2024 is 160,000. It’s one of British Columbia’s fastest-growing cities, with a mix of urban and rural living.
Why It’s Affordable
Abbotsford is more affordable than Greater Vancouver due to lower housing demand and more available land, making it attractive for those seeking value in BC.
Lifestyle Highlights
The city boasts a warmer climate, strong job growth, and serves as a practical, family-friendly alternative to Vancouver with scenic surroundings. Compared to the bustle of Vancouver, Abbotsford offers a slower lifestyle that still has the amenities of big city living.
Regina, SK
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
In Regina, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,080, making it an affordable choice for individuals and newcomers to the Prairies.
Population
As of 2024, Regina’s population is estimated at 235,000. It’s a growing city with a strong community feel and increasing economic opportunities.
Why It’s Affordable
Regina’s affordability is driven by a balanced housing market, steady development, and a lower cost of living compared to larger Canadian cities.
Lifestyle Highlights
Residents benefit from affordable housing, a stable economy, and access to parks, cultural venues, and a welcoming Prairie lifestyle. Regina is easily accessible and features small town, friendly charm that Canada is known for.
Winnipeg, MB
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
Winnipeg’s average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is just over $1,400, offering great value in one of Canada’s larger urban centers.
Population
With a population of 834,000 in 2024, Winnipeg is Manitoba’s capital and a thriving cultural and economic hub on the Prairies.
Why It’s Affordable
Winnipeg remains affordable thanks to steady housing development, a moderate cost of living, and accessible property prices compared to other major cities.
Lifestyle Highlights
Residents enjoy an urban lifestyle with vibrant arts, diverse neighborhoods, and lower housing costs than in many other big cities. Winnipeg is a great choice for young families looking to enter the market and maintain an affordable lifestyle.
Charlottetown, PEI
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
Charlottetown’s average rent is $1,000 for a one-bedroom unit, one of the lowest in the country, especially for a provincial capital.
Population
In 2024, Charlottetown’s population is around 42,000, making it a small city with a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere.
Why It’s Affordable
The city’s small size, limited urban sprawl, and lower utility and transportation costs help keep living expenses very manageable.
Lifestyle Highlights
Charlottetown offers island charm, a strong sense of community, and relaxed living—perfect for those seeking a peaceful coastal environment. It is accessible and runs at a slow pace, ideal for those who want to unwind and detach from the mainland.
Sudbury, ON
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
Sudbury’s average rent is $1,800 for a one-bedroom, reflecting higher prices within Northern Ontario but still affordable by provincial standards.
Population
The city has an estimated 2024 population of 170,000, making it the largest urban center in Northern Ontario.
Why It’s Affordable
Despite recent rent increases, Sudbury remains affordable due to its slower population growth, regional location, and strong rental supply.
Lifestyle Highlights
Residents benefit from stable employment in healthcare, manufacturing, and mining, affordable rentals, and access to natural beauty including over 300 lakes.
Lethbridge, AB
Average Rent (1-Bedroom)
Lethbridge offers one-bedroom apartments at an average rent of $1,400, providing good value within Alberta’s housing market.
Population
As of 2024, Lethbridge has a population of about 98,000, making it a mid-sized city with a strong sense of community.
Why It’s Affordable
Lethbridge stays affordable due to low property taxes, accessible home prices, and a cost of living below the national average.
Lifestyle Highlights
The city features a mild climate, a vibrant student population, and access to parks and trails, offering a relaxed, active lifestyle.
Comparison: Most Affordable Places to Live in Canada 2025
| City | Province | Avg Rent (1-Bedroom, Monthly) | Population (2024 Est.) | Notable Features |
| Sherbrooke | Quebec | $1,100 | 180,000 | University town with low housing costs |
| Moncton | New Brunswick | $1,100 | 95,000 | Bilingual community, family-friendly, low cost of living |
| Thunder Bay | Ontario | $1,250 | 108,000 | Access to nature, lower-than-average rent |
| Saint John | New Brunswick | $1,050 | 69,000 | Coastal lifestyle, cheap housing market |
| Abbotsford | British Columbia | $1,500 | 160,000 | Vancouver alternative, warmer climate, growing job market |
| Regina | Saskatchewan | $1,080 | 235,000 | Affordable housing, stable economy |
| Winnipeg | Manitoba | $1,400 | 834,000 | Urban lifestyle with low housing costs |
| Charlottetown | Prince Edward Island | $1,000 | 42,000 | Island charm, close-knit community, lower utilities |
| Sudbury | Ontario | $1,800 | 170,000 | Strong healthcare and mining sectors, affordable rentals |
| Lethbridge | Alberta | $1,400 | 98,000 | Post-secondary hub, great quality of life for families |
Cheapest Provinces in Canada to Live
If you’re looking to stretch your budget, some provinces in Canada are more affordable than others. Generally, the cheapest provinces to live in are New Brunswick, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island. These areas offer lower housing costs, utility expenses, and even groceries compared to places like Ontario or British Columbia. Smaller cities and rural towns often provide great quality of life without the high price tag. While job opportunities may vary by region, many people find the savings in everyday costs more than make up for it.
Tips for Moving to an Affordable Canadian City
Moving to a more affordable Canadian city can be a smart financial move, but it helps to plan ahead. Start by researching local job markets, healthcare access, and housing options. Consider renting first to get a feel for the area. Join local community groups online to connect with residents and get insider tips. Factor in transportation costs—some smaller cities may lack public transit options. Finally, budget for moving expenses like truck rentals and deposits. A little planning goes a long way in making your transition smooth and successful.
FAQs: Most Affordable Places to Live in Canada
What is the cheapest city in Canada to live in?
Sherbrooke, Quebec, and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, rank as some of the cheapest cities in Canada to live.
Which province has the lowest cost of living in Canada?
New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador are the provinces with the lowest cost of living in Canada.
Are there affordable places to live near major cities?
Yes, places like Sherbrooke and Abbotsford are close to major Canadian cities and offer affordable housing.
Where is the warmest and cheapest place to live in Canada?
Abbotsford ranks as one of the warmest places to live in Canada and has affordable housing.
What city in Canada has the best quality of life?
Generally, Vancouver usually ranks as one of the best cities in Canada for quality of life, though it has a high cost of living. Nearby, Abbotsford is a more affordable option for housing.
Which city is best to settle in Canada?
While this is highly subjective, those looking to settle in a city could choose Regina or Winnipeg. Those looking to be near a large urban centre may prefer Abbotsford, while those looking for more relaxed, outdoor lifestyles might be better suited in Thunder Bay or Lethbridge.
Where is the nicest most affordable place to live?
Consider Nova Scotia or New Brunswick— two coastal provinces known for friendly communities, beautiful scenery, and a lower cost of living compared to more populated provinces.
What is the best city to move to in 2025?
Regina or Winnipeg are top contenders for most affordable and best cities given cheaper housing, lower cost of living and city lifestyles.
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