The cost of living in Canada, city by city.
What rent, transit, groceries and a phone plan cost in five cities newcomers choose most, and how much cash to bring for your first month.
Monthly costs at a glance.
Typical ranges for a newcomer renting in each city. Check current listings before you decide.
| City | 1-bedroom rent | 2-bedroom rent | Transit pass | Groceries (per adult) | Phone plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto | $2,100–$2,500 | $2,700–$3,200 | about $155 | $400–$500 | $35–65 |
| Vancouver | $2,200–$2,600 | $3,000–$3,500 | about $117 | $400–$500 | $35–65 |
| Calgary | $1,400–$1,700 | $1,750–$2,100 | about $126 | $400–$500 | $35–65 |
| Montreal | $1,550–$1,900 | $1,900–$2,400 | about $110 | $400–$500 | $35–65 |
| Ottawa | $1,800–$2,150 | $2,250–$2,650 | about $138 | $400–$500 | $35–65 |
CAD per month. Rent ranges sit around average asking rents from the Rentals.ca/Urbanation National Rent Report (July–August 2026); individual listings vary widely by neighbourhood and building. Transit: TTC fares, TransLink fares, Calgary Transit fares, STM fares, OC Transpo fares (2026 adult fares; Toronto uses the TTC monthly fare cap, 47 × $3.30). Groceries, phone, utilities and internet are SettleCanada estimates. Checked September 2026.
Bring more cash than you think.
Your first month costs far more than an average month. Here’s what to plan for before your first paycheque.
- First and last month’s rent: common in Ontario; other provinces may ask for a damage deposit instead
- Temporary housing for 2–4 weeks while you search
- Furniture and kitchen basics: often $1,500–3,000 for a small apartment
- Winter clothing: a warm coat, boots and layers
- Phone, transit and groceries before your first pay
- A buffer for 3–6 months of expenses while you job hunt
Budgeting while supporting family.
Money you send home is a regular expense, so plan it in from the start and compare providers to keep more of it.
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