Discover Canada’s most affordable cities in 2025—from prairie hubs to Atlantic gems—where low living costs meet strong quality of life.
Wallet-Friendly Urban Living Across Canada
Budget-minded hubs across regions
Some of the most affordable Canadian cities are found throughout the Prairies, Atlantic provinces, and Quebec. Regina (SK) tops many rankings with a cost-of-living index about 16.6% below the national average . Quebec City, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and Red Deer also consistently rank among the most economical
Coastal bargains with charm
In the Atlantic region, Moncton (NB) stands out for its low housing costs and vibrant bilingual culture—with one-bedroom rents around CAD 1,100/month and average home prices near CAD 350,000. Saint John (NB), Halifax (NS), and St. John’s (NL) also offer more affordable coastal living, combining scenic settings with modest rents and a slower pace of life
Balanced urban living in cultural centers
Montreal shines with a standout combination of affordability and quality-of-life. Mercer’s 2024 rankings place it at 118th globally for cost of living, yet 20th for overall livability—making it “the top city overall” in terms of value.
Key metrics in real estate affordability
Smaller cities often offer the most affordable home-buying options. Rivière-du-Loup (QC) records average home prices around CAD 295,000, while others—like Tracadie (NB) and Thetford Mines (QC)—offer similarly low entry prices, making them appealing for buyers seeking budget-friendly markets.
Why These Cities Offer Great Value
Location and lifestyle
Regina and Saskatoon benefit from lower housing and living costs typical of prairie provinces, without sacrificing amenities or job opportunities.
Moncton and Saint John shine with modest costs, bilingual culture, and stable economic activity
Montreal draws residents with its cultural richness, bilingualism, and strong public services, offering excellent value for money
How to Choose Your Ideal City
| City / Region | Highlights |
| Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg | Lower-than-average living costs; solid economies |
| Moncton, Saint John, Halifax | Affordable coastal living; welcoming culture |
| Quebec City, Sherbrooke | Cost-effective Quebec living; cultural charm |
| Montreal | Best balance of cost and quality of life |
| Small QC/NB towns | Extremely low home prices for buyers |
When evaluating options, consider your priorities—employment sector, language preferences, housing versus rental markets, and lifestyle vibe (urban vs. smaller cities).
Canada’s affordable cities span coast to coast, offering diverse choices—whether you’re renting, buying, or relocating for work or education.
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