When people think of moving across Canada, one of the first questions they ask is: “What’s the cost of living like?”
If you’ve been considering a move to Saint John, New Brunswick, you may have already heard that the region offers some of the most affordable housing in the country. But the cost of living goes beyond real estate; it includes groceries, transportation, healthcare, utilities, and lifestyle choices.
This guide compares Saint John’s cost of living to major Canadian cities in 2025, helping you understand what life (and your budget) could look like if you relocate here.
1. Housing Costs: Saint John vs. The Rest of Canada
Housing is usually the biggest factor when comparing cities.
Saint John continues to offer some of the most affordable real estate in Canada. In 2025, the average home price in Saint John hovers around $350,000, depending on location and size.
Compare that to:
Toronto: ~$1M average
Vancouver: ~$1.2M average
Calgary: ~$700,000 average
Halifax: ~$580,000 average
👉 A home in Saint John can cost three to four times less than in major metropolitan markets.
For renters, the difference is just as striking:
Saint John: 1-bedroom ~$1,200/month
Toronto: 1-bedroom ~$2,400/month
Vancouver: 1-bedroom ~$2,300/month
Calgary: 1-bedroom ~$1,700/month
Halifax: 1-bedroom ~$1,800/month
Takeaway: Housing affordability is Saint John’s biggest advantage. Buyers can often enter the market here for what amounts to a down payment in larger cities.
2. Utilities & Internet
Utilities in Saint John are generally slightly lower than the national average, especially with widespread adoption of heat pumps for efficiency.
Saint John: ~$220/month for electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage
Toronto/Vancouver: ~$250–$300/month
Calgary: ~$250/month
Halifax: ~$240/month
Internet services are similar across Canada, averaging $90–$120/month, with Saint John sitting on the lower end.
Takeaway: Utility savings aren’t as dramatic as housing, but every bit adds up, especially in New Brunswick’s four-season climate.
3. Transportation Costs
Transportation can vary widely depending on lifestyle.
Public Transit: Saint John Transit is affordable, but not as extensive as Toronto’s TTC or Vancouver’s SkyTrain.
Monthly pass in Saint John: ~$85
Toronto: ~$156
Vancouver: ~$120–$150
Calgary: ~$115
Halifax: ~$82
Car Ownership: Many Saint John residents rely on cars since public transit is limited. Gas prices in New Brunswick are typically lower than in Vancouver and Toronto, closer to Alberta levels. Insurance is also more affordable.
Parking: Huge savings in Saint John. Uptown parking passes average $150/month, compared to $250–$400 in Toronto or Vancouver.
Takeaway: If you drive, Saint John is cost-effective. If you rely heavily on transit, bigger cities may provide more convenience but at a bit higher price.
4. Groceries & Dining
Groceries across Canada are affected by inflation and shipping costs. Saint John is similar to other cities in central Canada because many goods are imported but a lower rate than in Vancouver.
Monthly grocery bill for a family of four:
Saint John: ~$1,100
Toronto: ~$1,200
Vancouver: ~$1,250
Calgary: ~$1,100
Halifax: ~$1,150
Dining out:
Saint John: Casual meal ~$18–$20, mid-range dinner for two ~$70
Toronto/Vancouver: Casual meal ~$25–$28, mid-range dinner for two ~$100+
Calgary: ~$22 casual, ~$80 dinner
Halifax: ~$20 casual, ~$75 dinner
Takeaway: Saint John’s grocery costs are similar to those in big cities, but dining out is cheaper, making it easier to enjoy restaurants without straining the budget.
5. Healthcare & Childcare
Healthcare: New Brunswick follows the Canadian standard of publicly funded healthcare. Prescription drugs, dental, and vision are extra (often through private insurance). Costs are consistent across provinces.
Childcare: This is where New Brunswick shines.
Average daycare in Saint John: ~$850/month
Toronto: ~$1,600–$2,000/month
Vancouver: ~$1,400–$1,800/month
Calgary: ~$1,200/month
Halifax: ~$1,000–$1,200/month
Takeaway: Families relocating to Saint John often save annually on childcare alone. With an introduction of afforable daycare as well as government assisted dental care, people moving to New Brunswick are able to gain these benefits if needed.
6. Entertainment & Lifestyle
Saint John offers a slower-paced, coastal lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
Gym Membership: ~$60/month in Saint John vs. $80–$100 in Toronto/Vancouver.
Theatre Tickets: Local shows ~$25–$40, compared to $100+ for major productions in Toronto.
Sports & Recreation: Access to Fundy trails, beaches, and hiking is free or low-cost compared to big city attractions.
Takeaway: While entertainment options may be smaller in scale, they are more affordable and family-friendly.
7. Taxes & Insurance
Property Taxes: Saint John’s rates are high, but depend on the municipality; living outside of the city in the suburbs will lower your tax bill on average. Property tax bills are usually much lower than in Toronto or Vancouver because of the lower home values.
Car Insurance: New Brunswick averages $1,000/year, compared to Ontario (~$1,700) and B.C. (~$1,800).
Takeaway: Lower insurance and property taxes further reduce living costs in Saint John.
8. Quality of Life Trade-Offs
Cost of living isn’t just about dollars; it’s about lifestyle.
Saint John offers:
Affordable housing
Oceanfront access and outdoor recreation
Smaller community feel
Less congestion and commute times
Bigger cities offer:
Broader job markets
Extensive public transit
More nightlife, restaurants, and cultural diversity
The decision often comes down to priorities: affordability and lifestyle balance in Saint John vs. career and cultural opportunities in larger cities.
The cost of living in Saint John, NB, is significantly lower than in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, or Halifax, especially when it comes to housing, childcare, and daily lifestyle expenses.
If you’re relocating, Saint John offers a rare opportunity: you can enjoy homeownership, ocean views, and a slower pace of life without the financial strain of Canada’s major urban markets.
👉 Thinking about moving to Saint John? Reach out to learn about neighbourhoods, schools, and what life is really like here on the East Coast.
