Top 7 Cheapest places to live in Canada with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,250
• Average home price: $308,300

Fredericton, the capital of New Brunswick, is a charming East Coast city in Canada with a rich history. The city is known for its beautiful old buildings, many of which are over 100 years old—a rarity in Canada. Fredericton offers a variety of outdoor activities, including picturesque waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. It’s also a popular spot for biking, relaxing, and enjoying performances at The Playhouse.

The city is home to many local farmers who sell fresh produce and fish, and it boasts stunning views of the Saint John River. In the summer, Fredericton comes alive with music events and festivals, making it a vibrant place to be.

Housing in Fredericton is very affordable compared to the rest of Canada. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,250, and the average property price is $308,300.

The community is known for its strong volunteer initiatives and a thriving craft beer scene. While a good portion of the population speaks French, most daily conversations are in English, so French is not necessary unless you work in a government job.

Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,841
• Average home price: $588,600 

Calgary is more affordable compared to other major Canadian cities. It’s also just a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from Banff, often regarded as one of the most beautiful places on earth, offering breathtaking scenery. With a CSI of 72.47, Calgary is safer than many other large cities in the country. Housing is also reasonably priced, with homes averaging around $588,600, and 1 bedroom apartments average at $1,841 per month. 

Known as the center of Canada’s oil industry, Calgary offers ample job opportunities in that sector. There is also a high demand for professionals such as nurses, food counter attendants, retail managers, and administrative officers. Many people are relocating from Toronto to Calgary for better job prospects and more affordable living.

Calgary has plenty to offer, from cheering on the Calgary Flames (the city’s popular hockey team) to exploring its numerous nature trails. While air quality can be a concern at times, the city’s many advantages make it a top choice, securing its spot on our list.

Zumper (Aug 2024) & CREA (July 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $800
• Average home price: $308,300

From art galleries to the Grey Rock Casino, you won’t be disappointed by the variety of activities you can enjoy in Edmundston. What makes Edmundston unique is that it is one of the most Francophone towns outside the province of Quebec. Over 90% of the population in Edmundston are French speaking, as their first language.

Edmundston is not only known as a university town but as the business centre for Madawaska. Locals appreciate that the city is located right next to the United States border, making Maine easily accessible by car. It is also conveniently close to the province of Quebec, making day trips to Quebec City possible. Residents have noted that the city is a great place to raise a family, thanks to educational institutions like Saint Mary’s Academy and École Notre-Dame.

Facebook Property Search near Edmunston (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,249
• Average home price: $308,300

Saint John is a beautiful city with a view of the Bay of Fundy. It has many beaches that are perfect for outdoor activities, such as Saints Rest Beach and McLarens Beach. Locals have noted that Saint John is not a walkable city, so it is suggested to have a vehicle on hand if you are thinking of moving here.

It is recommended to visit uptown Saint John, as this is where you will find restaurants and bars—perfect for a weekend activity. Saint John is also full of history and culture, being Canada’s oldest incorporated city!

Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,299
• Average home price: $307,214

Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, is known as the perfect family haven due to its easy accessibility to the city in less than 20 minutes. Not only is Regina an affordable city to live in, but it also has a small-town feeling, as noted by many locals. If you are looking to integrate into the community, Regina is the perfect city due to its large golf culture at the Royal Regina Golf Club.

It is important to note that many residents have explained that Regina is a city for a more mature audience as it is a government town. Residents also mentioned that the University of Regina is very focused on the fine arts department, so there are always art galleries open to the public, making for a perfect pastime.

Zumper (Aug 2024) & Remax (2024)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,397
• Average home price: $399,700 

Edmonton is the capital of Alberta, the fifth largest city in Canada with a population of just over one million. It is one of Canada’s youngest and fastest growing cities and offers a range of attractions and conveniences that make it a great place to live. Just a few hours’ drive from the Rockies, it provides easy access to stunning natural landscapes. Sports enthusiasts can catch an Edmonton Oilers game, while food lovers can explore various restaurants offering diverse cuisines and major chain stores. Edmonton hosts a broad spectrum of festivals year round, reflected in the nickname “Canada’s Festival City.” 

The city has good schools and a network of scenic trails for biking or walking along the picturesque River Valley, which is possibly set to become an urban national park and is the largest urban park in the world in fact it is 22 times the size of New York’s Central Park. Edmonton has minimal traffic, low taxes, and an expanding LRT system for improved transportation, commuting is stress-free. Housing remains highly affordable, with condos available for under $200,000, allowing for homeownership at rental prices.

Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024) 

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,100
• Average home price: $564,000

Halifax is increasingly popular among Canadians from larger, more expensive cities, as they seek more affordable housing options. While renting in Halifax can still be relatively pricey and general costs such as food are higher compared to other regions, buying property remains much more affordable than in Toronto or Vancouver.

Residents often have mixed feelings about Halifax: some fall in love with the city and vow never to leave, while others feel differently. The city is known for its friendly people, vibrant culture, and rich history. Halifax offers stunning Atlantic coastlines, beautiful beaches, and scenic trails. For those who appreciate nature and coastal living, Halifax presents a relatively affordable opportunity to buy a home.

Zumper (Aug 2024) & Realtor (Aug 2024)