Housing costs in Halifax
The real estate market in Halifax offers many choices for different types of buyers. Whether you enjoy city life or prefer a quiet suburban setting for your family, Halifax has something to suit your needs.
What’s really great about the Halifax real estate market is that it’s affordable, which is much cheaper than in other major Canadian cities. You can find more information about housing costs below.
Cost of rent in Halifax, CA
|
Area/Neighborhood |
1-bed apartment |
3-bed apartment |
|
Halifax (Outside of Center) |
$1,501.56 |
$2,381.35 |
Cost of buying a property in Halifax
|
Area/Neighborhood |
Average home price |
|
*Halifax-Dartmouth |
$530,900 |
Utility costs in Halifax: Internet, electricity and water
Whether you own a home or rent in Halifax, your utility bills are an important part of your monthly costs. In Nova Scotia, the main company that provides electricity is called Nova Scotia Power. They’re overseen by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.
|
Utilities |
Cost |
|
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 915 sq ft Apartment |
$256.18 |
|
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) |
$106.42 |
|
Total |
$362.60 |
Grocery costs in Halifax
Grocery expenses in Halifax are affordable compared to other major cities. Groceries and convenience stores don’t tax essential food items like eggs, vegetables, meat, fish, coffee, and more when they are sold.
|
Grocery items in Halifax |
Cost |
|
Milk (regular), (1 gallon) |
$10.72 |
|
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) |
$3.09 |
|
Rice (white) (1 lb) |
$2.66 |
|
Eggs (regular) (12) |
$4.84 |
|
Local Cheese (1 lb) |
$6.86 |
|
Chicken Filets (1 lb) |
$7.14 |
|
Beef Round (1 lb) |
$6.48 |
|
Apples (1 lb) |
$2.47 |
|
Banana (1 lb) |
$0.99 |
|
Oranges (1 lb) |
$2.23 |
|
Tomato (1 lb) |
$2.61 |
|
Potato (1 lb) |
$1.60 |
|
Onion (1 lb) |
$1.56 |
|
Lettuce (1 head) |
$3.45 |
|
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) |
$20.00 |
|
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) |
$4.20 |
|
Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle) |
$4.55 |
Public transit in Halifax
Halifax Transit is the city’s transportation system with buses, ferries, and Access-A-Bus services for residents in different areas. The regional express metro on routes 320, 330, and 370 offers efficient connectivity.
Payment options include cash onboard using exact change and ticket purchases in retail partners.
You can find the fare details in the table below:
|
Type of fare |
Rate |
|
Single ticket (Bus and ferry) |
$2.75 |
|
10 Tickets |
$18.00 |
|
Monthly pass |
$82.50 |
|
Single Ticket (Regional Express) |
$4.25 |
Entertainment costs in Halifax
Halifax is famous for its maritime history and beautiful coastline. There are lots of things to do here, like exploring Historic Properties, tasting delicious seafood at Halifax Waterfront, and discovering local history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
The city also has the bustling Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, lovely walking trails, fun activities by the waterfront, and a vibrant arts community.
|
Entertainment in Halifax |
Cost |
|
Mid-range restaurant meal |
$50.00 |
|
Taxi 1h |
$30.00 |
|
1 cinema ticket |
$14.50 |
|
Total |
$94.50 |
Sales tax in Halifax
Canada has three types of sales taxes that vary by province. In Nova Scotia, there’s the HST, set at about 15%, which applies to purchases of goods and services.
While some items, like basic groceries and sometimes feminine hygiene products, are exempt from sales taxes, the rate for other products depends on the specific province.
Government of Canada (Sept 2023)
Healthcare costs in Halifax
Nova Scotia Medical Services Insurance (MSI) is the provincial plan for insured medical services. MSI provides free medical services, including some dental and optometrist services, to Nova Scotia residents who need them.
For comprehensive health coverage, consider purchasing a private health insurance policy or use your employer-sponsored plan. Costs and coverage for private health insurance can differ based on factors like age, gender, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, coverage needs, and provider choice.
Here’s a quick overview:
|
Type of healthcare |
Cost |
|
Employer-sponsored health insurance |
$63.00 |
|
Non-employer-sponsored health insurance |
$50.00-$300.00 |
|
Gym |
$62.41 |
Numbeo (Sept 2023), Hellosafe (2023) & Insurance Business (Apr 2023)
Conclusion
Halifax has a special charm thanks to its stunning natural beauty. Living there means enjoying beautiful waterfront views, picturesque beaches, pleasant weather, a variety of outdoor activities, a lively cultural scene, and job opportunities.
If you’re considering a move to Halifax, this article provides valuable insights into the city’s cost of living in 2024. You can find a summary of expenses in the table below.
Before moving, it is important to research the best moving companies in Halifax. This will ensure a smooth and stress-free transition.
|
Category |
Monthly cost |
|
1 bed apt rent outside city center |
$1,501.56 |
|
Groceries Numbeo’s grocery list |
$341.80 |
|
Utilities Electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage |
$256.18 |
|
Internet with 60 Mbps |
$106.42 |
|
Transit pass |
$82.50 |
|
Entertainment Meal, taxi, movie |
$94.50 |
|
Gym membership |
$62.41 |
|
Total |
$2,445.37 |
