Cost of Living in Halifax

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Halifax in 2024?

What is the average monthly cost of living in Halifax?

The average cost of living in Halifax is $2,445.37 per month.

Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia, also known as the “Warden of the North”. It is a big international seaport and transportation center that connects to over 150 countries. Halifax is the main center for the economy and culture in the area, attracting people seeking a better life and opportunities.

Fortunately, Halifax offers a more affordable cost of living compared to larger Canadian cities.

With proper financial planning and budgeting, you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in this coastal city. If you’re contemplating a move to Halifax, read on to explore insights into the cost of living.

Methodology

The main data collection source for this article is Numbeo and trusted city-related websites, including the Government of Canada and Halifax Transit. The costs presented are estimates and pertain to an individual living alone on a monthly basis.

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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

Numbeo (Sept 2023)

Cost of buying a property in Halifax

Area/Neighborhood

Average home price 

*Halifax-Dartmouth

$530,900

CREA Statistics (Aug 2023)

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

Numbeo (Sept 2023)

What is the average monthly cost of utilities in Halifax?
The average monthly cost of utilities in Halifax is $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

Numbeo (Sept 2023)

What is the average monthly cost of groceries in Halifax?
The average monthly cost of groceries in Halifax is $341.80.

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

Halifax Transit (Sept 2023)

What is the Halifax Transit monthly pass price?
The Halifax Transit monthly pass price is $82.50.

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

Numbeo (Sept 2023)

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)

What is the average monthly cost of employee-sponsored health insurance in Halifax?
The monthly cost of employee-sponsored health insurance in Halifax is $63.00.

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

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Ann Nacario

The author

Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
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