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Cost of Living in St. John’s vs Ontario: What Homebuyers Should Know Before Moving

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March 10, 2026

Cost of Living in St. John’s vs Ontario: What Homebuyers Should Know Before Moving

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Is the cost of living in St. John’s lower than in Ontario?

Yes – generally speaking, the cost of living in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador is significantly lower than many cities in Ontario, especially when it comes to housing. However, some everyday expenses like groceries and transportation can be similar or slightly higher due to geography and supply logistics.

Why People Are Comparing St. John’s and Ontario Right Now

Across Canada, affordability has become one of the biggest factors influencing where people choose to live. Many residents in Ontario—particularly in cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and the Greater Toronto Area—are experiencing some of the highest housing costs in the country.

That’s why more Canadians are looking east.

St. John’s offers something many larger Canadian markets struggle with today: a capital city lifestyle with smaller-market housing prices.

For buyers, retirees, and remote workers especially, the comparison between Ontario vs St. John’s cost of living is becoming an increasingly important conversation.

Housing Costs: The Biggest Difference

Housing is where the gap between Ontario and St. John’s becomes the most noticeable.

In many Ontario cities, housing demand has pushed prices dramatically higher over the past decade. Meanwhile, the St. John’s real estate market has remained relatively stable and far more accessible for buyers.

For example:

  • The average home price in St. John’s is around $300,000 in many market segments.
  • A one-bedroom apartment rental often ranges from roughly $1,000–$1,500 per month depending on location and building type.
  • Some rentals can still be found closer to $900–$1,200 per month.

Compare that to many parts of Ontario where:

  • Home prices regularly exceed $700,000–$1M+ in larger markets
  • One-bedroom apartments often rent for $2,000+ per month

In fact, cost comparisons show that living in St. John’s can be about 18% cheaper overall than living in Toronto, with rent prices more than 40% lower.

For buyers coming from Ontario, that difference can dramatically change what kind of home is possible within the same budget.

Groceries and Food Costs

One area where St. John’s can feel similar—or occasionally slightly higher—than Ontario is groceries.

Because Newfoundland is an island with many goods transported long distances, food prices can fluctuate depending on shipping and supply.

Some cost comparisons show:

  • Grocery prices can be roughly similar to Ontario averages, with some items occasionally higher due to transportation costs.
  • Dining out and restaurant prices are typically slightly lower than major Ontario cities.

While groceries may not always be cheaper, the savings from housing often more than offsets the difference.

Monthly Cost of Living

The overall cost of living in St. John’s depends on lifestyle, but many estimates suggest:

  • A single person may spend roughly $2,800–$3,500 per month including housing and living expenses.
  • A family of four may spend between $5,200 and $6,800 per month depending on lifestyle and housing choices.

For comparison, households in major Ontario cities often need significantly higher monthly budgets due to elevated rent or mortgage costs.

Across Canada, provinces like Ontario and British Columbia consistently rank among the most expensive places to live, while many Atlantic Canadian markets remain more affordable.

Transportation and Lifestyle Costs

Transportation costs also vary depending on where you live.

In larger Ontario cities, many residents rely on public transit systems. In St. John’s, most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting and daily errands.

That means your transportation costs may include:

  • Gas
  • Insurance
  • Maintenance

However, St. John’s has advantages in other lifestyle categories:

  • Shorter commute times
  • Less congestion
  • Easier parking
  • Lower housing density

For many people moving from Ontario, these lifestyle differences are just as valuable as the financial savings.

Why More Ontarians Are Looking at St. John’s

Over the past several years, many people relocating to Newfoundland and Labrador have cited similar reasons:

1. Housing affordability
Buying a detached home in St. John’s may cost less than a small condo in many Ontario markets.

2. Remote work flexibility
More Canadians now have the option to work from anywhere.

3. Lifestyle change
People looking for a smaller city environment with coastal scenery and a strong community culture often find St. John’s appealing.

Is St. John’s the Right Move for You?

The cost of living in St. John’s versus Ontario depends heavily on where in Ontario you’re coming from. Someone moving from Toronto, Ottawa, or the GTA will likely notice a dramatic difference in housing affordability.

For many buyers, the real question becomes:

Do you want a larger home and lower housing costs—even if some everyday items cost a bit more?

For a growing number of Canadians, the answer is yes.

Final Thoughts

When comparing the cost of living in St. John’s vs Ontario, housing is the defining factor. While groceries and transportation may occasionally be comparable—or slightly higher—the savings in real estate can dramatically improve overall affordability.

That’s why many people relocating from Ontario are taking a serious look at what life in St. John’s could offer.

Feel free to hop over and watch my full video on this; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5VjaxrsJ8c

Thinking About Moving to St. John’s?

If you’re exploring a move from Ontario or simply want to understand the St. John’s real estate market better, I’d be happy to help.

You can reach out anytime to talk about:

  • Current home prices
  • Neighborhood options
  • Buying opportunities in St. John’s
  • What relocating here really looks like

Ryan Elliott
Realtor – St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

📞 Book a call: (709) 687-7726