From food to housing, the cost of big city living has skyrocketed and to save a couple of bucks, you might be considering a change in scenery. If you’re among the many asking yourself not when, but where – you’re in luck because a new list reveals the 20 cheapest cities in Canada.

Published by digital a mortgage lending platform, Nesto, the North’s most cost-conscious places to live were ranked and separated into two categories for those ready to buy or just looking to rent.

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Based on affordability, job growth and low cost of living, they determined that Quebec was the best option overall, with Sept-Îles and Trois-Rivières topping their ’10 Best cities for Housing Affordability and Job Growth’ and ’10 Best Cities for Rental Market Affordability & Fewer Expenses’ lists respectively.

As for the other cities? Here are the other destinations that were named the cheapest cities in Canada.

10 Best Canadian cities for Housing Affordability and Job Growth (average home price)

  1. Sept-Îles, Quebec, $204,042
  2.  Bécancour, Quebec, $206,748
  3. Quesnel, British Columbia, $209,133
  4. Cornwall, Ontario, $211,715
  5. Timmins, Ontario, $212,922
  6. Saint-Georges, Quebec, $219,124
  7. Rimouski, Quebec, $227,673
  8. Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, $238,013
  9. Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, $240,191
  10. Sainte-Marie, Quebec, $243,980

10 Best Canadian Cities for Rental Market Affordability & Fewer Expenses (average monthly expenses for a single person, excluding rent)

  1. Trois Rivières, Quebec $670
  2. Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, $695
  3. Saint John, New Brunswick, $698
  4. Saguenay, Quebec, $756
  5. Sherbrooke, Quebec, $788
  6. New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, $795
  7. Kitchener, Ontario, $819
  8. Quebec City, Quebec, $835
  9. Kelowna, British Columbia, $856
  10. Red Deer, Alberta, $861

Ready to pack your bags? As Nesto pointed out, most of these places are located away from huge cities – but living in a smaller town has its benefits.

At the end of the day, you’ve got to do what’s best for you – and spending less? That’s a good start!

Trust your gut and good luck! A big move might be a risk worth taking.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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