How expensive is life in Canada? A 2019-2020 cost of living review by province and territory

Cost of living in Yukon and in the Northwest Territories

There’s plenty of land available, yet the cost of living is relatively high in Yukon and in the Northwest Territories. Rent is particularly expensive and finding affordable housing is a challenge. It’s common to rent a room from a local and to find a place through word-of-mouth, which is why we have less data available. If you venture up North, do share your experience with us!

Minimum wages

As of April 1, 2019, the minimum wage in Yukon is $12.71 per hour.

As of April 1, 2018, the minimum wage in the Northwest Territories is $13.46 per hour.

Cost of living in Whitehorse (Yukon)

Rent prices

In Whitehorse, Yukon’s biggest city, expect to pay $750 per month for a bachelor apartment and $950 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. A room in a shared house should start around $500 per month.

Public transportation

Whitehorse Transit operates the city’s bus system:

• Single trip: $2.50
• 10 single trips: $23
• Monthly pass: $62

For more info, read Fares.

Entertainment

• Restaurants: a meal and a non-alcoholic drink set you back $18 (plus tax and tip). Fancier restaurants are around $75-$120.
• Bars: a beer is $5-$6
• Movie theatre: a ticket is $10
• Cigarettes: $14 for a pack of 20

Cost of living in Yellowknife (Northwest Territories)

Rent prices

According to the CMHC, a bachelor apartment is $1182 per month and a one-bedroom apartment is $1451 per month … yes, affordable housing is an issue in Yellowknife and food (especially produce, dairy products, etc.) is very expensive as well. However, wages are generally higher.

Public transportation

Yellowknife Transit provides a bus service for the city:

• Single ticket: $3
• Monthly pass: $75

For more info, check Fares.

As of November 2019, gas was $1.31/litre.

Entertainment

• Restaurants: a meal and a non-alcoholic drink sets you back $20 (plus tax and tip).
• Bars: a beer is $7
• Movie theatre: a ticket is $13 (enjoy a discounted $7 on Tuesdays and $9 matinees!)
• Cigarettes: $14 for a pack of 20t