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

If you want to experience a different side of Canada in a cheaper, relaxed and friendly atmosphere, head to the Prairies. Both provinces aren’t top destinations for Working Holiday makers but, frankly, they should be.

Average wages in Saskatchewan

The minimum wage is $14 per hour (and it will increase to $15 per hour in October 2024).

Average wages in Manitoba

The minimum wage is $15.30 per hour (and it will increase to $15.80 per hour in October 2024).

Cost of living in Saskatchewan

Cost of living in Saskatoon

Rent prices

According to the CMHC, a bachelor apartment starts from $829 per month and a one-bedroom apartment from $1,090 per month.

Rent tends to be higher in the city centre, as well as on the west and north-east sides.

Public transportation

Saskatoon Transit operates the bus system:

• Single trip: $3
• Day pass: $8.50
• Monthly pass: $83
• Annual pass: $913

For more information, read Fares and passes.

Entertainment

• Restaurants: a meal and a non-alcoholic drink sets you back $25 (plus tax and tip)
• Bars: a beer is $6-$7 and your favourite cocktail $10
• Movie theatre: a ticket is $15

Cost of living in Regina

Rent prices

According to the CMHC, a bachelor apartment starts from $788 per month and a one-bedroom apartment from $1,081 per month.

Public transportation

Regina Transit operates a bus system for the city:

• Single trip, cash fare: $3.25
• 10 single-trip tickets: $29
• 20 single-trip tickets: $55
• Monthly pass: $88

For more information, read Fares and passes.

Food

Meat, fish and produce tend to be slightly more expensive than in most Canadian cities. However, dairy products and eggs are cheaper.

Entertainment

Prices are similar to Saskatoon.

Cost of living in Manitoba

Cost of living in Winnipeg

Rent prices

According to the CMHC, a bachelor apartment starts from $816 per month and a one-bedroom apartment from $1,102 per month.

Winnipeg is surprisingly affordable given the size of the city. Downtown, Lord Selkirk and Midland are usually more affordable while Fort Rouge and Centennial are more expensive.

Public transportation

Winnipeg Transit operates the city’s bus service:

• Single trip: $3.25
• Single trip paid with the peggo card e-pass: $2.90
• Day e-pass: $10.75
• Monthly pass: $111.65

For more information, read Transit fares.

Food

Produce tends to be slightly more expensive than in most Canadian cities. However, dairy products and eggs are cheaper.

Entertainment

• Restaurants: a meal and a non-alcoholic drink sets you back $25 (plus tax and tip)
• Bars: a beer is $7 and your favourite cocktail $9-$13
• Movie theatre: a ticket is $14