Top 5 Cheapest places to live in Canada with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $875
• Average property buying cost: $234,834

From art galleries to the Grey Rock Casino, you won’t be disappointed by the variety of activities you can enjoy in Edmundston. What makes Edmundston unique is that it is one of the most Francophone towns outside the province of Quebec. Over 90% of the population in Edmundston are French speaking, as their first language.

Edmundston is not only known as a university town but as the business centre for Madawaska. Locals appreciate that the city is located right next to the United States border, making Maine easily accessible by car. It is also conveniently close to the province of Quebec, making day trips to Quebec City possible. Residents have noted that the city is a great place to raise a family, thanks to educational institutions like Saint Mary’s Academy and École Notre-Dame.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $875, and the average property price is $234,834 as of December 2023.

Zillow (Dec 2023) & Realtor.ca (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,211
• Average property buying cost: $234,900

Lloydminster is located directly on the border of the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta. Equipped with its own airport known as the Lloydminster Municipal Airport, the city offers its residents close shopping in Edmonton, which is a two-hour drive, or in Saskatoon, which is a three-hour drive.

Locals have noted that there aren’t many entertainment options in Lloydminster, but this is what adds to its beauty as residents are surrounded by nature. There are plenty of outdoor summer activities for children to enjoy at Kinsmen Participark, and for adults, the city has its own golf course, the Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre.

As of December 2023, the average property price is $234,900 and 1-bed apartments are renting for around $1,211.

Zumper (Dec 2023) & Realtor.ca (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,139
• Average property buying cost: $285,900

Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, is known as the perfect family haven due to its easy accessibility to the city in less than 20 minutes. Not only is Regina an affordable city to live in, but it also has a small-town feeling, as noted by many locals. If you are looking to integrate into the community, Regina is the perfect city due to its large golf culture at the Royal Regina Golf Club.

It is important to note that many residents have explained that Regina is a city for a more mature audience as it is a government town. Residents also mentioned that the University of Regina is very focused on the fine arts department, so there are always art galleries open to the public, making for a perfect pastime.

As of December 2023, the average property price is $285,900 and 1-bed apartments are renting for around $1,139.

Zumper (Dec 2023) & Realtor.ca (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,181
• Average property buying cost: $265,254

Winnipeg, also known as the Gateway to the West, is the capital and largest city of Manitoba. As noted by many locals, if you are looking to settle in a city that has a small town feel, Winnipeg is the perfect place for you. The weather here can be quite extreme, with winters as cold as -21 °C and summers as warm as 26 °C, so be prepared to dress accordingly!

Many locals rave about Winnipeg’s fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities, especially at Assiniboine Park. The city also offers numerous high quality educational institutions, such as Sisler High School and Gordon Bell High School.

As of December 2023, the average property price is approximately $265,254, with 1-bedroom apartments renting for around $1,181.

Zumper (Dec 2023) & Realtor.ca (Dec 2023)

• Average 1-bed apt rent: $975
• Average property buying cost: $299,000

Saint John is a beautiful city with a view of the Bay of Fundy. It has many beaches that are perfect for outdoor activities, such as Saints Rest Beach and McLarens Beach. Locals have noted that Saint John is not a walkable city, so it is suggested to have a vehicle on hand if you are thinking of moving here.

It is recommended to visit uptown Saint John, as this is where you will find restaurants and bars—perfect for a weekend activity. Saint John is also full of history and culture, being Canada’s oldest incorporated city!

As of December 2023, the average property price is $299,000, and the cost of renting a 1-bed apartment is around $975.

Zumper (Dec 2023) & Realtor.ca (Dec 2023)