Top 5 Cheapest places to live in Nova Scotia with the Best quality of life – 2023

Nova Scotia is one of the Maritime and Atlantic provinces in Canada. With stunning offshore islands, gorgeous beaches, and charming waterfront cities, you won’t be disappointed with the beauty of the province. Living in Nova Scotia is definitely cheaper compared to other provinces in Canada like Ontario or British Columbia. However, if you are looking to maximize your money, here are the top 5 cheapest places to live in Nova Scotia with the best quality of life in 2024.

Cheapest Places to Live in Nova Scotia

Methodology

We based our ranking of the 5 cheapest places to live in Nova Scotia on average property buying cost in December 2023, the average cost of rent in January 2024, and the quality of life. We collected the data from Redfin and Kijiji. To help you compare, as of December 2023, the average cost of buying a property in Nova Scotia is $390,100 and the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,033 as of January 2024.

The “Best quality of life” aspect is measured based on feedback from real people who have moved to this area in our database or real people from trusted online forums. More specifically, we look for positive feedback on job opportunities, quality of education, quality of healthcare, feeling of safety, public transportation, environment (cleanliness), as well as availability of recreational facilities and parks.

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Cheapest places to live in Nova Scotia

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1. Trenton

1. Trenton - Top 5 Cheapest Places to Live in Nova Scotia with the Best Quality of Life – 2024
  • Population: 2,407
  • Average monthly rent: $500
  • Average property buying cost: $160,000

Known for its manufacturing history, Trenton is affordable, with an average property buying cost of $160,000 as of December 2023 and an average monthly rent of $500 as of January 2024. This neighborhood is an ideal haven for families on a budget. Just 1.5 hours from Halifax, NS, Trenton blends natural beauty, recreational offerings, and affordability, making it a desirable place to call home.

Trenton is a small town of 2,407 residents. It has the 565-acre Trenton Steeltown Park with two ball fields, a skateboard park, a tennis court, and the Trenton Minor Sports Community Centre. The park also offers 6.5 km of walking and hiking trails and fishing ponds amidst century-old coniferous trees, which locals can enjoy. During the summer, families can enjoy the family-friendly amenities at Trenton Park, including a playground and a 3000-square-foot family swimming pool. 



Statistics Canada (2021), Redfin (Dec 2023) & Kijiji (Jan 2024)

Trenton, NS

2. Yarmouth

2. Yarmouth - Top 5 Cheapest Places to Live in Nova Scotia with the Best Quality of Life – 2024
  • Population: 7,848
  • Average monthly rent: $1,700
  • Average property buying cost: $202,499

Yarmouth, the regional center of Southwestern Nova Scotia, boasts a population of 7,848 residents, doubling on weekdays due to its bustling local activity. With over 260 years of rich history, 15 parks, and trails, the town is renowned for stargazing. Positioned in southwestern Nova Scotia, it offers an affordable maritime living experience, making it ideal for families—both current residents and potential newcomers—providing a cost-effective lifestyle without compromising the charm of coastal living.

Affordable housing options are available in Yarmouth, with an average property buying cost of $202,499 as of December 2023, and an average monthly rent of $1,700 as of January 2024, making it an attractive choice for families and those seeking budget-friendly living in a vibrant community.


Statistics Canada (2021), Redfin (Dec 2023) & Kijiji (Jan 2024)

Yarmouth, NS

3. Amherst

Top 5 Cheapest Places to Live in Nova Scotia with the Best Quality of Life – 2024
  • Population: 9,548
  • Average monthly rent: $1,033
  • Average property buying cost: $209,900

Amherst, the largest town in Cumberland County, Nova Scotia, is a growing community with 9,548 residents. Positioned as Nova Scotia’s historic border town, it serves as the first stop for visitors from NB and is conveniently located near the Bay of Fundy and Northumberland Shore. Offering affordable living, with an average property buying cost of $209,900 as of December 2023 and an average monthly rent of $1,033 as of January 2024, Amherst is an ideal option for families and individuals seeking budget-friendly housing.

Locals can enjoy various family-friendly amenities like the Amherst Point Bird Sanctuary, Nova Scotia Welcome Centre, Mrs. Pugsley’s Emporium, Deanne Fitzpatrick Studio, and Maritime Mosaic. For active families, Amherst’s community aims to make it the healthiest and most active community in Nova Scotia, providing both cost savings and a focus on community health events.


Statistics Canada (2021), Redfin (Dec 2023) & Kijiji (Jan 2024)

Amherst, NS

4. New Glasgow

4. New Glasgow - Top 5 Cheapest Places to Live in Nova Scotia with the Best Quality of Life – 2024
  • Population: 19,316
  • Average monthly rent: $1,286
  • Average property buying cost: $234,400

New Glasgow is known as a picturesque riverside town with 19,316 residents in northern Nova Scotia and stands as the commercial-service center for the region, embodying the metropolitan hub of the Northumberland Shore with a rich Scottish heritage. Positioned along the East River, it features a scenic riverfront, including the illuminated New Glasgow Marina and the 2.5-mile Samson Trail for outdoor activities that locals can enjoy.

Serving as the gateway to Pictou County and Nova Scotia’s north coast, it’s conveniently reached by car or bus from Halifax. Known for its affordability, New Glasgow offers an average property buying cost of $234,400 as of December 2023 and an average monthly rent of $1,286 as of January 2024, making it an attractive and cost-effective choice for families and individuals seeking a beautiful and budget-friendly place to live, surrounded by natural beauty and family-friendly amenities.


Statistics Canada (2021), Redfin (Dec 2023) & Kijiji (Jan 2024)

New Glasgow, NS

5. Bridgewater

5. Bridgewater - Top 5 Cheapest Places to Live in Nova Scotia with the Best Quality of Life – 2024
  • Population: 8,790
  • Average monthly rent: $1,322
  • Average property buying cost: $354,900

Bridgewater, a town in Lunenburg County with 8,790 residents, offers an affordable living option with an average property buying cost of $354,900 as of December 2023 and an average monthly rent of $1,322 as of January 2024. Making it an attractive choice for families seeking affordability without compromising the quality of life.

Nestled along the LaHave River, outdoor enthusiasts can engage in activities like kayaking, fishing, and sailing, while the town’s wooded parks spanning approximately 100 acres provide space for strolling, sports, and relaxation. The Centennial Trail offers a 5-mile route for hiking and cycling during the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter. Locals mention online that Bridgewater is more affordable than Halifax.


Statistics Canada (2021), Redfin (Dec 2023) & Kijiji (Jan 2024)

Bridgewater, NS

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Conclusion

These towns in Nova Scotia stand out as some of the cheapest places to live in the province. Each town offers its unique charm, affordability, and a range of recreational activities, making them appealing options for families and individuals seeking budget-friendly living without compromising on quality of life. From the picturesque landscapes of Trenton to the historical richness of Yarmouth, the active community focus in Amherst, the riverside beauty of New Glasgow, to the affordability and outdoor opportunities in Bridgewater, these towns provide a diverse range of choices for those considering a move to Nova Scotia on a limited budget. 

Whether it’s enjoying local amenities, outdoor adventures, or community events, these towns present cost-effective living options that make Nova Scotia an attractive and affordable destination for those looking to call it home. Are you moving to Nova Scotia soon? Check the best Long-Distance Movers in Regina!

 

Last year’s ranking (2023)

  1. Trenton
  2. Yarmouth
  3. Amherst
  4. New Glasgow
  5. Bridgewater
  6. Sydney
  7. Truro
  8. Lunenburg
  9. Windsor
  10. Lower Sackville

 

Our rankings are meticulously curated, considering affordability and quality of life. It’s important to highlight that certain places were excluded from last year’s lists due to insufficient rental data. Moreover, entries with higher average housing prices in the previous year were excluded from the current rankings. We encourage readers to weigh these rankings in light of their individual needs and preferences for a more informed decision-making process.

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Ann Nacario

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Meet Ann – our head writer with a knack for making moving and city living a breeze. From the many details of moving to picking the perfect moving company, she’s your guide. Ann has a friendly yet detailed approach to ensure your move goes off without a hitch. When she’s not writing about relocation, it will always be on her mind, but you’ll catch her spending time with her three furry friends.
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