These Are Canada’s Most Affordable Province With the Best Quality of Life in 2025 Report
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Discover Canada's most affordable provinces in 2025 ranked for cost of living, housing and quality of life. Find which is the best place to settle in Canada.
A new ranking by MovingWaldo, a Montreal based moving company, has identified the most affordable Canadian provinces that offer a high quality of life 2025. The study considers factors such as neighbourhood safety, housing prices, rental cost and the overall cost of living in Canada.
Cost of Living and Housing Prices by Province
The breakdown of the cost of living along with average housing prices, as compiled by MovingWaldo are as follows:
| Province | Avg. Monthly Cost of Living | Avg. Rent (1-Bedroom) | Avg. Property Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $2,411.87 | $845 | $297,000 |
| New Brunswick | $2,341.21 | $1,274 | $308,800 |
| Saskatchewan | $2,531.25 | $1,228 | $344,800 |
| Manitoba | $2,696.70 | $1,381 | $376,770 |
| Prince Edward Island | $2,718.14 | $850 | $365,600 |
| Quebec | $2,665.56 | $1,776 | $525,732 |
| Nova Scotia | $3,101.53 | $2,100 | $564,000 |
The study also further highlights key cities within these provinces that offer an excellent standard of living and provides details on immigration pathways for newcomers.
Immigration Pathways to Canada's Most Affordable Provinces
Foreign nationals seeking to settle in provinces outside Quebec can apply for permanent residency through Canada's Express Entry system. Provincial Nominee Programs provide additional opportunities for those with lower Comprehensive Ranking Systems (CRS) score.
1. Newfoundland and Labrador
Ranked as the most affordable province, Newfoundland and Labrador boosts low living cost, a mix of urban and rural life, and some of the strong industries like mining, hydro and fishing.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
- Express Entry Skilled Worker
- Skilled Worker Category
- International Graduate Category
- International Entrepreneur & Graduate Entrepreneur Categories
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
2. New Brunswick
New Brunswick offers an exceptionally low cost of living (considering extremely low cost of housing and rentals), especially in essential services (like water, gas, and electricity). However, this might as well reflect limited employment opportunities.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
- Express Entry Stream
- Skilled Workers Stream
- Business Immigration Stream
- Strategic Initiative Stream
- Critical Worker Pilot
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
3. Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is well known for its affordability and sunny weather. The province is quite famous for its appealing lifestyle and affordable cost of living
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
- International Skilled Worker Category (Includes Express Entry Subcategory)
- Saskatchewan Experience Category
- Entrepreneur and Farm Category
- International Graduate Entrepreneur Category
Also Explore: Saskatchewan PNP (SINP) Points Calculator
4. Manitoba
Irrespective of the fact that Manitoba has cold winters, some of the best benefits of living in Manitoba include low hydroelectricity rate and a vibrant cultural festivities.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
- Skilled Worker Stream (includes Express Entry Pathway)
- International Education Stream
- Business Investor Stream
5. Prince Edward Island
Despite being Canada's smallest province, Prince Edward Island ranks as the 5th most affordable province in Canada, thanks to its affordable housing options. The province also has abundant natural beauty to explore, along with opportunities for outdoor activities and delectable local cuisines.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
- Express Entry Category (enhanced)
- Labour Impact Category
- Business Impact Category
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
6. Quebec
Although property prices in Quebec are slightly higher than the other provinces, however it is considerably cheaper than provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, the overall cost of living still remains affordable.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- Quebec Skilled Worker Program (paused until June 2025)
- Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) (partial paused until June 2025)
- Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) required before PR application
7. Nova Scotia
While housing is more expensive in Nova Scotia compared to other provinces on the list, it still remains cheaper than Ontario and British Columbia. The province is known for its scenic landscape and vibrant culture.
Immigration Pathways for Skilled Workers
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
- Express Entry Stream (Noah Scotia Experience, Labour Market Priorities)
- Base Stream (occupations in Demand, Entrepreneurs, International Graduates)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Also Explore: Cost of Living in Nova Scotia
Methodology Used to Rank Provinces
MovingWaldo analysed property prices based on the data from the Canadian real estate association and rental prices from Zumper. The cost of living in Canada data was sourced from Numbeo using the largest city in each province as a reference.
Additionally, feedback from new residents regarding job opportunities, healthcare, public transportation and recreational facilities was factored into the rankings.
Immigration to Canada? GetGIS Can Help
This ranking provides valuable insights for those considering a move to Canada, highlighting provinces that offer both affordability and a high standard of living.
If you are also considering moving to Canada for better opportunities, do not forget to seek guidance from GetGIS. Our immigration assistance team is here to help you with all your Canada PR requirements, eligibility verifications, Educational credential assessments, post landing assistance and more.
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