Top 5 Canadian vs US Cost of Living Differences [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: Canada generally has a lower cost of living than the US, with exceptions in housing and mobile plans—expect to pay 7-15% less overall. Key differences include cheaper healthcare but pricier groceries, with Toronto/Vancouver being 20% more expensive than comparable US cities like Chicago. Use Evola AI's Success Predictor to model budgets for your specific immigration scenario.

1. Is healthcare cheaper in Canada than the US?

Yes—Canada's public healthcare system eliminates most out-of-pocket costs.

While Americans spend $12,914/year per capita on healthcare (CDC 2023 data), Canadians pay just $7,000 through taxes. Key differences:

• No premiums/deductibles for essential services in Canada
• Prescription drugs cost 40% less (Patented Medicine Prices Review Board)
• Dental/vision remain private (similar to US)

Pro Tip: Evola AI's Immigration Budget Planner factors in provincial health premiums (e.g., BC's $75/month MSP).

2. Which country has more expensive housing?

Canada's major cities cost 15-25% more for housing than US equivalents.

According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the average Canadian home is $716,000 vs. $495,000 in the US (National Association of Realtors). Notable comparisons:

City	Avg. Home Price (USD)	US Equivalent
Toronto	$1,050,000	Chicago ($350,000)
Vancouver	$1,200,000	Seattle ($750,000)
Montreal	$480,000	Boston ($650,000)

Renters save slightly more—a 1-bedroom averages $1,700 in Canada vs. $1,900 in US cities.

3. Are groceries more expensive in Canada?

Yes—Canadians pay 20-30% more for food staples.

Data from Statistics Canada shows these 2024 price differences:

• Milk: $4.67/gal (Canada) vs. $3.32 (US)
• Eggs: $3.90/dozen vs. $2.72
• Bread: $3.25/loaf vs. $2.50

Why? Canada's:

• Supply management for dairy/poultry
• Higher transportation costs
• 5% GST on groceries (some provinces)

4. Which country has better salary-to-cost ratios?

The US offers higher salaries but less worker protections.

A software engineer earns:

• US: $120,000 (Silicon Valley)
• Canada: $85,000 (Toronto)

But Canada provides:
✅ 10+ paid federal holidays
✅ 2 weeks mandated vacation
✅ 18-month parental leave

Use Evola's CRS Calculator to compare job offer impacts on immigration points.

5. How do monthly utilities compare?

Canada wins for internet, loses for mobile plans.

• Internet: $55/month (Canada) vs. $75 (US)
• Mobile: $45/5GB (Canada) vs. $30/unlimited (US)
• Electricity: $0.12/kWh (Canada) vs. $0.16 (US)

According to CRTC reports, Canada's telecom market has less competition, raising mobile costs.

Conclusion: Should You Choose Canada or the US?

Canada balances affordability with social benefits—ideal for families prioritizing healthcare and stability. The US suits high-earners comfortable with private insurance. Either way, Evola AI helps you:

✔ Model cost scenarios with real-time data
✔ Optimize CRS scores for Canadian immigration
✔ Get 24/7 policy updates

"The grass is greener where you water it." Start planning your move today.