Choosing where to live in Canada isn’t just about scenery — it’s about sustainability. Whether you dream of Toronto’s urban buzz or Vancouver’s ocean views, understanding the cost of living in Ontario compared to the cost of living in British Columbia can make or break your settlement plans.

Spoiler alert: both provinces are incredible, but one might be way better for your wallet.

Why Compare Ontario and British Columbia?

Ontario and British Columbia are Canada’s two economic powerhouses. They attract the majority of international migrants, skilled professionals, and students. But while both offer top-tier education, jobs, and healthcare, the day-to-day costs can vary dramatically.

The cost of living in Ontario has risen steadily, especially around Toronto and Ottawa. Meanwhile, the cost of living in British Columbia (particularly in Vancouver) continues to be among the highest in the country — but lifestyle quality often compensates for it.

So, if you’re about to pack your bags, let’s break it down province by province.

Housing: Where Will Your Dollar Go Further?

Ontario:
Housing in Ontario is heavily dependent on city choice. In Toronto, expect rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre to sit around CAD $2,400–$2,800 per month. Move to cities like London, Hamilton, or Windsor, and that number drops closer to CAD $1,600–$2,000.
(Source: rentals.ca)

British Columbia:
Vancouver continues to dominate headlines for housing costs. A one-bedroom downtown averages CAD $2,700–$3,000, while smaller cities like Kelowna or Victoria hover around CAD $2,000–$2,400.
(Source: zumper.com)

👉 If affordability is your top concern, the cost of living in Ontario (especially outside Toronto) may give you more breathing room than the cost of living in British Columbia, where rent competition is fierce year-round.

Transportation & Commuting Costs

Ontario’s transit systems (like the TTC in Toronto and OC Transpo in Ottawa) offer extensive coverage but can be pricey: monthly passes range from CAD $120–$160.
In Columbia Británica, TransLink’s system in Metro Vancouver offers similar pricing — roughly CAD $130–$150 for a monthly pass — but you’ll save more on fuel if you live outside major city cores due to shorter commute times.

Overall, transportation costs even out, though many newcomers find that the cost of living in British Columbia includes less winter maintenance — fewer snow tires, fewer shovels!

Food & Groceries

Groceries are generally more expensive on the West Coast due to shipping distances and fewer large-scale farms.

If you’re moving with a family, the cost of living in Ontario can be slightly lower for everyday food expenses — but BC often makes up for it with more local produce and farmers’ markets year-round.

Salaries & Job Opportunities

According to jobbank.gc.ca, median full-time salaries in Ontario sit around CAD $67,000, while British Columbia averages CAD $65,000. However, wage differences vary by industry.

• Ontario shines in finance, tech, and manufacturing.

• British Columbia dominates in tourism, construction, and green energy.

If you’re in tech or healthcare, the cost of living in British Columbia might be easier to manage thanks to higher salaries in those fields. For traditional corporate or administrative roles, the cost of living in Ontario balances better against average wages.

Utilities, Internet & Childcare

Utilities are another place where costs vary subtly:

Provincial childcare subsidies are expanding, but Ontario’s urban childcare demand is intense — something every newcomer family should plan for.

Taxes & Healthcare

Both provinces benefit from Canada’s universal healthcare system, but their tax structures differ slightly.

• Ontario’s income tax brackets are marginally lower for middle-income earners.

• British Columbia offers carbon tax rebates and lower property taxes in many areas.

Overall, these differences don’t drastically affect the cost of living in Ontario versus the cost of living in British Columbia, but they can influence your long-term savings and housing decisions.
(Source: canada.ca/en/revenue-agency)

Quality of Life: The Deciding Factor

When it comes to lifestyle, both provinces bring their A-game.

• Ontario: Access to big-city culture, diverse communities, and proximity to U.S. markets.

• British Columbia: Breathtaking landscapes, milder winters, and an outdoor lifestyle unmatched anywhere else in Canada.

Many migrants say that even though the cost of living in British Columbia is higher, the mental health and lifestyle trade-off is worth it — if you can afford the rent.

Preguntas frecuentes

Is Ontario or British Columbia more affordable for newcomers?
Generally, Ontario (outside Toronto) offers more affordable housing, while British Columbia tends to have higher daily expenses.

Does higher pay in BC offset costs?
In tech and healthcare, yes. But for most occupations, salaries are roughly comparable across provinces.

Which province is better for families?
Both offer excellent schooling and safety. Families on tighter budgets may prefer Ontario’s smaller cities for cost reasons.

Is Vancouver really that expensive?
Yes — the cost of living in British Columbia spikes dramatically in Metro Vancouver. Rent is the biggest driver.

The Bottom Line

Both provinces offer exceptional opportunities — but your choice depends on priorities.
If you’re chasing affordability, community, and career stability, the cost of living in Ontario might make it your best bet. If you want mountains, ocean air, and don’t mind paying extra for it, the cost of living in British Columbia could be worth every cent.

Wherever you decide to call home, Canada GMC can help make the move smoother.

Book a consultation today to explore your migration options, evaluate provincial programs, and start your journey with expert guidance.