EdmontonvsDubai
Overall
💰+17.6%
Edmonton is 17.6%more expensive
Rent
🏠+66.7%
Housing is 66.7% higher
Dining
🍽️+7.1%
Restaurants 7.1% pricier
Groceries
🛒-10.3%
Food shopping 10.3% less
Comparing the cost of living between Edmonton, Canada and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Edmonton is more expensive than Dubai by approximately 17.6%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Edmonton are lower than in Dubai by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton's city center costs around CA$1,400, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Edmonton costs about the same compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Edmonton versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Edmonton is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$100 compared to AED 350 in Dubai.
Purchasing power in Dubai is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Edmonton.
Grocery shopping in Edmonton is more expensive by approximately 11%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Edmonton can expect to spend approximately CA$695 per month (excluding rent), while in Dubai, the same lifestyle would cost around AED 2,334. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,431 monthly in Edmonton versus AED 8,169 in Dubai. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Edmonton to Dubai, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Dubai to Edmonton requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Edmonton
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Edmonton more expensive than Dubai?
Yes, Edmonton is approximately 17.6% more expensive than Dubai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Edmonton compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Dubai salary when living in Edmonton. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $58,824 in Edmonton for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Edmonton and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 40%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Dubai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Dubai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Edmonton if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Edmonton vs Dubai?
In Edmonton, a single person needs approximately CA$1,795 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$4,331. In Dubai, these figures are AED 7,334 for singles and AED 18,169 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Edmonton and Dubai in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Dubai to maintain your lifestyle from Edmonton
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