Cost Comparison 2025

EdmontonvsToronto

Canada
Canada

Overall

πŸ’°

+10.3%

Edmonton is 10.3%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+55.6%

Housing is 55.6% higher

Dining

🍽️

+7.1%

Restaurants 7.1% pricier

Groceries

πŸ›’

-3.8%

Food shopping 3.8% less

Comparing the cost of living between Edmonton, Canada and Toronto, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Edmonton is more expensive than Toronto by approximately 10.3%. 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 Toronto by 36%. A one-bedroom apartment in Edmonton's city center costs around CA$1,400, while the same in Toronto is approximately CA$2,400.

Dining out in Edmonton costs about the same compared to Toronto. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$18 in Edmonton versus CA$20 in Toronto.

Public transportation in Edmonton is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$100 compared to CA$156 in Toronto.

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 Toronto, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$739. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,431 monthly in Edmonton versus CA$2,588 in Toronto. 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

Item
Edmonton, Canada
Toronto, Canada

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
CA$1,400
CA$2,400
1BR Outside Center
CA$1,100
CA$1,900
3BR City Center
CA$2,400
CA$4,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
CA$18
CA$20
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
CA$80
CA$100
Cappuccino
CA$5
CA$5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
CA$6
CA$7

πŸ›’ Groceries

Milk (1L)
CA$2
CA$2
Bread (500g)
CA$3
CA$3
Eggs (12)
CA$4
CA$4
Cheese (1kg)
CA$14
CA$15

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
CA$4
CA$3
Monthly Pass
CA$100
CA$156
Taxi Start
CA$4
CA$5
Gasoline (1L)
CA$1
CA$2

πŸ’‘ Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85mΒ²)
CA$200
CA$150
Internet (60 Mbps)
CA$75
CA$80
Mobile Minute
CA$0
CA$0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Edmonton to Toronto, 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 Toronto 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

Cost of Living Index68
Rent Index45
Purchasing Power Index95

Toronto

Cost of Living Index75
Rent Index70
Purchasing Power Index95

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Edmonton more expensive than Toronto?

Yes, Edmonton is approximately 10.3% more expensive than Toronto overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Edmonton compared to Toronto?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Toronto salary when living in Edmonton. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Toronto, you'd need about $55,147 in Edmonton for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Edmonton and Toronto?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 36%, 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?

Toronto offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Toronto provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Edmonton if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Toronto for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Edmonton vs Toronto?

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 Toronto, these figures are CA$2,639 for singles and CA$5,588 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Edmonton and Toronto 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 Toronto to maintain your lifestyle from Edmonton

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 β€’ Data sourced from multiple providers