TorontovsDubai
Overall
💰+6.7%
Toronto is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠+7.1%
Housing is 7.1% higher
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒-6.7%
Food shopping 6.7% less
Comparing the cost of living between Toronto, Canada and Dubai, United Arab Emirates reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Toronto is more expensive than Dubai by approximately 6.7%. 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 Toronto are lower than in Dubai by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in Toronto's city center costs around CA$2,400, while the same in Dubai is approximately AED 8,000.
Dining out in Toronto costs about the same compared to Dubai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Toronto versus AED 40 in Dubai.
Public transportation in Toronto is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$156 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 Toronto.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Toronto can expect to spend approximately CA$739 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$2,588 monthly in Toronto 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 Toronto 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 Toronto 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
Toronto
Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toronto more expensive than Dubai?
Yes, Toronto is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Dubai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Toronto compared to Dubai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Dubai salary when living in Toronto. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Dubai, you'd need about $53,333 in Toronto for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Toronto and Dubai?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 7%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. 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 Toronto if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Dubai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Toronto vs Dubai?
In Toronto, a single person needs approximately CA$2,639 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CA$5,588. 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 Toronto and Dubai in 2025 shows moderate 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 Toronto
Calculate Salary Equivalence