TorontovsSydney
Overall
💰+20.0%
Toronto is 20.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+14.3%
Housing is 14.3% higher
Dining
🍽️+20.0%
Restaurants 20.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+13.3%
Food shopping 13.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Toronto, Canada and Sydney, Australia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Toronto is more expensive than Sydney by approximately 20.0%. 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 Sydney by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Toronto's city center costs around CA$2,400, while the same in Sydney is approximately A$3,000.
Dining out in Toronto offers significant savings compared to Sydney. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CA$20 in Toronto versus A$20 in Sydney.
Public transportation in Toronto is more affordable, with monthly passes at CA$156 compared to A$200 in Sydney.
Grocery shopping in Toronto is more affordable by approximately 12%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
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 Sydney, the same lifestyle would cost around A$804. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CA$2,588 monthly in Toronto versus A$2,814 in Sydney. 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 Sydney, 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 Sydney 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
Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Toronto more expensive than Sydney?
Yes, Toronto is approximately 20.0% more expensive than Sydney overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Toronto compared to Sydney?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Sydney salary when living in Toronto. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Sydney, you'd need about $60,000 in Toronto for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Toronto and Sydney?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 17%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Sydney offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Sydney provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Toronto if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Sydney for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Toronto vs Sydney?
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 Sydney, these figures are A$3,004 for singles and A$6,614 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Toronto and Sydney 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 Sydney to maintain your lifestyle from Toronto
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