Table of Contents
- Cost of Living in St. John’s Overview
- Housing Costs in St. John’s
- Grocery Prices in 2026
- Transportation Costs
- Utilities and Internet
- Healthcare Costs
- Average Salaries in St. John’s
- Is St. John’s Affordable in 2026?
- Final Thoughts
Cost of Living in St. John’s Overview
The cost of living in St. John’s in 2026 remains relatively affordable compared to larger Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Located in St. John’s, this coastal city offers a slower pace of life, lower housing prices, and a strong sense of community.
However, due to its remote location in Newfoundland and Labrador, some expenses such as groceries and imported goods can be higher.
Average monthly cost (single person): $2,200 – $3,000 CAD
Family of 4: $4,500 – $6,000 CAD
Housing Costs in St. John’s
| Type of Apartment | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom (city center) | $1,100 – $1,500 |
| 1-bedroom (outside center) | $900 – $1,200 |
| 3-bedroom (family) | $1,600 – $2,400 |
Housing is one of the biggest factors in the cost of living. Compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver, rent in St. John’s is significantly cheaper. But keep in mind, housing demand is slightly increasing due to programs like AIP (Atlantic Immigration Program).
Grocery Prices in 2026
Groceries are more expensive than the Canadian average because most products are imported, and logistics are
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Milk (1L) | $2.50 – $3.20 |
| Bread | $3.00 – $4.50 |
| Eggs (12) | $4.00 – $5.50 |
| Chicken (1kg) | $12 – $18 |
| Apples (1kg) | $4 – $6 |
Shopping at budget stores like Walmart or Costco can help reduce costs.
Transportation Costs
St. John’s has limited public transportation compared to larger cities.
Monthly Costs:
- Bus pass: $80 – $90
- Taxi (short ride): $10 – $20
- Gasoline: $1.60 – $1.90 per liter
The main transit provider is Metrobus Transit.
Utilities and Internet
Average Monthly Bills:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity + Heating | $150 – $250 |
| Internet | $70 – $120 |
| Mobile Plan | $50 – $90 |
Providers include Bell Canada and Rogers Communications.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Canada is publicly funded through systems like Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services.
- Doctor visits: Free (for residents)
- Prescription drugs: $10 – $50+
- Dental care: Not fully covered
Average Salaries in St. John’s
Salaries in St. John’s are lower than in major cities, but so are expenses.
Average Income (2026):
- Median salary: $50,000 – $65,000/year
- Minimum wage: ~$15/hour
Industries in demand:
- Healthcare
- IT
- Construction
- Fisheries & logistics
Is St. John’s Affordable in 2026?
Yes — St. John’s remains one of the more affordable cities in Canada in 2026.
Pros:
- Lower rent
- Friendly community
- Less traffic
Cons:
- Higher grocery costs
- Limited job market
- Harsh winters
Final Thoughts
The cost of living in St. John’s in 2026 offers a good balance between affordability and quality of life. While groceries and transportation can be slightly expensive, lower housing costs make it attractive for immigrants, students, and remote workers.
If you’re considering moving to St. John’s, careful budgeting can help you live comfortably even on an average or below-average salary.