The cheapest provinces to live in Canada are generally the Atlantic provinces, with Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island (PEI) often cited as the most affordable due to significantly lower housing, food, and utility costs compared to other regions, though Saskatchewan and Manitoba also offer great value. New Brunswick frequently tops lists for overall affordability, while Newfoundland and Labrador offers very low housing.
The study identified British Columbia, Ontario and Alberta as the provinces with the highest costs of living in 2021, while Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick had the lowest costs of living.
According to the latest data from Statistics Canada and CMHC reports, a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,520 to $2,200 nationally, while two-bedroom units range from $1,900 to $3,200, depending on the city and province.
No, you won't lose your U.S. Social Security benefits if you move to Canada; you can continue to receive them, but you'll need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) and arrange for direct deposit, with some tax implications and potential adjustments, though Supplemental Security Income (SSI) has stricter rules. A U.S.-Canada "totalization agreement" coordinates benefits, and you'll also need to consider your healthcare (Medicare doesn't cover you) and Canadian tax obligations.
Canada's 90% rule helps non-residents and recent immigrants claim full federal tax credits (like the Basic Personal Amount) if 90% or more of their net worldwide income for the relevant tax year is from Canadian sources; otherwise, credits are prorated (reduced) based on their Canadian residency period, ensuring fairness for those who weren't residents all year.
Top 10 most affordable Canadian cities for American expats
Ottawa places first among North American cities in new quality of life rankings. Newly released data designates Ottawa as Canada's most livable city for 2026, providing a high quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
1. Newfoundland and Labrador – The Most Affordable Province. Canada's easternmost province ranks as the most budget-friendly place to live. With low housing costs and an average monthly expense of just over $2,400, it offers a great balance between affordability and quality of life.
Lake Joseph is a sparkling jewel within Ontario's renowned Muskoka Lakes region, celebrated for its serene waters, forested shores, and prestigious real estate. Among its most famous areas is Billionaire's Row, a secluded yet distinguished stretch of shoreline known for its magnificent luxury cottages and estates.
British Columbia. Step into a breathtaking and untamed land where rugged mountains, pristine coastline, and lush rainforests come together in a dramatic and diverse landscape. Explore vibrant cities, wander through ancient rainforests, and spot wildlife in the wild.
Newfoundland and Labrador has two immigration programs for skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to settle here with their families and gain permanent residence. These programs also help local employers find workers. Nominates people for permanent residence.
Can Americans move to Canada permanently? Yes—but it's not automatic. You'll need to qualify through one of Canada's immigration programs, such as Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program, or family sponsorship. Permanent residency must be earned, and citizenship takes additional time and eligibility.
Canadians travelling extensively, living or working abroad may still have to pay Canadian and provincial or territorial income taxes.
For a $70,000 income in Canada (using 2025 rates), you'll pay roughly $13,000 to $20,000 in total taxes (federal, provincial, CPP, EI), depending on your province, resulting in a take-home pay around $50,000-$59,000, with federal tax around 14.5% or 20.5% depending on the portion, plus provincial tax and deductions like CPP and EI.
The $1,200 payment is a one-time direct deposit issued by the Canada Revenue Agency for seniors classified as low income based on their most recent tax return. The payment is not a loan, does not need to be repaid and does not replace existing monthly benefits.
Super Visa: Extended Stays With Family
The Super Visa offers the most practical option for many American retirees who have Canadian children or grandchildren. This multiple-entry visa allows you to stay up to 5 years at a time without renewing your status, with the visa valid for up to 10 years total.
Essential Requirements: How do I qualify for the $16728 Social Security bonus? To qualify for this bonus, you must meet specific criteria: Age Requirements: You must be between your full retirement age and 70 years old. Full retirement age varies by birth year – typically 66-67 for current retirees.
In some cases utilities and services such as water, sewer and garbage removal may be included in the rent. If not you will pay for these directly. The landlord will take care of all the common areas including snow removal from the streets.
Cost of Food Per Month in Canada
In 2022, the national average monthly cost of food for the average Canadian household was $1,065.60. In 2023, the average cost for the same amount of groceries is $1,357.37.