Ever wondered about the Cost of Living in Halifax? Well we have put together some guidelines about that just for you!
Before you get too carried away, let’s talk about something less picturesque but equally important—the cost of living. And hey, don’t worry; we’ll make this as fun as possible.
Halifax. Is the city affordable enough?
Your wallet might finally have a chance to breathe and stop being perpetually empty! 
Before packing your bags and moving to this East Coast gem, it’s crucial to understand the cost of living in Halifax. In 2024, costs might surprise you—some pleasantly, others not so much.
Whether you’re planning to rent, buy, or even start a family here, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to make informed decisions.
So, buckle up, and let’s dive…
Ever wondered what it costs to rent or buy a home in Halifax? Well, wonder no more because we’ve got you covered. And trust us, it’s not as scary as Toronto or Vancouver.
Let’s start with renting. If you’re thinking about moving to Halifax, you’re probably curious about rental prices. The good news? Halifax offers relatively affordable rent compared to other major Canadian cities.
Want to save a few bucks? Consider living outside the city center where rents are generally lower.
Now, let’s talk about buying a home. While Halifax isn’t as expensive as Toronto or Vancouver, prices are on the rise.
The average cost of a home in Halifax-Dartmouth is $531,200 as of July 2024, according to CREA statistics.
Property taxes in Halifax are another key consideration. The rate is currently 1.227% of your home’s assessed value.
For a $530,900 home, that’s about $6,509.35 annually, or $542.45 per month.
Don’t forget about homeowner’s insurance, maintenance costs, and utility bills—they all add up!
The cost of living in Halifax isn’t just about rent or mortgage payments; it’s the whole package. And speaking of packages, do yourself a favor and get a fire extinguisher for that new home. You’ll thank us later!
Utilities can be a bit of a wild card. Electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection for a 915 sq ft apartment in Halifax will run you about $260.00 per month.
Internet is another must-have in today’s digital age, and a solid 60 Mbps connection with unlimited data will cost you around $110.00 per month.
Utilities | Approx. Cost (Monthly) |
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | $260.00 |
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data) | $110.00 |
Total | $370.00 |
Note: Prices can vary depending on your provider and usage. Nova Scotia Power is the main electricity provider, and they’ve been known to keep things interesting with occasional rate hikes.
Click here to read the article: Movers in Halifax: Insights, Pros, Cons for Cost-Effective & Stress-Free Relocation.
Food—the one expense we all love to hate. But in Halifax, it’s not too bad, considering you’re getting fresh Atlantic seafood.
Grocery shopping in Halifax can be fairly affordable, especially when compared to larger cities. Essential food items like eggs, vegetables, meat, and fish are tax-exempt, making your grocery runs a bit lighter on the wallet.
Grocery Items | Cost |
Milk (1 gallon) | $10.72 |
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb) | $3.09 |
Rice (1 lb) | $2.66 |
Eggs (12) | $4.84 |
Local Cheese (1 lb) | $6.86 |
Chicken Filets (1 lb) | $7.14 |
Beef Round (1 lb) | $6.48 |
Apples (1 lb) | $2.47 |
Bananas (1 lb) | $0.99 |
Oranges (1 lb) | $2.23 |
Tomatoes (1 lb) | $2.61 |
Potatoes (1 lb) | $1.60 |
Onions (1 lb) | $1.56 |
Lettuce (1 head) | $3.45 |
The average monthly cost of groceries in Halifax is approximately $340.00. If you’re a foodie who loves to cook at home, this is good news. And if you’re more into takeout, don’t worry—Halifax has some fantastic restaurants, but more on that later!
Dining out in Halifax can be a treat without breaking the bank. A mid-range meal for two at a restaurant will cost you around $50.00, while a fast food combo is about $10.00.
Do you like seafood? Well, well well…Halifax has some of the best seafood restaurants in Canada, and the prices are fairly reasonable.
Pro Tip: Save dining out for special occasions, and try to cook at home more often. Your wallet—and your waistline—will thank you. 
When it comes to grocery shopping, you have options. Local markets like the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market offer fresh, locally-sourced produce at reasonable prices.
Plus, it’s a great way to support local farmers and get the freshest ingredients.
On the other hand, supermarkets like Sobeys and Atlantic Superstore offer convenience and a wider selection of goods. While you might pay a bit more, you can’t beat the convenience of a one-stop shop.
Note: Some items, especially imported goods, can be more expensive due to transportation costs. If you’re looking to save, stick to local products whenever possible. And hey, shopping at the farmers’ market is also a great way to meet your neighbors.
You never know, you might just find a new friend over a basket of fresh 
apples!
Getting around Halifax is fairly easy, whether you prefer public transit, driving, or even cycling. But what will it cost you? Let’s break it down.
Halifax Transit operates the city’s public transportation system, which includes buses, ferries, and Access-A-Bus services. The regional express metro on routes 320, 330, and 370 offers efficient connectivity across the city.
Type of Fare | Rate |
Single Ticket (Bus and Ferry) | $2.75 |
10 Tickets | $18.00 |
Monthly Pass | $82.50 |
Single Ticket (Regional Express) | $4.25 |
The Halifax Transit monthly pass price is $82.50, making it a cost-effective option if you regularly use public transportation.
If you prefer to drive, owning a vehicle in Halifax will come with its own set of costs. Car insurance in Halifax averages about $1,300 per year. Gas prices fluctuate but tend to be around $1.40 per liter. Add in maintenance and parking fees, and you’re looking at a significant monthly expense.
Between public transit and cycling, you could save a lot of money and avoid the hassle of parking. 
Healthcare is another important factor when considering the cost of living in Halifax. Nova Scotia has a robust public healthcare system, but there are still some out-of-pocket expenses you’ll need to plan for.
In Halifax, residents are covered by the Nova Scotia Medical Services Insurance (MSI) plan. This provincial plan covers most essential medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and some dental and optometrist services.
The best part?
It’s free for residents. However, you might still want to consider supplemental health insurance for services not covered by MSI.
If you’re not covered by an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, you might need to purchase private insurance. Costs for private health insurance can range from $50 to $300 per month, depending on your coverage needs and personal factors like age, gender, and lifestyle.
Type of Healthcare | Approx. Cost (Monthly) |
Employer-sponsored Health Insurance | $63.00 |
Non-employer-sponsored Health Insurance | $50.00 – $300.00 |
Gym Membership | $65.00 |
While MSI covers most essential services, you’ll still need to budget for some out-of-pocket expenses. These might include prescription medications, dental care, and specialized treatments like physiotherapy or chiropractic care.
Planning to raise a family in Halifax? You’ll need to consider the costs of childcare and education, which can add up quickly.
Childcare is a significant expense for families in Halifax.
Daycare can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,200 per month, depending on the age of your child and the type of care you choose. Preschool and after-school programs are similarly priced, though some government subsidies are available to help offset costs.
Public education in Halifax is free, but you may encounter costs for school supplies, extracurricular activities, and field trips. If you prefer private education, expect to pay tuition fees that can range from $5,000 to $20,000 per year.
Halifax is home to several reputable universities and colleges, including Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University. Tuition fees vary depending on the program, but you can expect to pay around $7,000 to $15,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
Don’t forget to budget for textbooks, which can cost upwards of $1,000 per year.
Halifax is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With its beautiful parks, beaches, and walking trails, you can enjoy many recreational activities for free or at a low cost.
The gym, a membership will cost you around $65.00 per month.
Want to know how to save money 
in Halifax?
Just stand by the harbor—watching those beautiful sunsets is free, and they never get old! 
In addition to basic utilities, you’ll need to budget for internet, cable, and mobile phone plans.
As mentioned earlier, basic utilities for a 915 sq ft apartment in Halifax will cost you around $250.00 per month.
For internet, expect to pay $110.00 per month for a solid connection with unlimited data. Mobile phone plans can range from $40 to $100 per month, depending on your data needs and provider.
Pro Tip: Bundle your internet, cable, and phone services to save money. Just make sure to read the fine print—some deals aren’t as good as they seem! 
Halifax experiences cold winters and mild summers, which can affect your utility bills. Heating costs will rise in the winter, so budget accordingly. The good news? You can offset some of those costs by using energy-efficient appliances and taking advantage of government rebates.
Taxes are a part of life, and Halifax is no exception. Understanding the tax structure will help you manage your finances better.
Nova Scotia has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 8.79% to 21%. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Nova Scotia also has a 15% Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which applies to most goods and services. This includes everything from clothing and electronics to dining out and entertainment. However, some essentials like basic groceries are exempt from HST.
Property taxes, as mentioned earlier, are 1.227% of your home’s assessed value. In addition to property taxes, you may also encounter local taxes for services like waste management and infrastructure maintenance.
How does Halifax compare to other Canadian cities? Let’s take a look.
Halifax is more affordable than major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. For example, renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Halifax costs about $1,500, compared to $2,500 in Toronto.
City | 1-Bedroom Rent (Monthly) | Grocery Costs (Monthly) | Utilities (Monthly) |
Halifax | $1,500.00 | $340.00 | $350.00 |
Toronto | $2,500.00 | $400.00 | $400.00 |
Calgary | $1,300.00 | $350.00 | $370.00 |
Living in the heart of Halifax has its perks—close to work, nightlife, and cultural activities. However, suburban or rural areas offer more space, lower rent, and a quieter lifestyle. It’s all about what you value most in your living situation.
Halifax is the most expensive city in Nova Scotia, but it also offers the most opportunities for work, education, and entertainment. Compared to rural Nova Scotia, Halifax’s cost of living is higher, but so is the quality of life.
Don’t forget the little things—they add up!
Budget around $200 per month for clothing, personal care items, and household goods. Halifax has plenty of shopping options, from malls to local boutiques, so you can find what you need at a price that fits your budget.
As mentioned earlier, car insurance averages $1,300 per year, and homeowners’ insurance is about $800 per year. Health insurance costs vary but plan for around $65.00 per month if you have an employer-sponsored plan.
Life happens, and unexpected expenses are inevitable. Whether it’s a car repair, medical bill, or surprise fee, having an emergency fund is crucial. Aim to save at least 3 to 6 months’ worth of expenses.
Want to live comfortably in Halifax without breaking the bank? Here are some tips.
Halifax has plenty of resources to help you live affordably. From food banks to community centers offering free activities, there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality of life.
Take advantage of community support services like free workshops, job training, and healthcare clinics. These services can help you stretch your budget further and make the most of your time in Halifax.
If you are interested in “Affordable Cost of Living in Canada: Halifax vs. Montreal” click here.
Living in Halifax offers a mix of affordability, quality of life, and cultural richness that’s hard to beat. While the cost of living in Halifax is rising, it remains lower than in many other major Canadian cities.
Halifax is a city where you can enjoy beautiful waterfront views, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of job opportunities without the overwhelming costs associated with cities like Toronto or Vancouver. It’s a place where you can find balance, both in your budget and your lifestyle.
If you’re considering moving to Halifax, now’s the time to explore this charming city. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and affordability, Halifax could be the perfect place to call home.
So, what are you waiting for? Start packing those bags, and don’t forget your raincoat—it’s still the East Coast, after all! 
Here are some more tips and tricks!
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The average cost of living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, can vary depending on several factors, but generally, it’s estimated to be around CAD 2,500 to CAD 3,000 per month for a single person, including rent.
Prices in Halifax are generally lower than in other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver. The cost of housing, in particular, is more affordable in Halifax, making it a popular choice for many relocating to the province.
The average rental cost per month in Halifax can vary. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center usually costs around CAD 1,300, while the same outside the city center might be around CAD 1,000.
The cost of transit in Halifax is relatively affordable. A monthly transit pass costs around CAD 82, which is part of the overall living expense and can be a significant factor in determining the total cost per month.
Common expenses to consider include housing, groceries, utilities, transit, and entertainment. It is important to factor these into your estimate to get a comprehensive understanding of the average cost of living.
International prices may influence the cost of living in Halifax, particularly in terms of imported goods and services. However, Halifax generally enjoys a lower cost of living compared to many European and North American cities.
Halifax is often considered a pleasant and welcoming choice for immigrants. The cost of living is relatively lower compared to other major cities, and the province has policies in place to support new immigrants, making the relocation process smoother.
You can get a detailed list of living expenses by researching online resources, consulting with relocation services, and connecting with local residents. This will help you understand specific costs and steps for a successful move.
Factors to consider include housing costs, utility bills, groceries, transportation, healthcare, and education. Each of these elements will contribute to determining your overall budget and ensuring you have a clear financial summary for your move.
The weather in Halifax can have a minor impact on the cost of living, particularly in terms of heating costs during the colder months. However, the overall effect on your budget is generally manageable and doesn’t significantly alter the average cost of living.
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