Cost of Living in Canada vs UK
Canada has long been a top choice for those looking to build a new life abroad, around 500,000 new immigrants from all over the world enter Canada each year!
With its stunning landscapes, high quality of life, and welcoming communities, it’s no surprise that thousands of people relocate there each year.
From world-class healthcare to an excellent education system, Canada offers many benefits that make it an attractive place to settle.
One of the country’s standout features is its relatively accessible immigration system. Unlike some nations with strict entry requirements, Canada offers over 100 different pathways for immigrants.
Whether you’re applying through a skilled worker program, a student visa, a family sponsorship, or a business investment route, numerous options are designed to suit different circumstances.
However, with these privileges comes a high cost of living. No matter your reason for leaving the UK, understanding the cost of living in Canada is essential before taking the plunge.
While both countries have many similarities, the cost of everyday essentials, housing, and services can vary significantly between them.
According to recent data from Numbeo, Canada ranks as the 22nd most expensive country to live in, with the UK following at 19, highlighting that while costs are comparable, key differences exist.
If you’re considering relocating to Canada, this guide will provide a clear breakdown of the cost of living in both countries.
Knowing what to expect will help you plan your budget effectively and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Income Comparison
You will quickly find that there are some significant differences when it comes to wages in these two countries.
Many of Canada’s legal immigrants arrive to further their careers, and earning potential is a significant factor in deciding to relocate.
If you have landed a job in Canada, the chances are it will be because you would be earning a higher salary than in the UK.
As a guide, the average annual salary in Canada is approximately CAD 68,250 (£39,998), while in the UK, it’s around £35,464 (CAD 60,514).
This suggests that, on average, Canadians earn more than their UK counterparts.
However, actual salaries vary based on industry, experience, and location.
Randstad, the world’s largest talent company, has released a ranking of the top 15 most in-demand jobs in Canada for 2025.
In-demand jobs are widespread across all sectors.
Check out the website to see if your skills are on the list and what your potential earnings could be.
Housing Costs
Arranging your living situation in Canada will be different cost wise to the UK.
Renting a Home
Renting has become more prevalent in Canada, with the number of renters increasing faster than the number of homeowners in the past decade.
While homeownership rates have declined, renting offers flexibility and affordability for many Canadians, it is a similar story in the UK.
As a new arrival to the country, the first thing that must be sorted is your accommodation.
Staying in a hotel for a while is fine, but you need somewhere a little more permanent, mainly if you have bought your family with you.
Renting a home allows you to test several areas to see if you could live full-time in the location, but what about the cost?
For those considering renting, costs also vary.
In major Canadian cities like Toronto, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages CAD 2,522 (£1,417) per month.
In contrast, a similar apartment in London, UK, costs an average £2,176 (CAD 2,872) per month.
This is not a huge difference, but Canada is cheaper.
Purchasing Property
The housing market differs notably between Canada and the UK regarding cost.
The average home price in Canada is about CAD 722,221(£406,000), whereas in the UK, it’s approximately £290,000 (CAD 516,197).
This indicates that, on average, Canadian homes are more expensive.
However, here again, prices fluctuate significantly depending on the city or province.
If you plan to buy your own home in Canada, you must understand the process.
White & Company have produced a very detailed blog entitled Buying a House in Canada as a British Expat.
It is packed with invaluable, practical information for purchasing a property.
Utility Expenses
You will pay less on average for your utilities in Canada.
There is no getting away from utility bills! Whether you are living in the UK or Canada.
The good news is that Canadians pay less for their services when compared to home so you will definitely make some savings here.
Monthly utility bills, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, for an 85m² apartment average around CAD 140 (£79) in Canada compared to £240 in the UK, a huge difference.
Remember that in most regions of Canada, the weather can be extremely cold in the winter months, so your heating bills will be higher at this time of year.
Transportation Costs
Transportation will typically cost less in Canada.
When it comes to getting around, transportation costs are another expense to factor into your monthly budget.
Whether you drive or use public buses and trains is an associated cost.
A monthly public transport pass in Canada averages CAD 104 (£58.50), while in the UK, it’s about £124 (CAD 221).
Fuel prices are also comparable, with a litre of gasoline costing around CAD 1.61 (£0.90) in Canada and £1.46 (CAD 0.82) in the UK.
Canada wins again, but only slightly.
Another bonus with Canada is that when it comes to purchasing a new car, cost savings can be made by up to 45%.
Clearly, Canada does provide more reasonable travel costs than the UK.
Statistics are taken from Numbeo.
Grocery and Dining Expenses
There are some clear differences between grocery prices.
Grocery prices are relatively similar in both countries, though some items may be cheaper in one country over the other.
Here are some common grocery prices:
Milk, 1 litre Canada $3.06 (£1.72) – UK £1.24
Loaf of bread 500g $3.68 (£2.07) – UK £1.25
Eggs x 1 dozen $4.82 (£2.71) – UK £2.96
Tomatoes 1 kg $5.76 (£3.24) – UK £4.67
Local Cheese 1kg $15.57 (£8.75) – UK £7.15
Potatoes 1kg $3.65 (£2.05) – UK £1.19
Dining out, however, tends to be more expensive in the UK.
A meal at a midrange restaurant in Canada costs about CAD 100 (£56), while in the UK, it’s approximately £116 (CAD 206).
If you can shop at local markets and the cheaper, budget-friendly stores available in Canada, you can assume that food prices are usually on par with those in the UK.
Healthcare Services
Understanding the differences between the Canadian and British healthcare systems is key.
Understanding the healthcare system will ensure that you and your family are covered just in case the worst happens.
Yet again, it is important to note that healthcare services across the country differ within provinces and territories.
While core services are covered, additional services like dental care and prescription drugs may require private insurance or out-of-pocket payments.
As an expat, you will initially need to organise your own health insurance for a period (generally around three months), after which you can apply to join the Canadian publicly funded health care system.
In Canada, healthcare, known as Medicare, is funded through taxes. Most services are free at the point of use, though dental care and prescription medications may require additional insurance.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides a similar model, with most services free but with some charges for prescriptions and dental care.
For most UK expats, some level of private insurance coverage to supplement the public system provision is the norm.
Some provinces do not provide public cover to temporary residents at all, you must become a permanent resident to access it. Make sure you check with your provincial services.
To enter the public system, you must first apply for a health card (also called a Care Card) issued by your province or territory.
Local doctor surgeries are readily available, however some have waiting lists, so it pays to get your name down as soon as possible after your arrival.
If you require a prescription, the average out-of-pocket dispensing fee in Canada is $10.88 (£6.11) per prescription, with most people paying between $4.49 to $13.50.
Here in the UK, the current prescription charge is £9.90 per item.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Government of Canada’s overview of the healthcare system.
Ready to Make the Move to Canada?
We hope that our blog has conveyed the daily living costs you are likely to encounter when you relocate to Canada.
Though costs are “swing and roundabout,” one thing you cannot put a price on is life experience.
Moving to a new country opens the door to exciting opportunities, from career growth to personal development.
It offers a fresh start, exposure to new cultures, and a broader worldview.
You’ll gain independence, adaptability, and lifelong memories while embracing a new lifestyle that could transform your future. And the cost? Priceless!
Use White & Company for a Smooth International Relocation Experience
Moving to Canada is an exciting step, but navigating the logistics can feel overwhelming. That’s where White & Company comes in.
With 155 years of experience in international removals, we specialise in making overseas relocations seamless and stress-free.
As trusted members of BAR, FIDI, and OMNI, our reputation for excellence speaks for itself.
From expert packing to careful transportation, our UK-based teams handle your valued belongings with precision and care, ensuring they arrive safely in your new Canadian home.
Whether you’re moving for work, family, or adventure, let us take care of the heavy lifting.
Contact us today for a free quote, chat with our team, or use our quick quote form.
We’re ready and waiting to make your dream move to Canada a reality!
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s
Before you make the move, you will have lots of questions about international removals.
Here, we answer some of the most commonly asked questions. However, we are only a phone call away if you have more!
How far in advance should I book my international removal to Canada?
It’s best to book at least 8–12 weeks before your planned move to allow time for packing, customs documentation, and shipping arrangements. Peak seasons may require even more notice.
How long does it take to pack a house up for removals to Canada?
The timing depends on the number of belongings you are taking with you. As a guide, packing a three-bedroom family home takes 2-3 days.
International packing takes longer. Your belongings will be travelling for weeks in a container, so they must be skillfully wrapped and loaded to avoid damage in transit.
What items can I ship to Canada, and are there any restrictions?
Most household goods can be shipped as long as they have been owned and used for six months or more. However, Canada restricts certain items, including plants, food, firearms, and hazardous materials.
You can find out more about Canadian customs regulations and restrictions by visiting the Canadian Customs website.
How long does shipping take for household goods from the UK to Canada?
Transit times vary depending on the port of entry, but shipping typically takes 4–8 weeks via sea freight.
Air freight is faster but more expensive, usually taking 7–14 days.
Will my belongings be insured during the move?
White & Company offer comprehensive insurance to cover loss or damage during transit.
Always check what’s included and consider extra coverage for high-value items. If you have any questions about insurance, just ask our home move surveyor.
Can I pack my own belongings?
Absolutely not. Canadian customs will not accept any owner-packed boxes or items.
Can I bring my car to Canada, and how much does it cost to ship?
Yes, but it must meet Transport Canada’s vehicle import regulations. Costs vary but typically range from £3,000 to £5,000, depending on the car’s size, shipping method, and customs duties.
What happens when my shipment arrives in Canada?
Your belongings will go through customs clearance where they will be thoroughly checked for any restricted or prohibited items.
Some items may be inspected, and you may need to be present for clearance in certain provinces.
Most shipments pass this process. Once cleared, your consignment will be handed to our trusted partners, who will contact you to arrange delivery to your new home.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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