Cost of Living: Toronto vs Edmonton 2026

Quick answer: Edmonton is notably more affordable than Toronto — especially on housing and rent — while Toronto offers higher salaries and big-city amenities. This guide compares housing, transport, groceries, and everyday costs so you can decide which city fits your budget and lifestyle.

Last updated: June 2026.

Dreaming of a change of scenery? Maybe the vibrant energy of Toronto calls to you, or perhaps the wide-open skies of Edmonton beckon. But before you pack your bags, it’s essential to consider the cost of living in each city. After all, your budget plays a big role in determining where you can truly thrive. Below we break down the key expenses in Toronto and Edmonton to help you make an informed decision and embark on your long-distance move with confidence.

The headline difference is housing: a one-bedroom in Edmonton rents for roughly a third less than in Toronto, and the average Edmonton home costs less than half of Toronto’s. Toronto offsets some of that with a larger job market and higher salaries, but on day-to-day spending Edmonton is the more budget-friendly city.

Monthly / one-time cost	Toronto	Edmonton
Average 1-bedroom rent (monthly)	~$2,500	~$1,600
Adult monthly transit pass	~$156 (TTC)	~$100 (ETS)
Utilities (monthly)	~$200–$300	~$150–$250
Daycare (monthly)	~$1,500–$2,000	~$1,000–$1,500
Milk (1 L)	~$4.50	~$4.00
Loaf of bread	~$3.00	~$2.50

Average 1-bedroom rent (monthly)

Toronto: ~$2,500
Edmonton: ~$1,600

Adult monthly transit pass

Toronto: ~$156 (TTC)
Edmonton: ~$100 (ETS)

Utilities (monthly)

Toronto: ~$200–$300
Edmonton: ~$150–$250

Daycare (monthly)

Toronto: ~$1,500–$2,000
Edmonton: ~$1,000–$1,500

Milk (1 L)

Toronto: ~$4.50
Edmonton: ~$4.00

Loaf of bread

Toronto: ~$3.00
Edmonton: ~$2.50

Figures above are market averages drawn from the sources cited throughout this guide (Zolo, CREA, the TTC and ETS, and Numbeo), reviewed as of June 2026. They are not MTS quotes — your own move estimate depends on your home size, dates, and inventory.

How much does housing cost in Toronto vs. Edmonton?

Finding the right place to call home is a top priority, and both Toronto and Edmonton offer diverse housing options. However, their costs can differ significantly. According to data from Zolo, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto sits around $2,500, while a similar unit in Edmonton averages $1,600 (as of June 2026).

When it comes to buying, the gap widens further. The average home price in Toronto hovers around $1.1 million, while Edmonton’s average home price is closer to $490,000 (as of May 2026, per CREA). Of course, these are just averages, and prices vary greatly depending on the specific neighbourhood and type of dwelling.

Average home price: Toronto vs. Edmonton ($CAD, 2026)

Edmonton$490KToronto$1.1M

Source: CREA

Recent market data tells the story: Toronto prices have softened slightly year over year, but affordability remains a real challenge, while Edmonton has held steady at less than half the Toronto average — making it a more attainable option for those seeking homeownership.

Beyond the sticker price, it’s important to factor in other housing-related expenses. Property taxes in Toronto are generally higher than in Edmonton. Additionally, first-time homebuyers in Edmonton may be eligible for incentives and programs that can help with down payments or closing costs.

What does getting around cost in each city?

Getting around efficiently is key, whether you’re commuting to work or exploring your new city. Both Toronto and Edmonton offer public transportation networks, but their costs and coverage differ. In Toronto, a monthly transit pass with the TTC will set you back around $156. Edmonton’s ETS offers a similar pass for approximately $100 (as of June 2026).

Both cities are also investing in transit. Edmonton’s LRT system is undergoing expansion, which could improve commute times and connectivity. Toronto is likewise expanding service, but navigating the city’s traffic can still be a challenge.

If you prefer to drive, be prepared for varying costs. Gas prices tend to fluctuate, but generally, Edmonton enjoys slightly lower prices than Toronto. Car insurance premiums also tend to be higher in Toronto. And don’t forget about parking! Finding affordable parking in downtown Toronto can be a real headache, whereas Edmonton generally offers more accessible and affordable options.

Beyond public transit and personal vehicles, both cities are becoming increasingly bike-friendly. Toronto has an extensive network of bike lanes, and Edmonton’s river valley trails provide scenic routes for cyclists. Consider factoring in these alternative modes of transportation when comparing costs and convenience.

What are everyday expenses like in Toronto vs. Edmonton?

Beyond housing and transportation, everyday expenses play a significant role in your overall budget. While both Toronto and Edmonton offer a high quality of life, the costs of groceries, utilities, and entertainment can vary.

Take groceries, for instance. According to Numbeo, a litre of milk might cost you $4.50 in Toronto, compared to $4.00 in Edmonton. Similarly, a loaf of bread could be $3.00 in Toronto and $2.50 in Edmonton. These small differences can add up over time, especially for larger families. However, both cities have diverse grocery options, from large chains to local markets, allowing you to find deals and shop according to your budget.

When it comes to utilities, be prepared for seasonal variations. Edmonton’s frigid winters can mean higher heating bills, while Toronto summers might lead to increased electricity usage for air conditioning. On average, expect to pay around $200-$300 per month for utilities in Toronto and $150-$250 in Edmonton.

Entertainment costs can also differ. A movie ticket in Toronto might set you back $15, while a similar ticket in Edmonton could be $12. Dining out can also be slightly pricier in Toronto, with an average meal costing around $30 compared to $25 in Edmonton. However, both cities offer a wealth of free or low-cost entertainment options, from festivals and museums to parks and community events.

It’s also wise to budget for ongoing inflation. Food prices continue to rise across Canada year over year, so building a buffer into your budget can help you navigate these rising costs comfortably.

Ultimately, the best city for you depends on your priorities and spending habits. If you enjoy frequenting upscale restaurants and attending live events, Toronto might align with your lifestyle. But if you prefer exploring the outdoors and taking advantage of free or low-cost activities, Edmonton could be a more budget-friendly option.

How do healthcare and childcare compare?

Access to quality healthcare and affordable childcare are essential considerations for anyone relocating, especially families. Fortunately, both Toronto and Edmonton offer publicly funded healthcare systems. In Toronto, residents are covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), while Albertans have access to the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). While both systems provide essential medical coverage, wait times for certain procedures and specialist appointments can vary.

When it comes to childcare, costs can be a significant factor for families. In Toronto, daycare fees can range from $1,500 to $2,000 per month, while Edmonton’s average is slightly lower, around $1,000 to $1,500. Both cities offer various childcare options, from licensed daycare centres to home-based care. It’s essential to research and compare options to find the best fit for your family’s needs and budget.

Both Ontario and Alberta have implemented initiatives aimed at improving affordability and accessibility under the federal Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system.

Ontario: Ontario has capped parent fees at a maximum of $22 per day for eligible children in CWELCC-enrolled centres, effective January 1, 2025. The program also includes affordability grants to licensed providers and higher family income thresholds for Child Care Subsidy eligibility, and the CWELCC agreement has been extended through the end of 2026.

Alberta: Alberta also has a $10-a-day childcare plan in place, with funding from the federal government. This agreement aims to create more affordable childcare spaces and reduce fees for families.

Stay informed about these programs and policies as you plan your move.

What does the Toronto-to-Edmonton move itself involve?

Cost of living tells you what life looks like once you arrive — but the move between these two cities is a major project in its own right, and it’s where our crews spend their days. Toronto and Edmonton sit roughly 3,470 km apart by road, a cross-country haul that spans four provinces. That distance is the single biggest factor in a long-distance move: pricing is driven mainly by the weight or volume of your shipment and the kilometres travelled, so the most effective way to control your budget is to move less.

That’s also where the cost-of-living gap works in your favour. If you’re heading from Toronto to Edmonton’s larger, cheaper homes, you may be tempted to ship everything — but bulky, low-value items (old mattresses, flat-pack furniture, basement clutter) often cost more to transport than to replace once you arrive. We routinely advise long-distance clients to declutter before the estimate, get a proper inventory done, and decide deliberately what’s worth the kilometres.

A few things to expect on a corridor this long: transit time is typically measured in days rather than hours, your belongings may travel on a shared trailer alongside other shipments to keep costs down, and good packing matters more than on a local move because everything is handled and re-handled over thousands of kilometres. Plan for a delivery window rather than a single delivery day, and keep essentials with you for the gap. For a personalized, no-obligation estimate based on your actual inventory and dates, use our moving calculator rather than relying on the market averages above.

Which city should you choose?

So, which city comes out on top in this cost-of-living showdown? The truth is, there’s no single winner. Both Toronto and Edmonton offer unique advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities and financial situation.

As we’ve seen, Toronto generally has a higher cost of living across most categories, from housing and transportation to everyday expenses. However, it also boasts a larger job market, a wider range of cultural attractions, and a vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Edmonton, on the other hand, offers a more affordable lifestyle, especially when it comes to housing. It also boasts stunning natural landscapes, a strong sense of community, and a growing economy.

To make the best decision for your move, consider these key factors:

Your budget: Be realistic about your financial resources and how they align with the cost of living in each city.

Your career goals: Research the job markets in both cities and see which one offers better opportunities in your field.

Your lifestyle preferences: Do you crave the hustle and bustle of a big city, or do you prefer a more laid-back pace?

Your priorities: What’s most important to you - affordable housing, access to outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, or career opportunities?

By carefully weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision that sets you up for success and happiness in your new city.

Ready to take the leap?

MTS Moving is here to help you every step of the way. Use our moving calculator to estimate your relocation costs, explore our range of services, and let our experienced team handle the logistics while you focus on the excitement of your new adventure. Whether you choose Toronto or Edmonton, we’ll ensure your move is smooth, stress-free, and filled with possibilities.

How we sourced these figures

The cost figures in this guide are market averages compiled from the Canadian-focused providers listed below and reviewed as of June 2026. Rents come from Zolo and Zumper, home prices from CREA, transit fares from the TTC and ETS directly, and grocery and everyday costs from Numbeo. Figures change as markets move, so treat them as a planning baseline rather than a quote.

Zolo (Toronto rent data): https://www.zolo.ca/toronto-real-estate/1-bedroom-apartments-for-rent

Zumper (Edmonton rent data): https://www.zumper.com/rent-research/edmonton-ab

RentFaster.ca: https://www.rentfaster.ca/rent-report/

Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB): https://trreb.ca/

Realtors Association of Edmonton: https://realtorsofedmonton.com/market-stats/

Government of Ontario Property Taxes: https://www.ontario.ca/page/property-tax-0

City of Edmonton Property Taxes: https://www.edmonton.ca/residential_neighbourhoods/property-taxes

TTC: https://www.ttc.ca/

ETS: https://www.edmonton.ca/edmonton-transit-system-ets

GasBuddy: https://www.gasbuddy.com/

Rates.ca: https://rates.ca/resources/heres-how-much-car-insurance-costs-your-province

Numbeo: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/