Struggling to decide between Canada and the U.S. for your relocation? Among the reasons why you should move to Canada instead of the U.S, consider the fact that Canada boasts a significantly lower cost of living compared to the U.S, making it a compelling choice for your move.
Both Canada and the U.S. have long been preferred destinations for immigrants due to their high quality of life. While other countries offer similar prospects, these two nations stand out for their economic opportunities and social amenities.
Using a cost of living comparison calculator, we’ll carry out a comparison in both countries, culminating in a conclusion to aid your relocation decision-making process. Whether you’re leaning one way or undecided, this breakdown will aid your decision-making process.
Table of Contents
8 Reasons Why You Should Move to Canada Instead of the U.S
1. Lower Housing Costs
One of the many reasons why you should move to Canada instead of the U.S is because of housing affordability. While housing costs vary across Canada (depending on the region), Canada offers more affordable housing options compared to many parts of the United States.
Here’s a breakdown of housing costs in both countries:
| Canada | United State |
| 1. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Canada is $1,111 CAD. | The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the United States is $1,470 USD. |
| 2. The average rent for a three-bedroom apartment is $1,878 CAD. | The average rent for a three-bedroom apartment is $2,509 USD. |
2. Affordable Food and Grocery Costs
Although dietary preference is a factor to consider, here is a brief breakdown;
| Canada | United State |
| 1. The average cost of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant is $22 CAD. | The average cost of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant is $27 USD |
| 2. The average cost of groceries for a single person in Canada is $300 CAD per month. | The average cost of groceries for a single person in the United States is $250 per month. |
| 3. The average cost of groceries for a family of four is $800 CAD per month. | The average cost of groceries for a family of four is $650 USD per month. |
3. Flexible Transportation Costs
Transportation costs in Canada and the U.S vary depending on the region.
| Canada | United States |
| 1. The average cost of a monthly public transportation pass in Canada is $100 CAD. | The average cost of a monthly public transportation pass in the United States is $80 USD. |
| 2. The average cost of gasoline in Canada is $1.89 CAD per liter. | The average cost of gasoline in the United States is $3.90 per gallon. |
4. Quality and Affordable Education
Studying in both countries comes with unique advantages, however cost of education in Canada seems more affordable than in the United States.
| Canada | United States |
| 1. Limited number of scholarships available but more affordable cost of education. | The US has a myriad of scholarships. |
| 2. For undergraduate studies, it costs between 15,000 and 65,000 CAD. | For undergraduate studies, it costs between 25,000 and 80,000 USD. |
| 3. Doctorate programs cost between 6,000 and 16,000 CAD. | Doctorate programs cost between 28,000–55,000 USD. |
| 4. The average cost of preschool is $834. | The average cost of preschool is $1,245. |
| 5. The average cost of an international primary school for one year is $13,558. | The average cost of international primary school for one year is $15,571. |
5. Reduced Utility Expenses
These includes light, water and internet bills, etc.
| Canada | United States |
| The average monthly cost of utilities for one person is $96 CAD. | The average monthly cost of utilities for one person is $113 USD. |
| Monthly utility bills for a two-bedroom apartment in Canada cost on average $150 CAD. | Monthly utility bills for a two-bedroom apartment in the United States, on average, cost $120 USD. Canada takes the point. |
6. Affordable Healthcare
Amongst the reasons why you should move to Canada instead of the U.S, is Canada’s healthcare system which provides comprehensive coverage for vulnerable populations, including refugees, asylum seekers, and individuals with low income.
Programs such as the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) ensure that all residents have access to essential healthcare services regardless of their immigration status or financial situation.
| Canada | United States |
| Canada has a universal healthcare system which guarantees free healthcare services to citizens and residents. | Residents of the country must purchase health insurance in order to have access to healthcare |
| Immigrants also have access to a publicly funded healthcare system however they may require health insurance pending guaranteed access | The cost of health insurance can vary significantly depending on the individual’s age, health, and location |
7. Sustained Salary Rates
Typically the average salary in the United States tend to be higher compared to Canada, this is because the U.S. economy is larger and offers more opportunities in various industries, leading to potentially higher earning potential for skilled workers.
However, it’s essential to consider the cost of living when evaluating average salaries. While salaries may be higher in the U.S., the cost of living, including housing, healthcare, and education, can also be higher, impacting overall disposable income.
| Canada | United States |
| The average monthly income in Canada before tax is $3,984 CAD, and after tax it is $2,943 CAD. | The average monthly income in the United States before tax is $6,345 USD, and after tax it is $4,687 USD |
8. Favorable Taxation System
Canada’s taxation system may offer certain advantages for individuals, particularly in terms of income taxes and social security contributions. While tax rates vary by province, Canada’s progressive tax system generally results in lower tax burdens for middle and lower-income earners compared to the U.S.
If you enjoyed reading this, you might find our article titled 5 important factors to consider before relocating to a different country interesting.
