Cost of living, salaries, tax rates & quality of life
Quick FactsKey stats and figures for Canada
Capital
Ottawa
Languages
English, French
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Cost of Living
8% below US
Avg. Salary
$ 50k/yr
Timezone
UTC-3.5 to -8
Population
40 million
Expats
8.4 million
Based on Numbeo Quality of Life Index
Compare expenses and earning potential across major cities
| City | Rent | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | CA$2,323 | CA$3,135 |
| Vancouver | CA$2,500 | CA$3,250 |
| Montreal | CA$1,600 | CA$2,230 |
Rent based on 1-bedroom apartment in city center. All values in CAD/month.
Key tax information for Canada
15%-33% (federal) + provincial
15% (federal) + provincial (~26.5% combined)
50% of gains taxed at marginal rate
5% GST + provincial PST/HST
Tax treaties with 90+ countries
What to expect when living in Canada
IELTS or CELPIP for English; TEF for French
Quebec requires French proficiency for many programs
Before You Go
Essential reading for anyone considering the move
Deep DivesThe borderless economy is not a future prediction - it is the operating system of modern work. We explore how the convergence of remote work, talent shortages, and competitive visa policy is dissolving the link between where you live and what you earn.
Deep DivesA data-driven ranking of the top destinations for software engineers, data scientists, and product managers - factoring in visa processing speed, tech salaries, cost-adjusted take-home pay, and quality of life.
Deep DivesThe article the site is missing most - what happens after visa approval. Covers apostille and document legalisation, opening a bank account abroad, health insurance, housing, and registering with local authorities.
Last updated: April 2026
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Cost of living, salary, and quality of life data are estimates based on third-party sources and may vary. Always verify current information with official government sources before making immigration decisions.