NB
vs
NB
Fredericton vs Saint John Cost of Living (2026)
Fredericton is about 12% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,250 a month in Fredericton vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 11% cheaper than living in Fredericton overall.
Fredericton / month
$1,730
Saint John / month
$1,555
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Fredericton
$100,000
Take-home $71,215 · $5,935/mo
Needed in Saint John
$89,225
Take-home $64,157 · $5,346/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Saint John you'd need $10,775 less a year (−11%).
Take-home is after 2026 federal and provincial income tax, CPP/QPP and EI for an employee. Cost of living weighs rent, groceries and transit.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Fredericton
$1,250
12% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Fredericton
$400
5% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Fredericton
$80
6% cheaper
Saint John
$75
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