NB
vs
ON
Fredericton vs Waterloo Cost of Living (2026)
Waterloo is about 44% more expensive than Fredericton, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,900 a month in Waterloo vs $1,250 in Fredericton.
The Verdict
Living in Waterloo is 44% more expensive than living in Fredericton overall.
Fredericton / month
$1,730
Waterloo / month
$2,430
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 Waterloo
$144,415
Take-home $101,159 · $8,430/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Waterloo you'd need $44,415 more a year (+44%).
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
52% more expensive
Waterloo
$1,900
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Fredericton
$400
8% more expensive
Waterloo
$430
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Fredericton
$80
25% more expensive
Waterloo
$100
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