NS
vs
NB
Halifax vs Saint John Cost of Living (2026)
Halifax is about 62% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,900 a month in Halifax vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 38% cheaper than living in Halifax overall.
Halifax / month
$2,422
Saint John / month
$1,555
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Halifax
$100,000
Take-home $68,867 · $5,739/mo
Needed in Saint John
$61,817
Take-home $47,134 · $3,928/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Saint John you'd need $38,183 less a year (−38%).
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
Halifax
$1,900
42% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Halifax
$440
14% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Halifax
$82
9% cheaper
Saint John
$75
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