ON
vs
ON
Hamilton vs Oshawa Cost of Living (2026)
Oshawa is about 8% more expensive than Hamilton, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,950 a month in Oshawa vs $1,800 in Hamilton.
The Verdict
Living in Oshawa is 8% more expensive than living in Hamilton overall.
Hamilton / month
$2,330
Oshawa / month
$2,500
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Hamilton
$100,000
Take-home $74,206 · $6,184/mo
Needed in Oshawa
$107,538
Take-home $79,371 · $6,614/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Oshawa you'd need $7,538 more a year (+8%).
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
Hamilton
$1,800
8% more expensive
Oshawa
$1,950
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Hamilton
$420
0% more expensive
Oshawa
$420
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Hamilton
$110
18% more expensive
Oshawa
$130
Advertisement
Plan your move
Advertisement