ON
vs
NB
Hamilton vs Saint John Cost of Living (2026)
Hamilton is about 54% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,800 a month in Hamilton vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 35% cheaper than living in Hamilton overall.
Hamilton / month
$2,330
Saint John / month
$1,555
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 Saint John
$64,790
Take-home $48,912 · $4,076/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Saint John you'd need $35,210 less a year (−35%).
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
39% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Hamilton
$420
10% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Hamilton
$110
32% cheaper
Saint John
$75
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