ON
vs
QC
Kingston vs Quebec City Cost of Living (2026)
Kingston is about 31% more expensive than Quebec City, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,650 a month in Kingston vs $1,200 in Quebec City.
The Verdict
Living in Quebec City is 24% cheaper than living in Kingston overall.
Kingston / month
$2,145
Quebec City / month
$1,680
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Kingston
$100,000
Take-home $74,206 · $6,184/mo
Needed in Quebec City
$76,166
Take-home $54,676 · $4,556/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Quebec City you'd need $23,834 less a year (−24%).
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
Kingston
$1,650
27% cheaper
Quebec City
$1,200
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Kingston
$410
5% cheaper
Quebec City
$390
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Kingston
$85
6% more expensive
Quebec City
$90
Advertisement
Plan your move
Advertisement