BC
vs
ON
Cost of Living: Nanaimo vs Kingston
Making a move? Compare the exact 2026 data for housing, food, and transit to see exactly how your lifestyle budget will change between these two cities.
The Verdict
Living in Kingston is 8% cheaper than living in Nanaimo overall.
To maintain your exact standard of living, a $100,000 salary in Nanaimo is mathematically equivalent to earning $92,433 in Kingston.
Expense Breakdown
Average Rent
1-Bed City Center
Nanaimo
$1,800
8% cheaper
Kingston
$1,650
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Nanaimo
$420
2% cheaper
Kingston
$410
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Nanaimo
$90
6% cheaper
Kingston
$85
Calculate Your Exact Salary
Ready to see how much you'll keep after taxes in ON? Use our Canadian Income Tax Calculator to get a precise breakdown.