ON
vs
NB
Ottawa vs Saint John Cost of Living (2026)
Ottawa is about 77% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $2,100 a month in Ottawa vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 44% cheaper than living in Ottawa overall.
Ottawa / month
$2,655
Saint John / month
$1,555
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Ottawa
$100,000
Take-home $74,206 · $6,184/mo
Needed in Saint John
$56,395
Take-home $43,719 · $3,643/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Saint John you'd need $43,605 less a year (−44%).
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
Ottawa
$2,100
48% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Ottawa
$430
12% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Ottawa
$125
40% cheaper
Saint John
$75
Advertisement
Plan your move
Advertisement