QC
vs
NB
Quebec City vs Saint John Cost of Living (2026)
Quebec City is about 8% more expensive than Saint John, mostly because of rent. A 1-bedroom rents for $1,200 a month in Quebec City vs $1,100 in Saint John.
The Verdict
Living in Saint John is 8% cheaper than living in Quebec City overall.
Quebec City / month
$1,680
Saint John / month
$1,555
Rent, groceries and transit for one person.
Salary match: what you'd need to earn
Salary in Quebec City
$100,000
Take-home $69,585 · $5,799/mo
Needed in Saint John
$92,381
Take-home $66,224 · $5,519/mo
To keep the same lifestyle in Saint John you'd need $7,619 less 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
Quebec City
$1,200
8% cheaper
Saint John
$1,100
Groceries
Monthly Basket (1 Person)
Quebec City
$390
3% cheaper
Saint John
$380
Transportation
Monthly Transit Pass
Quebec City
$90
17% cheaper
Saint John
$75
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