Cost of Living in Saskatoon
For individuals planning a move or simply budgeting for life in Saskatchewan, understanding the cost of living in Saskatoon is a crucial first step. In 2025, a single person who rents can anticipate an average monthly expenditure of approximately $3,326 CAD. This figure encompasses essential expenses such as housing, transportation, groceries, and entertainment, positioning Saskatoon as a relatively affordable option when compared to other major Canadian cities.
Calculate the cost of living
A Closer Look at Average Monthly Expenses
The estimated monthly cost of living in Saskatoon for a single renter provides a comprehensive baseline. However, it's important to recognize that individual spending habits and lifestyle choices can significantly influence this figure. For instance, a family of four will naturally have higher expenses, estimated at around $5,610.10 CAD per month, excluding rent.
Without rent, a single person's estimated monthly costs hover around $1,588.70 CAD. These figures highlight Saskatoon's general affordability, particularly when noting that the city is approximately 2.0% less expensive than Toronto (excluding rent), and rent in Saskatoon is, on average, 41.9% lower than in Toronto.
Detailed Breakdown of Key Living Costs in Saskatoon
To better understand where your money might go, let's delve into specific categories that contribute to the overall cost of living in Saskatoon.
Housing Costs
Housing represents the largest portion of monthly expenses in Saskatoon. Choose between renting or owning based on your budget and needs.
Transportation Options
Your transportation choices significantly impact your monthly budget in Saskatoon.
Grocery Expenses
The average single person in Saskatoon spends about $518 CAD monthly on groceries and essentials.
Utility Costs
Monthly utilities for an average 85m² apartment in Saskatoon include electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage.
Leisure & Entertainment
Saskatoon offers various leisure activities with different price points to fit your lifestyle.
Housing: Rental and Ownership
Housing typically represents the largest portion of monthly expenses. For those choosing to rent, the average monthly rent in Saskatoon is around $1,202 CAD. Prospective homeowners, on the other hand, might see average monthly costs associated with home ownership tallying up to approximately $2,133 CAD. Specific rental prices can vary, with a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averaging $1,372.00 CAD per month, while a similar unit outside the centre might cost around $1,201.62 CAD.
Transportation: Getting Around Saskatoon
Transportation costs depend heavily on your preferred mode of travel. Utilizing public transit in Saskatoon will set you back about $236 CAD per month, based on one source, or a monthly pass might be around $83.00 CAD according to more detailed price listings. For those who prefer driving, the monthly expenses, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, can average $626 CAD. A single one-way ticket on local transport is approximately $3.00 CAD, and gasoline hovers around $1.53 CAD per litre.
Groceries and Daily Necessities
The monthly grocery bill for a single person in Saskatoon is estimated to be around $518 CAD. This covers essential food items and household supplies. Prices for common market items include milk (1 litre) at about $3.93 CAD, a loaf of fresh white bread (500g) at $3.77 CAD, and a kilogram of chicken fillets at approximately $17.29 CAD.
Utilities
Monthly utilities, which include basic services like electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m2 apartment, average about $232 CAD according to one overview, while another source suggests around $300.83 CAD. Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) can add approximately $97.86 CAD to your monthly bills.
Leisure, Entertainment, and Dining Out
Budgeting for leisure and entertainment is also part of the cost of living in Saskatoon. On average, individuals might spend around $157 CAD per month on leisure activities. Dining out can add a significant portion, with an estimated $393 CAD per month spent on restaurants. An inexpensive meal might cost $30.00 CAD, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant could be around $120.00 CAD.
Clothing
Expenditure on clothing is relatively modest, averaging about $48 CAD per month. For specific items, a pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar) might cost around $97.88 CAD, and a pair of mid-range Nike running shoes could be $130.83 CAD.
Salary, Affordability, and Tax Considerations
The affordability of a city is intrinsically linked to earning potential. The average salary in Saskatoon is reported as $54,700 CAD annually, which is slightly above the Canadian average. Another source cites an average monthly net salary (after tax) of $3,518.10 CAD. A higher salary, for instance $85,000 CAD, would be 55.4% above the $54,700 average, resulting in an approximate take-home pay of $61,432 CAD after taxes.
Furthermore, the Saskatchewan government's plan to implement a 2.7% indexation in 2025 is expected to provide residents with $40.5 million CAD in annual tax savings, potentially improving overall affordability.
Selected Price Examples in Saskatoon
To offer a more tangible sense of everyday expenses contributing to the cost of living in Saskatoon, the following table provides a snapshot of average prices for various goods and services:
| Item/Service | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $30.00 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | $14.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) | $8.00 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | $5.06 |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | $3.93 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $3.77 |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | $3.00 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | $83.00 |
| Gasoline (1 litre) | $1.53 |
| Basic Utilities (85m2 Apartment) | $300.83 |
| Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited Data) | $97.86 |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $56.42 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | $20.00 |
Important Considerations for Your Budget
While Saskatoon generally offers a lower cost of living than many other major Canadian cities, it is essential to remember that these figures are averages. Individual financial situations, lifestyle preferences, and spending habits will ultimately determine your personal cost of living. Careful budgeting and consideration of your unique circumstances are always recommended when planning your finances in any new city.
Conclusion: Is Saskatoon Affordable for You?
In summary, the cost of living in Saskatoon for 2025 indicates a city that balances urban amenities with relative affordability, particularly when compared to larger Canadian metropolises. With an average monthly cost for a single renter around $3,326 CAD, and various factors like housing, transportation, and groceries detailed above, prospective and current residents can gain a clearer financial picture. The combination of reasonable living expenses and slightly above-average salaries can make Saskatoon an attractive option. Ultimately, whether the cost of living in Saskatoon aligns with your financial goals depends on your personal income and lifestyle choices.
What are your thoughts on the affordability of Saskatoon, or do you have any personal experiences with the cost of living in Saskatoon to share? Your insights could be valuable to others considering this vibrant prairie city!