Cost of Living in Laval

The cost of living in Laval, Quebec, for a single person renting accommodation is estimated to be approximately C$3,435 per month in 2025. This figure encompasses essential expenses such as housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, and entertainment, providing a baseline for individuals planning their budget in this vibrant Canadian city. While this is an average, actual costs can vary based on lifestyle choices and specific needs. It's also noted that the minimum required amount for living expenses for an individual aged 18 and over for the year 2025 is C$15,508, which serves as a fundamental financial threshold.

Detailed Breakdown of Living Expenses in Laval

Understanding the specific components of the cost of living in Laval is crucial for effective financial planning. Below, we delve into the primary categories of expenditure you can expect.

Housing: Renting and Owning Property in Laval

Housing typically represents the most significant portion of monthly expenses. In Laval, the average monthly cost for rental housing is around C$1,500. For those considering purchasing property, the average monthly cost associated with owned housing, including mortgage payments and related expenses, is approximately C$1,918.

More specifically, renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre can average C$1,632.50 per month, while a similar apartment outside the centre might cost around C$1,500. For larger families, a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages C$2,266.67, and C$1,700 outside the city centre. If you are looking to buy, the price per square meter for an apartment in the city centre is approximately C$4,305.56.

Transportation Costs: Getting Around Laval

Transportation expenses vary significantly depending on your preferred mode of travel. For users of public transit, the cost is about C$283 per month, though a regular monthly pass can be found for around C$114.00. If you rely on a personal vehicle, driving expenses, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, average approximately C$639 per month. A one-way ticket on local transport is about C$3.88, and gasoline prices hover around C$1.64 per litre. Those considering purchasing a new vehicle might look at prices like C$33,978 for a Volkswagen Golf or C$29,513 for a Toyota Corolla Sedan.

Groceries and Food Prices

Residents of Laval typically spend around C$513 per month on groceries. This figure can fluctuate based on dietary preferences and shopping habits. Dining out is also a factor, with an average monthly spend on restaurants around C$358. An inexpensive meal at a restaurant might cost about C$24.50, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant could be C$100.00.

To provide a clearer picture of groceries Laval price points, here is a table of common items:

Item	Average Price (C$)
Milk (regular), 1 litre	3.23
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)	3.97
Rice (white), 1kg	4.45
Eggs (regular), 12 pack	4.63
Local Cheese (1kg)	16.13
Chicken Fillets (1kg)	17.33
Beef Round (1kg)	21.39
Apples (1kg)	5.82
Bananas (1kg)	2.20
Tomatoes (1kg)	6.09

Utilities: Essential Monthly Services

Monthly utility costs, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m2 apartment, average around C$116 to C$140.14. Internet services (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data) typically cost about C$61.40 per month, and a mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB+ data can be around C$57.89.

Leisure, Entertainment, and Personal Spending

The average expenditure on leisure and entertainment in Laval is approximately C$115 per month. This can include activities such as going to the cinema (around C$15.00 per seat for an international release) or membership at a fitness club (monthly fee for one adult around C$42.00). Spending on clothing averages about C$44 per month, with items like a pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar) costing C$75.00, and a pair of mid-range running shoes (Nike) around C$139.10.

Childcare Expenses

For families with young children, childcare is an important consideration. A private preschool or kindergarten, full day, can cost monthly around C$953.33 per child. For older children, an international primary school may cost approximately C$7,938.46 per year per child.

Understanding Salaries and Affordability in Laval

The affordability of living in Laval is directly linked to average income levels. The Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) in Laval is reported to be around C$3,368.26 by some sources, while other aggregators state a median after-tax salary of C$2,372. This income needs to cover the aforementioned living expenses. For those looking to purchase property, the mortgage interest rate for a 20-year fixed-rate plan is around 5.72% per annum. These figures are crucial when assessing the overall Laval Quebec cost of living in relation to potential earnings.

It's worth noting that Laval, with an estimated population of 438,000, is considered to have a good quality of life and is ranked among the more liveable cities in Quebec and Canada. Some data suggests the median after-tax salary is sufficient to cover living expenses for 1.2 months, placing Laval within the top tier of expensive cities globally but still accessible within a Canadian context.

Conclusion: Navigating the Cost of Living in Laval

In summary, the cost of living in Laval for 2025 presents a multifaceted financial landscape. With an average monthly expense for a single renter around C$3,435, individuals and families must carefully consider housing, transportation, and daily expenditures. While Laval offers a high quality of life and numerous amenities, understanding these costs is paramount for anyone considering a move or currently residing in the city.

Ultimately, the cost of living in Laval is influenced by personal choices and global economic factors. By researching and planning, residents can effectively manage their finances and enjoy what this dynamic Quebec city has to offer. What aspects of Laval's living expenses are most surprising or concerning to you as you plan your budget?