Toronto consistently ranks as one of Canada's most expensive cities. Whether you're moving here or just curious, here's an honest breakdown of what things actually cost in 2025.
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Housing
Housing is the biggest expense and has driven most cost-of-living increases.
- 1-bedroom apartment (downtown): $2,000-$2,400/month
- 1-bedroom apartment (suburbs): $1,700-$2,000/month
- 2-bedroom apartment (downtown): $3,000-$3,800/month
- Room in shared house: $900-$1,400/month
- Average home price: $1.1 million
- Average condo price: $715,000
Search for rentals on Rentals.ca or Realtor.ca.
Transportation
- TTC monthly pass: $156
- Single TTC fare: $3.35
- Car insurance: $200-$350/month
- Gasoline: $1.45-$1.65/litre
- Monthly parking (downtown): $250-$400
Food
- Groceries (single person): $400-$600/month
- Restaurant meal (casual): $18-$30
- Restaurant meal (mid-range): $40-$70
- Beer at a bar: $8-$12
- Coffee: $3-$6
Save money at discount grocers like No Frills or FreshCo.
Utilities
- Electricity: $80-$150/month
- Internet: $60-$100/month (compare plans at Bell, Rogers, or Beanfield)
- Phone plan: $50-$90/month (budget options: Public Mobile, Freedom Mobile)
Sample Monthly Budgets
Student/Budget lifestyle: $2,500-$3,000
Single professional: $4,000-$5,000
Couple (no kids): $5,500-$7,000
Family of four: $8,000-$12,000
Money-Saving Tips
- Live along subway lines to avoid needing a car
- Shop at No Frills, FreshCo, or Chinatown grocers
- Look for apartments in North York, Scarborough, or Etobicoke
- Use Presto card for TTC discounts
- Many museums have free admission days (check Toronto events)
