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The price of moving

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One of the biggest decisions a Canadian family can make is to pick up and move to another part of the country. And as if adjusting to a new job, a new town and new friends weren’t enough, families often have to adjust their budget because their purchasing power changes.

Moving from a small city to a big city provides the biggest shock. For example, in Toronto—Canada’s most expensive city—the cost of the Consumer Price Index’s basket of goods and services is 10% above the national average. On the other hand, costs in Regina—Canada’s least expensive urban centre—are 10% below the national average. Charlottetown and Summerside, Saint John, Montréal and Winnipeg, all have much lower-than-average costs, whereas Canadians can expect to pay more for things in Ottawa and Vancouver.

Chart: Intercity retail price differentials index, October 2004One of the biggest differences that Canadians moving to other cities must contend with is the price of shelter, which accounts for about 27% of household expenses. Renting or buying a home in Toronto, for example, will cost about 25% more than the Canadian average. By contrast, accommodation is at least 30% cheaper in Regina and in Atlantic Canadian cities such as Saint John and Charlottetown.

Below-average food prices, both in the grocery store and at restaurants, can be found in Montréal, Winnipeg and Regina. Residents of St. John’s and Vancouver pay the most for food. Getting around town via public or private transportation is cheapest in Winnipeg and Regina, but most costly in Toronto and, interestingly, in St. John’s. And for those who place recreation, education and reading among their favourite pursuits, Montréal is the place to be. Edmonton has the best prices for clothing and footwear.