Planning to live in Canada as a single person comes with one big question: how much salary is enough to live comfortably? Canada is known for its high quality of life, healthcare, and opportunities, but the cost of living can vary from city to city. The good news is that with the right income, a single person can manage all expenses and still save for the future.
On average, a single person in Canada needs about $40,000 after-tax yearly income (around $3,300 per month) to live comfortably. This covers housing, utilities, groceries, healthcare, transportation, and leisure activities. However, costs in cities like Toronto or Vancouver are higher compared to smaller towns.
Average Salary in Canada for a Comfortable Life
The average salary in Canada in 2025 is around $60,000 to $65,000 annually before tax, which equals roughly $3,800–$4,200 net monthly. This means most professionals earn enough to support a comfortable lifestyle, especially if they are single.
Monthly Cost of Living in Canada for a Single Person
A breakdown of the average monthly expenses in Canada looks like this:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Utilities & Internet | $200 – $300 |
| Food & Groceries | $400 – $600 |
| Transportation | $150 – $250 |
| Healthcare (Insurance, etc.) | $100 – $200 |
| Entertainment & Leisure | $200 – $400 |
| Total | $2,471 (average) |
This means a monthly salary of $3,300–$3,800 is considered good for singles.
Living in Canada Salary 2025: City-Wise Differences
- Toronto & Vancouver: Higher rent, need around $4,000+ per month.
- Calgary & Ottawa: Moderate cost, around $3,000–$3,500 per month.
- Smaller Cities (Halifax, Winnipeg, Quebec City): More affordable, around $2,500–$3,000 per month.
How Much Salary is Good Enough?
- Minimum comfortable salary: ~$40,000 after tax.
- Average professional salary: ~$60,000–$65,000 annually.
- High-income lifestyle: $80,000+ per year allows savings, investments, and luxury.
Key Takeaway
For a single person in Canada, a monthly salary of $3,300 to $4,000 after tax is enough to cover expenses and live well in 2025. The exact figure depends on your lifestyle and the city you choose, but overall, Canada offers a balance between income and living standards.
FAQs – Monthly Salary for a Single Person in Canada
Q1: What is considered a comfortable monthly salary for a single person in Canada?
A comfortable monthly salary for a single person in Canada is around $3,300 to $3,800 before tax. After deductions, this usually comes close to $2,500 to $3,000 take-home pay, which covers rent, food, transportation, utilities, healthcare, and some savings or entertainment.
Q2: Does the required salary vary depending on the city in Canada?
Yes. The cost of living is much higher in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, where rent alone can take up more than half of your income. Smaller cities such as Winnipeg, Halifax, or Regina are more affordable, and you may need a lower salary to live comfortably there.
Q3: Can a single person live in Canada on less than $40,000 a year?
It is possible but challenging. Living on less than $40,000 may require sharing accommodation, avoiding high-rent areas, and limiting extra expenses. Many people manage with lower incomes, but comfort and savings may be limited.
Q4: How much should a single person budget for rent in Canada?
On average, a one-bedroom apartment costs between $1,200 and $2,300 per month, depending on the city. Since rent is often the largest expense, your salary should ideally be at least three times your rent to balance other living costs.