Cost of Living in Saskatoon 2026

Cost of Living Overview

Saskatoon, the largest city in Saskatchewan, is known for its vibrant culture and strong community spirit. As of 2026, the overall cost of living in Saskatoon is approximately 5% lower than the national average in Canada. This makes it an attractive option for families and individuals looking for affordable living without sacrificing quality of life. The average home price in Saskatoon stands at $549,757, while the median home price is slightly lower at $449,900. These figures indicate that while the real estate market has seen significant growth, it remains accessible compared to larger metropolitan areas like Toronto and Vancouver. Additionally, Saskatoon offers a diverse range of amenities, recreational activities, and educational opportunities, making it a well-rounded choice for anyone considering relocation.

Housing Costs

In Saskatoon, the choice between renting and buying largely depends on individual circumstances and market conditions. As of 2026, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around $1,300 per month, while outside the city center, the average drops to about $1,100. For families or those needing more space, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around $2,000 monthly, and $1,600 outside the city center.

For those interested in buying property, the average home price of $549,757 reflects a wide price range from $19,999 for smaller or fixer-upper homes to over $16,000,000 for luxury properties.

To estimate monthly mortgage payments, consider the following scenario: if you were to purchase a home at the median price of $449,900 with a 20% down payment and a 3% interest rate over 25 years, your monthly mortgage payment would be approximately $1,700. This is a rough estimate and can vary based on personal financial situations and lender policies.

Property Type	City Center Rent	Outside City Center Rent	Average Home Price
1-Bedroom Apartment	$1,300	$1,100	$549,757
3-Bedroom Apartment	$2,000	$1,600	$449,900

Utilities & Bills

When considering moving to Saskatoon, it's crucial to factor in utility costs. On average, residents can expect to pay around $150 for electricity, $90 for heating gas, and approximately $100 for water and sewage. Internet services typically cost about $80 per month, while mobile phone plans range from $60 to $100, depending on the service provider and plan chosen.

Groceries & Food

A reasonable monthly grocery budget for one person in Saskatoon is around $300. This can vary based on dietary preferences and shopping habits. Common grocery costs include:

• Milk (1 liter): $2.50
• Bread (loaf): $3.00
• Eggs (dozen): $3.50
• Chicken (1 kg): $12.00
• Apples (1 kg): $4.00

Dining out is also relatively affordable. A basic meal at a restaurant costs around $20, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can run approximately $80.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Saskatoon can vary widely based on personal choices. For car owners, gas prices hover around $1.40 per liter, and the average insurance premium is approximately $1,200 per year.

For those opting for public transit, a monthly pass costs around $85, and single fare tickets are priced at $3.00. Saskatoon is relatively bike-friendly, which can also be a cost-effective mode of transportation.

Healthcare

In Saskatchewan, healthcare is publicly funded, so residents do not pay monthly premiums for medical services. However, dental and vision care are typically out-of-pocket expenses. A dental check-up can cost around $150, while basic vision exams are approximately $100. Prescription medications can vary widely in cost depending on coverage and specific needs.

Entertainment & Recreation

Saskatoon offers a variety of entertainment options at reasonable prices. A monthly gym membership typically costs around $60, while movie tickets are about $15 each. For sports enthusiasts, local games provide affordable entertainment, with ticket prices ranging from $20 to $50 depending on the event. Hobbies and recreational activities, such as art classes or workshops, also vary in cost but generally range from $20 to $100.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

Below is a sample monthly budget for different household types living in Saskatoon:

Single Person

• Housing (Rent): $1,300
• Utilities: $300
• Groceries: $300
• Transportation: $120
• Healthcare: $50
• Entertainment: $150
• Total: $2,320

Couple

• Housing (Rent): $1,700
• Utilities: $400
• Groceries: $500
• Transportation: $240
• Healthcare: $100
• Entertainment: $200
• Total: $3,240

Family (2 Adults & 2 Children)

• Housing (Rent): $2,000
• Utilities: $500
• Groceries: $800
• Transportation: $300
• Healthcare: $200
• Entertainment: $300
• Total: $4,600

Is Saskatoon Affordable?

Overall, Saskatoon offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to many other Canadian cities. With a median household income of approximately $75,000, most residents can comfortably manage living expenses. However, it is essential to consider personal financial situations, including debt levels and job stability, when assessing affordability. For individuals or families looking to relocate, it is advisable to have a stable income that equates to at least 2.5 to 3 times the total monthly expenses to ensure a comfortable standard of living.