Cost of Living in Charlottetown: Updated Prices, Comparison with Other Cities

Students moving to Charlottetown, Canada for higher studies can find it an exciting decision, but managing the cost of living in Charlottetown is crucial for a smooth transition. Understanding the cost of living in Charlottetown will help you budget effectively and make informed financial decisions during your stay. But what is the cost of living in Charlottetown?

For students considering higher studies in Canada, Charlottetown City offers a blend of affordable living, advanced education, and a fun-loving community. This comprehensive guide explores the cost of living in Charlottetown in detail, providing valuable insights to help you budget effectively and make an informed decision.

Cost of Living in Charlottetown Overview

The average cost of living in Charlottetown for a single person is approximately CAD 1912 per month, according to LivingCost Data. If we break it down, the rent for a one-room apartment ranges from CAD 1400 to CAD 2200 per month. Food expenses are about CAD 635 per month, and transportation costs are around CAD 72 per month. The overall cost of living in Charlottetown per month can vary based on lifestyle choices, the specific area, and other personal factors.

The average monthly cost of living in Charlottetown is approximately equal to the world’s average living expenses. Charlottetown ranked 145th out of 153 in Canada for cost of living. Housing costs, food costs, utility costs, transportation costs and other costs play a significant role in determining the total cost of living in Charlottetown. This detailed overview of the costs of living in Charlottetown provides a clear picture for people considering moving to Charlottetown, helping to make effective financial planning.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Calgary: Updated Prices, Other Cities Comparison

Costs of Accommodation in Charlottetown

Before moving to Charlottetown it is essential for students to thoroughly research and compare apartment rents in different areas of the city to ensure they meet your needs and budget. Rental costs can vary based on location, size, and type of accommodation. The city offers a range of housing options, from on-campus residences to off-campus apartments and shared houses. Here’s an overview of what you can expect to pay:

• On-Campus Housing: On-campus housing at institutions like the University of Prince Edward Island can range from CAD 800 to CAD 1,200 per month, depending on the type of room and meal plan chosen.
  
• Off-Campus Rent: For a one-bedroom apartment, rent can vary between CAD 1700 and CAD 2200 per month. A larger apartment or house suitable for sharing might cost CAD 2100 to CAD 3000 per month. To help you better understand housing expenses, we have compiled average cost data for various flats both inside and outside the city centre.

Apartment Type	Location	Approx. Monthly Cost
1 bedroom	in the City Centre	CAD  1,700
3 bedrooms	in the City Centre	CAD 2,625
1 bedroom	Outside of Centre	CAD 1,400
3 bedrooms	Outside of Centre	CAD 2,175

Cost of a Utility in Charlottetown 

For a one-bedroom apartment in Charlottetown, the average monthly utility costs are approximately CAD 137. However, this amount can vary depending on the specific utilities used and the size of the apartment. It’s crucial to consider these utility expenses when estimating your total cost of living in Charlottetown, as they can have a substantial impact on your budget.

Utility services in Charlottetown encompass essential amenities that contribute to residents’ quality of life. These services typically include electricity, water, heating, internet, and waste management. Below is a summary of the average utility expenses residents can expect in Charlottetown:

Utility Type	Utility Name	Approx. Cost
Basic Utility Bills	Water, Electricity, Heating, etc	CAD 137
Internet	50 Mbps+, Unlimited Data, Monthly	CAD 121
Mobile Phone	Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data	CAD 55

Also Read: Cost of Living in Saskatoon: Updated Prices, Comparison with Other Cities

Costs of Dining in Charlottetown

For those who like to eat out, Charlottetown has a diverse culinary scene that can be both enjoyable and affordable. However, the cost of eating out varies based on the type of restaurant, the cuisine, the number of diners, and the location. Eating out regularly can affect the student budget and the overall cost of living in Charlottetown. 

On average, a student might spend around CAD 635 per month on food. However, cooking at home is often a more economical choice for students. It will help you save you a lot of money. Here is an approximate estimate of the average cost of a meal at restaurants in Charlottetown:

Type of Restaurant	Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant
Lunch Menu	CAD 15.4
Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 person	CAD 49
Fast food meal, equiv. McDonald’s	CAD 13.7
Cappuccino	CAD 4.46

Cost of Grocery in Charlottetown

Grocery expenses are a significant portion of the daily cost of living in Charlottetown, particularly if you prepare your meals at home. Your meal preferences will decide your grocery budget, impacting the overall cost of living in Charlottetown, Canada.

In Charlottetown, to save money on groceries, it’s beneficial to compare prices across different stores and vendors. Grocery prices can vary according to the quality and quantity of the products, as well as the location and availability of the store. Below is a table summarising the average grocery expenses in Charlottetown for those planning to cook at home:

Grocery Item	Approx Cost
Milk (regular), (1 litre)	CAD 2.33
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)	CAD 3.52
Rice (white), (1kg)	CAD 4.45
Eggs (regular) (12)	CAD 4.78
Local Cheese (1kg)	CAD 15.01
Apples (1kg)	CAD 5.83
Banana (1kg)	CAD 1.94
Oranges (1kg)	CAD 5.72
Tomato (1kg)	CAD 4.75
Potato (1kg)	CAD 2.71
Onion (1kg)	CAD 3.25
Lettuce (1 head)	CAD 3.87
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	CAD 2.27

Transportation Costs in Charlottetown

Charlottetown boasts a well-developed transportation system, including intercity bus services and cabs. This network effectively meets residents’ needs, ensuring connectivity and accessibility throughout the area. For students, commuting to and from college means transportation costs will be a regular part of their routine.

Transportation expenses in Charlottetown can significantly impact your overall cost of living in Charlottetown. To help you estimate your transportation budget, we have provided a table with average transportation costs below. Review it to plan your travels around Charlottetown comfortably.

Mode of Transport	Approx Cost
Ticket for Monthly Pass in a Public transport	CAD 63.9
Ticket for Local Public transport	CAD 2
Local tariff for the Taxi Ride of 8 km	CAD 26.1
1 L or 0.26 gal Gas / Petrol	CAD 1.29

Also Read: Cost of Living in Regina: Food, Room Rent & Transportation

Miscellaneous Costs in Charlottetown

Miscellaneous costs in Charlottetown, including gym subscriptions, movie tickets, clothing, and short medical appointments, should be considered when managing your budget for the cost of living in Charlottetown. These expenses are part of everyday life and can arise during your studies in Charlottetown, Canada.

While these costs may vary based on individual lifestyles and preferences, they are important to keep in mind for effective budget management. Please see the table below for a detailed list of these fees.

Miscellaneous	Approx Cost
Movie Ticket	CAD 14.4
Brand Jeans	CAD 71.7
Fitness Club	CAD 57.6
Brand Sneakers	CAD 118
Doctor’s visit	CAD 74.5

Cost of Living in Charlottetown Compared to Other Cities

Charlottetown is known for having a very affordable cost of living compared to other Canadian cities. When considering living expenses in Charlottetown, you need to account for costs such as housing, transportation, dining, and entertainment. 

Despite these expenses, Charlottetown is appealing to those seeking a balanced lifestyle with a relatively low cost of living. To help you understand how the cost of living in Charlottetown compares to other cities like Ontario, Calgary, Stratford, and Toronto, we have provided a comparison below:

Cost of Living City Wise	Average Cost of living (including rent)	Comparison with Cost of Living in Charlottetown
Cost of Living in Ontario	CAD 3072	Higher than Charlottetown
Cost of Living in Calgary	CAD 2879	Higher than Charlottetown
Cost of Living in Stratford	CAD 2475	Higher than Charlottetown
Cost of Living in Toronto	CAD 3510	Higher than Charlottetown
Cost of Living in Canada	CAD 2782	Higher than Charlottetown

Average Tuition Fees in Charlottetown

Understanding tuition fees at universities in Charlottetown is crucial for international students, as these costs can significantly impact their overall cost of living in Charlottetown. Tuition fees at the universities in Charlottetown vary depending on the specific program and level of study.

Prospective students should carefully consider their educational goals and financial resources when planning for higher education in Charlottetown. Here is an overview of the average tuition fees at universities and colleges in Charlottetown:

University/College Name	Tuition Fees
University of Prince Edward Island	CAD 10,000 – CAD 35,000
College de l’Île	CAD 13,000 – CAD 18,000
Maritime Christian College	CAD 13,000 – CAD 18,000
Collège de l’Île	CAD 13,000 – CAD 18,000
Holland College	CAD 13,000 – CAD 18,000

By planning their finances well, students can maximize their opportunities to receive a high-quality education at an affordable price. It’s also advisable to check for financial aid or scholarships available on the official websites of Canadian universities.

Conclusion: Now you have understood that the cost of living in Charlottetown is relatively very affordable compared to other Canadian cities, making it an attractive destination for students pursuing higher education. By understanding the various expenses, students can enjoy a comfortable and enriching experience while studying in Charlottetown.

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FAQs on Cost of Living in Charlottetown

So, this was all about the cost of living in Charlottetown. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.