Cost of Living

Access to healthy food is necessary to support the mental and physical development of a growing family. Every year, the Region of Durham's Health department publishes a report on the cost of feeding a family of four. This is called the Nutritious Food Basket.

In 2022, the annual cost was $12,804 to feed a family of four. 

The average price of a home in Durham has been increasing in recent years. In 2021, the average price of a home was $1,024,570 (data source: Durham Region Housing Reports — Durham Region Association of REALTORS - Durham Region Real Estate (durhamrealestate.org).

Prices vary by:

• Neighbourhood.
• Age of the home.
• Condition of the home.
• Additional items that come with the home (such as parking or garage space).

As a homeowner, you will also need to pay property taxes.

As of March 2023, the average rent in Durham is:

• 1-bedroom apartment: $1731.00/month.
• 2-bedroom apartment: $2123.00/month.

(data source: Rentals.ca March 2023 Rent Report)

Prices vary depending on the neighbourhood, the size and condition of the home, and any extras included in the monthly rental cost.

As a renter, property taxes and maintenance fees (sometimes called common element fees) are usually covered by your landlord or form part of your monthly rental fee. It's important to ask exactly what is and isn't included in your rent. Be sure to agree to these terms with your landlord in writing.

Get more information on renting a home, including your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Beyond the cost of your mortgage or rent, you can expect to pay for utilities and vital services. These include heat, water, electricity, and even cable and phone charges. When thinking about how much to spend on your home, remember these costs might not be included in your rent or mortgage.