Regina offers significantly lower living costs compared to most major Canadian cities. A family of four can expect monthly costs of approximately $5,174 (excluding rent), while a single person's monthly costs average $1,433. The average monthly net salary sits at $3,675. For housing market specifics, see our market trends analysis.
Housing Costs
Housing represents the biggest advantage for Regina residents compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver: Rent per month:
- 1-bedroom city centre: $1,481
- 1-bedroom outside centre: $1,170
- 3-bedroom city centre: $2,403
- 3-bedroom outside centre: $2,043 Home ownership comparison: A $240,000 home in Richmond Place or Spruce Meadows carries total monthly costs of $1,800-$2,000 including mortgage, property taxes, and insurance - comparable to renting a three-bedroom house at $1,800-$2,200 per month. Saskatchewan lacks rent control, so annual rental increases are uncapped, making ownership increasingly attractive over time. A $300,000 home in Wood Meadows or Parkridge costs approximately $2,200-$2,500 monthly total, providing a full house with yard and garage. Even a $450,000 home in Riverbend or Woodland Grove runs approximately $3,000-$3,300 monthly, still well below equivalent costs in Toronto or Vancouver. Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment average $246.75 per month. Mobile plans average $68.89 and internet runs $78.60 monthly. Combined, utilities and connectivity cost approximately $394 per month.
Food and Dining
Restaurants:
- Inexpensive meal: $30.00
- Mid-range two-person meal: $95.00
- McDonald's combo: $15.00
- Draft beer (0.5L): $9.25
- Cappuccino: $5.96
- Bottled water (0.33L): $2.40 Groceries (monthly estimates for a family):
- Milk (1L): $2.32
- Bread (500g): $2.95
- Eggs (12): $4.54
- Chicken (1kg): $16.49
- Beef (1kg): $22.92
- Local cheese (1kg): $19.18 A family of four should budget approximately $800-$1,000 per month for groceries, though costs vary significantly based on dietary preferences and shopping habits.
Transportation
Regina is primarily a car-dependent city, though public transit serves major routes:
- One-way transit ticket: $3.25
- Monthly transit pass: $88.00
- Gasoline (1L): $1.43
- Volkswagen Golf (new): $39,580
- Toyota Corolla (new): $26,046 Most residents rely on personal vehicles, particularly in suburban neighbourhoods like Harbour Landing, The Creeks, and Greens on Gardiner. Commute times within the city rarely exceed 20 minutes, a significant lifestyle advantage over larger Canadian cities where 45-60 minute commutes are standard.
How It Compares to Other Canadian Cities
Regina's cost of living advantage becomes clear when compared to Canada's largest markets: Housing: With an average benchmark home price of $330,900, Regina provides entry-level homes starting around $150K (condos in Riverbend) and detached houses from $239K (Spruce Meadows). Compare this to Toronto's average of over $1 million, Vancouver's similarly elevated prices, or even Calgary at $550,000+. Income-to-price ratio: The average net salary of $3,675 per month against a $330,900 benchmark price gives Regina one of the most favourable income-to-home-price ratios among Canadian cities. In Toronto, the average home price exceeds 12 times the median household income; in Regina, the ratio is closer to 4-5 times. Affordability for families: A family of four monthly budget breakdown in Regina:
- Housing (mortgage on $300K home): $2,200-$2,500
- Food: $800-$1,000
- Transportation (two cars): $500-$700
- Utilities and connectivity: $394
- Total basic costs: $3,894-$4,594 This leaves meaningful room in a dual-income household earning the average net salary, unlike Toronto or Vancouver where basic costs consume 80-90% of household income.
Education and Childcare
Regina offers public education through both the Regina Public School Division and the Regina Catholic School Division. Post-secondary options include the University of Regina and Saskatchewan Polytechnic, both of which contribute to rental demand in nearby neighbourhoods. Childcare costs in Saskatchewan are among the lowest in Canada due to the federal $10-a-day childcare program, further reducing the cost burden for young families.
Lifestyle and Recreation
Despite its smaller size, Regina offers affordable recreation options. Wascana Centre, one of the largest urban parks in North America, provides free access to trails, lakes, and green space. The Sandra Schmirler Leisure Centre and numerous community centres offer fitness and pool memberships at municipal rates. The Cathedral Village Arts Festival, Regina Folk Festival, and Rider game days at Mosaic Stadium provide affordable entertainment year-round.
Current Listings
Browse all Regina listings or see the first-time buyer guide.