15 Cheapest States to Buy a House in 2025

May 29, 2025
Cheapest States to Buy a House in 2025

15 Cheapest States to Buy a House in 2025 (Ranked by Affordability)

Introduction

Affordability is one of the biggest factors people consider when choosing where to live. Buying a home is likely the largest purchase most Candians will make in their lifetime, and the cost of housing can significantly impact your long-term financial health.

In this post, we rank the top 15 cheapest states to buy a house in 2025. We used updated data on home prices, household income, cost of living, and utility costs to help you make an informed decision. If you’re looking for a state where your housing dollars go further, this list is for you.

Cheapest States to Buy a House in 2025

National Averages in Canada (2025)

  • Population: 40 million+

  • Median Household Income: $75,452

  • Average Home Price (Canada-wide): $703,446

  • 30% Affordability Rule: Housing costs should be ≤ 30% of your gross income

15 Cheapest Provinces & Territories to Buy a House in Canada

British Columbia

1. Newfoundland and Labrador

  • Median Home Price: $284,500

  • Median Household Income: $70,305

  • Cost of Living Index: 86.0

  • Housing Index: 68.2

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $180

Newfoundland offers coastal beauty and a low cost of living. St. John’s provides a vibrant arts scene, while rural areas offer quiet and affordability.

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2. New Brunswick

  • Median Home Price: $290,300

  • Median Household Income: $72,075

  • Cost of Living Index: 87.1

  • Housing Index: 70.4

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $195

With a booming housing market and scenic views, New Brunswick is attracting new residents with its balance of affordability and quality of life.

nova scotia

3. Nova Scotia

  • Median Home Price: $349,200

  • Median Household Income: $74,250

  • Cost of Living Index: 88.4

  • Housing Index: 72.3

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $210

Home to historic Halifax and stunning coastlines, Nova Scotia combines lifestyle and affordability for remote workers and retirees alike.

Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.)

4. Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.)

  • Median Home Price: $331,400

  • Median Household Income: $73,800

  • Cost of Living Index: 87.8

  • Housing Index: 71.6

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $190

P.E.I. is known for its relaxed pace, small-town charm, and cost-effective housing market—especially outside Charlottetown.

Manitoba

5. Manitoba

  • Median Home Price: $328,700

  • Median Household Income: $77,900

  • Cost of Living Index: 89.6

  • Housing Index: 74.2

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $200

From Winnipeg’s growing tech scene to peaceful prairie towns, Manitoba is a budget-friendly option with strong infrastructure and healthcare.

Saskatchewan

6. Saskatchewan

  • Median Home Price: $334,100

  • Median Household Income: $79,200

  • Cost of Living Index: 88.7

  • Housing Index: 73.1

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $190

With expansive landscapes and affordable homes, Saskatchewan offers space to grow—ideal for families and investors.

Quebec

7. Quebec

  • Median Home Price: $421,100

  • Median Household Income: $78,450

  • Cost of Living Index: 90.3

  • Housing Index: 77.5

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $170

From Montreal’s culture to Quebec City’s charm, this province blends affordability with vibrant urban life. Provincial childcare and healthcare benefits sweeten the deal.

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8. Alberta

  • Median Home Price: $447,600

  • Median Household Income: $85,300

  • Cost of Living Index: 92.1

  • Housing Index: 78.4

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $220

Alberta stands out with strong wages and no provincial sales tax. Calgary and Edmonton offer affordability relative to big-city standards.

Ontario

9. Ontario (Certain Regions Only)

  • Median Home Price (Province): $868,000

  • Median Household Income: $86,900

  • Cost of Living Index: 95.5

  • Housing Index: 91.3

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $240

Ontario is expensive, but smaller towns in Northern and Eastern Ontario still offer deals below national averages. Cities like Thunder Bay or Sudbury are worth considering.

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10. British Columbia (Selective Markets)

  • Median Home Price: $966,800

  • Median Household Income: $84,200

  • Cost of Living Index: 97.6

  • Housing Index: 92.8

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $250

B.C. is Canada’s most expensive province, but regions like Prince George and Kamloops provide value and access to outdoor adventure.

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11. Northwest Territories

  • Median Home Price: $442,000

  • Median Household Income: $101,500

  • Cost of Living Index: 110.2

  • Housing Index: 85.5

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $280

Housing is reasonably priced relative to high wages, but the cost of living and utilities make affordability complex.

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12. Yukon

  • Median Home Price: $512,300

  • Median Household Income: $96,800

  • Cost of Living Index: 107.9

  • Housing Index: 86.2

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $270

Whitehorse is seeing real estate growth, and though costs are high, salaries often keep pace. Ideal for those seeking adventure.

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13. Nunavut

  • Median Home Price: $530,000

  • Median Household Income: $115,400

  • Cost of Living Index: 120.5

  • Housing Index: 90.1

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $300

Nunavut has the highest wages in Canada, but home prices and living expenses are also high. Consider only with employment secured.

Toronto, Ontario

14. Toronto, Ontario

  • Median Home Price (Toronto CMA): $1,105,000

  • Median Household Income: $98,300

  • Cost of Living Index: 102.8

  • Housing Index: 98.7

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $260

Canada’s most expensive market. Toronto is financially demanding even with a higher salary. Not ideal for affordability seekers.

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15. Vancouver, British Columbia

  • Median Home Price: $1,231,000

  • Median Household Income: $90,700

  • Cost of Living Index: 105.9

  • Housing Index: 99.2

  • Average Monthly Utilities: $270

Vancouver tops the list for cost. Excellent lifestyle and job opportunities, but affordability is a concern without a high dual income.

Advantages of Living in More Affordable Provinces

  • Better Budget Flexibility: Spend less on housing and more on experiences, savings, or investments

  • Lifestyle Improvements: Shorter commutes, lower property taxes, more green space

  • More First-Time Buyer Support: Programs in affordable regions often target new homeowners


Disadvantages to Watch Out For

  • Fewer Job Opportunities: Smaller markets may not suit every profession

  • Lower Appreciation Rates: Home values may rise more slowly in less competitive markets

  • Limited Amenities: Some rural areas may lack public transit or healthcare services


How to Choose Where to Buy in Canada

Before deciding:

  • Research job markets, schools, and hospitals

  • Compare rural vs. urban property costs

  • Understand tax implications and provincial benefits

  • Evaluate lifestyle fit (climate, nature, community)


Final Thoughts

Affordability isn’t just about home price it’s about balance. Use this ranking as a starting point, but remember to factor in your income potential, lifestyle, and long-term goals.

Thinking of buying in Canada? Make sure you’re informed and make your move wisely.