Halifax Households Struggle with Rising Housing and Transport Costs

Recent data from Statistics Canada, as analyzed by CBC News, shows that in 2024, households in Halifax were spending a comparable share of their income on housing and transportation as those in Toronto.

Approximately half of Halifax households were estimated to allocate 31% or more of their before-tax income to housing and transportation costs, closely aligning with Toronto’s 30% figure.

This trend reflects the significant increase in housing costs witnessed in Halifax in recent years, according to local realtor Chris Melnyk.

Melnyk highlighted a common misconception about affordable housing in Halifax, noting that many potential homebuyers from outside the province were deterred by the rising prices.

The surge in housing prices, with some properties doubling in value between 2019 and 2022, has made Halifax less financially attractive for newcomers compared to previous years.

A similar experience was shared by Montreal-based musician Rachel Sunter, who, after facing escalating rents in Halifax, ultimately moved to Montreal due to more affordable living costs.

While housing costs are higher in Toronto compared to Halifax, when factoring in transportation expenses, the two cities show a similar financial burden on households, as indicated by the Statistics Canada Housing and Transportation Cost Index.

Nova Scotia ranks among the top provinces in terms of the share of household income spent on housing and transportation, with transportation costs being particularly burdensome for residents in smaller towns.

The continuous increase in gas prices in Halifax since 2024, along with lower wage rates compared to the national average, further contribute to the financial strain on households in the region.

Data says share of income spent on housing, transportation in Halifax comparable to Toronto

July 3, 2025|

Duration 2:28

Recent data from Statistics Canada revealed about half of Halifax households were estimated to spend about 31 per cent or more of before-tax income on housing and transportation. In Toronto, the figure was 30 per cent. Andrew Lam has more.