Here's how much money you need to make to live alone in Edmonton

Looking to ditch the roommate or family and live on your own in the big city? Well, a new report shows just how much it costs to live alone in Edmonton.

Edmonton has lots to offer, including major sporting events, tons of culture, diverse communities, queer-friendly spaces, and history to boot. But those who live in the city know the cost of living can really add up.

According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living in cities around the world, the average monthly cost for a single person living in Edmonton is $1,462.60… and that’s before rent.

These numbers are accurate as of November 2024 and are based on per-month averages.

We broke down some monthly costs that a person renting alone in Edmonton will face, and it could be worse.

Housing

According to Numbeo, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Edmonton is $1,533.73 per month.

On the other hand, outside of the city centre, an average one-bedroom apartment costs just $1,239.75 per month.

Now, add utilities to that rental price, and it’s up another $279.94 per month. WiFi? Prepare to pay another $86.81 per month.

Groceries and household items

When purchased weekly, Numbeo’s average price for essential market items comes to a total monthly average of $389.44 for a single young person on a basic diet.

A basic diet consists of milk, rice, bread, meat, fruits, veggies, and eggs — the staples.

Entertainment and dining out

According to Numbeo, the average cost for two to dine out in Edmonton at a mid-range restaurant is $80 for a three-course meal. Presumably, this price doesn’t include any alcoholic beverages, which would probably boost the price by about $16, assuming each person had one drink. Do that twice a month; that adds up to $192.

Health and fitness

Thinking about joining a gym or fitness group? Numbeo says Edmontonians pay $64.36 monthly on average.

Phone

A good phone plan is absolutely essential, and according to Numbeo, Edmontonians spend an average of $69.69 monthly on their phone bills.

Transportation

Transportation and gas clocked in at $100 for a monthly bus pass and $1.42 per litre in Edmonton. Not bad, but we sure miss the days when fuel was 80 cents per litre, phew.

Partying

You can expect to pay about $7 to $16 per drink in the city, depending on where and what you’re drinking. If you go out to drink one night every weekend and order two or three drinks, you’ll end up having spent around $96 on outings.

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Extras = $125 per month

No matter how much you budget, there is always the chance that unexpected costs will crop up. Whether you’re having to fix a broken piece of technology, replace a part on your bike, or invest in a new pair of work shoes, we’ll average this at $130 per month.

The grand total

So, how does it all add up?

Rent (Outside city centre) and utilities: $1,606.50
Phone: $69.69
Transportation: $100
Groceries/household items: $389.44
Dining out: $192
Partying: $96
Health and fitness: $64.36
Coffee: $95.80
Extras: $130

When it’s all said and done, Edmontonians living alone need an estimated $2,743.79 per month for their expenses, including rent, utilities, and groceries, and if you want to partake in the fun stuff like dining out, grabbing drinks and grabbing that coffee during the workweek from a local cafe.

Numbeo says that the average monthly salary in Edmonton is $3,937.70.

Better put any extra cash you make away in your savings. But, if you want to check out that concert or take that vacation… we won’t judge.

With files from Brooke Taylor and Laine Mitchell