Detailed cost of living comparison between United States and Canada

Detailed cost of living comparison between Canada and Us Virgin Islands

Detailed cost of living comparison between Canada and United States

Portugal, Canada, and the United States were the countries with the highest house price to income ratio in 2024. In all three countries, the index exceeded 130 index points, while the average for all OECD countries stood at 116.2 index points. The index measures the development of housing affordability and is calculated by dividing nominal house price by nominal disposable income per head, with 2015 set as a base year when the index amounted to 100. An index value of 120, for example, would mean that house price growth has outpaced income growth by 20 percent since 2015. How have house prices worldwide changed since the COVID-19 pandemic? House prices started to rise gradually after the global financial crisis (2007–2008), but this trend accelerated with the pandemic. The countries with advanced economies, which usually have mature housing markets, experienced stronger growth than countries with emerging economies. Real house price growth (accounting for inflation) peaked in 2022 and has since lost some of the gain. Although, many countries experienced a decline in house prices, the global house price index shows that property prices in 2023 were still substantially higher than before COVID-19. Renting vs. buying In the past, house prices have grown faster than rents. However, the home affordability has been declining notably, with a direct impact on rental prices. As people struggle to buy a property of their own, they often turn to rental accommodation. This has resulted in a growing demand for rental apartments and soaring rental prices.

The ACCRA Cost of Living Index (COLI) is a measure of living cost differences among urban areas compiled by the Council for Community and Economic Research. Conducted quarterly, the index compares the price of goods and services among approximately 300 communities in the United States and Canada. This Microsoft Excel file contains the average prices of goods and services published in the ACCRA Cost of Living Index since 1990.

Major wage settlements, including number of agreements, number of employees, average duration of agreements, first year average percentage wage adjustment, and annual average percentage wage adjustment, by jurisdiction, industry, sector, and cost of living adjustment (COLA), annually, from 1977 to 2020.

This table contains 7560 series, with data for years 1977 - 2017 (not all combinations necessarily have data for all years). This table contains data described by the following dimensions (Not all combinations are available): Geography (14 items: Canada; Federal jurisdiction; Newfoundland and Labrador; Prince Edward Island; ...); Industry (12 items: All industries; Primary industries; Utilities; Construction; ...); Sector (3 items: All sectors; Public; Private); Cost of living adjustment (COLA) (3 items: All wage adjustments; With cost of living adjustment (COLA); Without cost of living adjustment (COLA)); Variable (5 items: Number of agreements; Number of employees; Duration of agreements in months (average); First year percentage adjustment (average); ...).

Ontario's construction costs 2023, by building type Published by Fernando de Querol Cumbrera, Dec 10, 2024 Ambulatory healthcare was the type of building with the highest construction costs in Ontario (Canada) in 2023. The cost of that type of building ranged from 7,110 to 8,750 Canadian dollars per square meter. Townhouses with mid-end specifications were, along with warehouses, among the cheapest buildings to construct, even though the townhouse sale price in Canada was much higher in 2023 than in a decade earlier. On the other side of the residential spectrum, the construction cost of high-rise buildings with mid-end specifications could reach up to 5,370 Canadian dollars per square meter. The housing sector in Ontario The fast population growth in Toronto, the main city in Ontario, has put pressure on its housing market. From 2001 to 2022, the number of people living in Canada’s largest city increased by over 37 percent. During the past years, house prices in Ontario rose at a similarly fast pace. Combined, these elements signal a strong demand for homes in Toronto and Ontario as a whole. The construction sector has responded to this trend: In 2022, most housing starts in Canada took place in the province of Ontario. That same year, EllisDon Corporation, with headquarters in Mississauga (Ontario), was the second-largest contractor in Canada. One of its largest residential/mixed-use projects under development is the 489-539 King St. West Development, in Toronto. Construction cost in North America Building construction costs in Quebec, the second most populous province in Canada after Ontario, had a similar cost range: Ambulatory healthcare buildings were the most expensive, and warehouses were the cheapest to build. However, enclosed malls and higher education buildings were significantly more expensive in Quebec than in Ontario. Across the border, the cities with the highest residential construction costs in the U.S. were San Francisco for multi-family housing, and New York City for single-family housing. Meanwhile, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York had the highest hotel construction costs in the U.S.

Ambulatory healthcare was the type of building with the highest construction costs in Ontario (Canada) in 2023. The cost of that type of building ranged from 7,110 to 8,750 Canadian dollars per square meter. Townhouses with mid-end specifications were, along with warehouses, among the cheapest buildings to construct, even though the townhouse sale price in Canada was much higher in 2023 than in a decade earlier. On the other side of the residential spectrum, the construction cost of high-rise buildings with mid-end specifications could reach up to 5,370 Canadian dollars per square meter. The housing sector in Ontario The fast population growth in Toronto, the main city in Ontario, has put pressure on its housing market. From 2001 to 2022, the number of people living in Canada’s largest city increased by over 37 percent. During the past years, house prices in Ontario rose at a similarly fast pace. Combined, these elements signal a strong demand for homes in Toronto and Ontario as a whole. The construction sector has responded to this trend: In 2022, most housing starts in Canada took place in the province of Ontario. That same year, EllisDon Corporation, with headquarters in Mississauga (Ontario), was the second-largest contractor in Canada. One of its largest residential/mixed-use projects under development is the 489-539 King St. West Development, in Toronto. Construction cost in North America Building construction costs in Quebec, the second most populous province in Canada after Ontario, had a similar cost range: Ambulatory healthcare buildings were the most expensive, and warehouses were the cheapest to build. However, enclosed malls and higher education buildings were significantly more expensive in Quebec than in Ontario. Across the border, the cities with the highest residential construction costs in the U.S. were San Francisco for multi-family housing, and New York City for single-family housing. Meanwhile, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York had the highest hotel construction costs in the U.S.

Major wage settlements, including number of agreements, number of employees, average duration of agreements, first year average percentage wage adjustment, and annual average percentage wage adjustment, by jurisdiction, industry, sector, and cost of living adjustment (COLA), monthly, from 1977 to 2020.

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Senior Living Market Size 2025-2029

The senior living market size is forecast to increase by USD 130.9 billion, at a CAGR of 5.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth and transformation, driven primarily by the aging baby boomer population. This demographic cohort, the largest in history, is entering the age bracket requiring senior living solutions. The increasing prevalence of age-related health issues necessitates specialized care and accommodation, creating a burgeoning demand for senior living facilities. However, this market is not without challenges. Technological advances in long-term healthcare are transforming the senior living landscape, necessitating significant investments in infrastructure and staff training. These advancements include telehealth, remote monitoring, and automated systems, which aim to enhance care quality and efficiency.
Moreover, staffing and workplace challenges persist as the senior living industry grapples with attracting and retaining skilled workers. The physical and emotional demands of caregiving, coupled with low wages and long hours, make it a challenging profession. Addressing these staffing issues through competitive compensation, benefits, and training programs is crucial for providers seeking to maintain high-quality care and operational excellence.

What will be the Size of the Senior Living Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, with dynamic market activities unfolding across various sectors. Community outings remain a crucial aspect of senior living, providing opportunities for social engagement and enrichment. Nursing homes and residential care facilities offer essential services for those requiring round-the-clock care, while continuing care communities cater to the diverse needs of seniors as they age. Senior living communities, including those specializing in Alzheimer's care and memory care, prioritize resident safety through rigorous regulatory compliance and advanced health information technology. Personal care and rehabilitation services help seniors maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. Capital expenditures for skilled nursing and retirement homes remain a significant focus, with ongoing investments in caregiver training, emergency response systems, and electronic health records.

Long-term care insurance plays a vital role in financing these services, ensuring seniors receive the care they need. Life enrichment programs, such as fitness centers, wellness programs, and volunteer opportunities, promote overall well-being and help seniors stay active and engaged. Continuous innovation in areas like smart homes, universal design, and hospice care further enhances the senior living experience. Operating costs, including staffing ratios, medication management, and infection control, are critical considerations for senior living providers. Ongoing regulatory compliance and the integration of technology help mitigate these costs while maintaining high-quality care. In the ever-changing senior living landscape, providers must remain agile and adapt to the evolving needs of their residents.

From independent living to post-acute care, the focus remains on enhancing the quality of life for seniors through personalized care, community engagement, and ongoing innovation.

How is this Senior Living Industry segmented?

The senior living industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Service

  Assisted living
  Independent living
  CCRC


Services

  Healthcare Services
  Lifestyle and Wellness Programs
  Dining Services


Technology Integration

  Smart Home Systems
  Health Monitoring Devices
  Safety and Security Systems


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Service Insights

The assisted living segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Assisted living arrangements provide apartment-style dwellings for aging adults who require assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, doing laundry, and managing medications. These communities offer various levels of care, including memory care units for individuals with cognitive impairments, which may include increased security measures and restricted kitchen access for safety reasons. The demand for specialized memory care units is growing as the population ages and the prevalence of conditions l

The average for 2021 based on 165 countries was 105.854 index points. The highest value was in South Korea: 208.84 index points and the lowest value was in India: 58.17 index points. The indicator is available from 2017 to 2021. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

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Tiny Homes Market Size 2025-2029

The tiny homes market size is forecast to increase by USD 3.71 billion, at a CAGR of 4.2% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the affordability of this housing solution for a significant portion of the population. The compact and cost-effective nature of tiny homes caters to the increasing demand for budget-friendly housing options. Additionally, the trend toward personalized living spaces is fueling the market's growth, as consumers seek to express their unique styles and preferences through customized tiny homes. However, challenges persist in the form of limited demand from developing economies due to their focus on more traditional and affordable housing construction solutions.
Furthermore, regulatory hurdles and zoning restrictions in some areas may pose obstacles to market expansion. Companies aiming to capitalize on the opportunities in the market must navigate these challenges by collaborating with local governments and offering flexible, customizable solutions to cater to diverse consumer needs.

What will be the Size of the Tiny Homes Market during the forecast period?

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The market continues to evolve, reflecting the shifting dynamics of housing trends and consumer preferences. Energy efficiency and sustainability remain key drivers, with green building practices and passive solar design gaining traction. Accessibility features and building codes are increasingly important considerations, as is the integration of smart home technology and appliances. Foundation types and site preparation require careful planning, while wind turbines and electrical systems enable off-grid living. Interior finishes and design customization offer opportunities for creativity, while zoning laws and permitting regulations shape the landscape of tiny home communities. Water conservation and greywater recycling are essential for sustainable living, and resale value is a growing concern for investors.

Smart meters, battery storage, and home automation systems enhance energy management and convenience. Housing affordability and financing options remain critical factors, with modular construction and prefabricated structures offering cost-effective solutions. Construction techniques and transportation logistics continue to advance, enabling greater customization and flexibility. The market's ongoing evolution reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of consumers seeking efficient, eco-friendly, and affordable housing solutions.

How is this Tiny Homes Industry segmented?

The tiny homes industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Mobile tiny homes
  Stationary tiny homes


Application

  Home use
  Commercial use


Area

  Less Than 130 Sq. Ft.
  130-500 Sq. Ft.
  More Than 500 Sq. Ft.
  Less Than 130 Sq. Ft.
  130-500 Sq. Ft.
  More Than 500 Sq. Ft.


Price Range

  Budget
  Mid-range
  Premium


Material

  Wood
  Metal
  Recycled


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    Spain
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The mobile tiny homes segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market for tiny homes, characterized by energy efficiency, mobile design, and small footprints, has experienced significant growth in recent years. These homes, built with green building practices and passive solar design, are often transported on wheels or trucks to their final site. The affordability of tiny homes, particularly in the context of rising conventional housing prices, has made them an attractive option for both young buyers and retirees seeking to optimize savings. The trend toward off-grid living and sustainable building materials further bolsters the market's appeal. Building codes, permitting and regulations, and zoning laws are key considerations in the tiny home market.

Foundation types, site preparation, and transportation logistics are essential elements of the construction process. Wind turbines, solar panels, and smart meters contribute to the homes' energy efficiency and self-sufficiency. Interior design, appliance integration, and storage solutions are crucial aspects of tiny home living. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair ramps and wider doorways, are increasingly important for ensuring compliance with ADA standards. Smart home technology, community development, and customer servic

At **** U.S. dollars, Switzerland has the most expensive Big Macs in the world, according to the January 2025 Big Mac index. Concurrently, the cost of a Big Mac was **** dollars in the U.S., and **** U.S. dollars in the Euro area. What is the Big Mac index? The Big Mac index, published by The Economist, is a novel way of measuring whether the market exchange rates for different countries’ currencies are overvalued or undervalued. It does this by measuring each currency against a common standard – the Big Mac hamburger sold by McDonald’s restaurants all over the world. Twice a year the Economist converts the average national price of a Big Mac into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at that point in time. As a Big Mac is a completely standardized product across the world, the argument goes that it should have the same relative cost in every country. Differences in the cost of a Big Mac expressed as U.S. dollars therefore reflect differences in the purchasing power of each currency. Is the Big Mac index a good measure of purchasing power parity? Purchasing power parity (PPP) is the idea that items should cost the same in different countries, based on the exchange rate at that time. This relationship does not hold in practice. Factors like tax rates, wage regulations, whether components need to be imported, and the level of market competition all contribute to price variations between countries. The Big Mac index does measure this basic point – that one U.S. dollar can buy more in some countries than others. There are more accurate ways to measure differences in PPP though, which convert a larger range of products into their dollar price. Adjusting for PPP can have a massive effect on how we understand a country’s economy. The country with the largest GDP adjusted for PPP is China, but when looking at the unadjusted GDP of different countries, the U.S. has the largest economy.

Consumer Price Index CPI in Canada increased to 164.40 points in June from 164.30 points in May of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - Canada Consumer Price Index (CPI) - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

The statistic shows the average inflation rate in Canada from 1987 to 2024, with projections up until 2030. The inflation rate is calculated using the price increase of a defined product basket. This product basket contains products and services, on which the average consumer spends money throughout the year. They include expenses for groceries, clothes, rent, power, telecommunications, recreational activities and raw materials (e.g. gas, oil), as well as federal fees and taxes. In 2022, the average inflation rate in Canada was approximately 6.8 percent compared to the previous year. For comparison, inflation in India amounted to 5.56 percent that same year. Inflation in Canada In general, the inflation rate in Canada follows a global trend of decreasing inflation rates since 2011, with the lowest slump expected to occur during 2015, but forecasts show an increase over the following few years. Additionally, Canada's inflation rate is in quite good shape compared to the rest of the world. While oil and gas prices have dropped in Canada much like they have around the world, food and housing prices in Canada have been increasing. This has helped to offset some of the impact of dropping oil and gas prices and the effect this has had on Canada´s inflation rate. The annual consumer price index of food and non-alcoholic beverages in Canada has been steadily increasing over the last decade. The same is true for housing and other price indexes for the country. In general there is some confidence that the inflation rate will not stay this low for long, it is expected to return to a comfortable 2 percent by 2017 if estimates are correct.

Short-Term Rental Platforms Market Outlook

The global short-term rental platforms market size is anticipated to grow significantly from USD 125 billion in 2023 to USD 215 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 6.5%. The rising demand for travel and tourism coupled with the increasing preference for personalized and affordable accommodation options are key growth drivers for this market. Additionally, the proliferation of internet connectivity and smartphone usage has facilitated easier access to short-term rental platforms, further propelling market growth.

The growing popularity of experiential travel is a significant factor contributing to the expansion of the short-term rental platforms market. Travelers increasingly seek unique and personalized experiences over traditional hotel stays, driving demand for diverse accommodation options. Platforms offering a range of properties, from apartments and houses to villas and unconventional spaces, cater to this evolving consumer preference. Furthermore, the increased adoption of remote working has enabled individuals to travel more frequently, enhancing the scope and demand for short-term rentals.

Technological advancements play a crucial role in the market's growth. The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics has revolutionized the way short-term rental platforms operate. These technologies enable platforms to offer more personalized recommendations, streamline booking processes, and improve overall user experience. Additionally, the implementation of dynamic pricing algorithms helps property owners optimize their revenue, making short-term rentals a more lucrative option compared to traditional long-term leases.

Another driving factor is the growing trend of sustainable and eco-friendly travel. Consumers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and prefer accommodations that align with their sustainability values. Short-term rental platforms often feature properties that incorporate eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient appliances and sustainable materials, attracting environmentally-conscious travelers. This trend not only boosts market growth but also encourages property owners to adopt greener practices, contributing to broader environmental goals.

Regionally, North America leads the short-term rental platforms market, followed by Europe and the Asia Pacific. The high disposable income and strong tourism infrastructure in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, support the market's dominance. Europe benefits from its rich cultural heritage and diverse tourist attractions, making it a popular destination for short-term rentals. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, driven by increasing tourism, rising urbanization, and the growing middle-class population. Countries like China, India, and Japan are emerging as significant contributors to market growth in this region.

Property Type Analysis

The short-term rental platforms market is segmented by property type into apartments, houses, villas, and others. Apartments constitute a significant portion of the market due to their availability and affordability. Urban areas, in particular, see a high demand for apartment rentals as they offer convenient access to city attractions and business centers. Additionally, apartments are often preferred by solo travelers and small groups due to their cost-effectiveness and compact living space. The growth of urban tourism and business travel further cements the dominance of this segment.

Houses also represent a substantial segment in the short-term rental market. Families and larger groups often opt for houses due to the additional space and privacy they offer. Houses typically provide multiple bedrooms, fully-equipped kitchens, and outdoor areas, making them ideal for extended stays and family vacations. The trend of "staycations" and the desire for home-like comfort during travel contribute to the steady demand for house rentals. This segment is also benefiting from the growing popularity of suburban and rural tourism, where houses are more prevalent.

Villas cater to the luxury segment of the market, attracting affluent travelers seeking premium accommodation experiences. Villas offer high-end amenities such as private pools, expansive living areas, and picturesque locations, making them a popular choice for special occasions and high-net-worth individuals. Although villas represent a smaller market share compared to ap

When consumers in Canada indicated they changed online payment methods in 2022 due to growing cost of living, most said they increasingly used credit cards. This according to a survey held in ** different countries across North America, Europe, and Latin America, and purely asked on whether cost of living had changed payment behavior in those countries. BNPL, and crypto were all used more often, but neither saw the largest growth: ** percent of respondents who changed their payment habits because of the rising cost of living in 2022 are paying online with credit cards more often than they did in the previous year. The source adds this is different from other countries.

Ambulatory healthcare was the type of building with the highest construction costs in Ontario (Canada) in 2024. The cost of that type of building ranged from 829 to 935 Canadian dollars per square feet. Townhouses, along with warehouses, among the cheapest buildings to construct, even though the townhouse sale price in Canada was much higher in 2024 than in a decade earlier. On the other side of the residential spectrum, the construction cost of high-rise buildings with mid-end specifications could reach up to 543 Canadian dollars per square feet. The housing sector in Ontario The fast population growth in Toronto, the main city in Ontario, has put pressure on its housing market. From 2001 to 2023, the number of people living in Canada’s largest city increased from 4.88 to 6.8 million people. During the past years, house prices in Ontario rose at a similarly fast pace. Combined, these elements signal a strong demand for homes in Toronto and Ontario as a whole. The construction sector has responded to this trend: In 2023, most housing starts in Canada took place in the province of Ontario. That same year, EllisDon Corporation, with headquarters in Mississauga (Ontario), was the second-largest contractor in Canada. One of its largest residential/mixed-use projects under development is the 489-539 King St. West Development, in Toronto. Construction cost in North America Building construction costs in Quebec, the second most populous province in Canada after Ontario, had a similar cost range: Ambulatory healthcare buildings were the most expensive, and warehouses were the cheapest to build. However, enclosed malls and higher education buildings were significantly more expensive in Quebec than in Ontario. Across the border, the cities with the highest residential construction costs in the U.S. were San Francisco for multi-family housing, and New York City for single-family housing. Meanwhile, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York had the highest hotel construction costs in the U.S.

In 2024, the price of natural gas in Europe reached 11 constant U.S. dollars per million British thermal units, compared with 2.2 U.S. dollars in the U.S. This was a notable decrease compared to the previous year, which had seen a steep increase in prices due to an energy supply shortage exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine war. Since 1980, natural gas prices have typically been higher in Europe than in the United States and are expected to remain so for the coming two years. This is due to the U.S. being a significantly larger natural gas producer than Europe. What is natural gas and why is it gaining ground in the energy market? Natural gas is commonly burned in power plants with combustion turbines that generate electricity or used as a heating fuel. Given the fact that the world’s energy demand continues to grow, natural gas was seen by some industry leaders as an acceptable "bridge-fuel" to overcome the use of more emission-intensive energy sources such as coal. Subsequently, natural gas has become the main fuel for electricity generation in the U.S., while the global gas power generation share has reached over 22 percent. How domestic production shapes U.S. natural gas prices The combination of hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) and horizontal drilling can be regarded as one of the oil and gas industry’s biggest breakthroughs in decades, with the U.S. being the largest beneficiary. This technology has helped the industry release unprecedented quantities of gas from deposits, mainly shale and tar sands that were previously thought either inaccessible or uneconomic. It is forecast that U.S. shale gas production could reach 36 trillion cubic feet in 2050, up from 1.77 trillion cubic feet in 2000.