Is Scarborough Cheaper to Live in Than Toronto?

Curious whether Scarborough or Toronto is more affordable? Let's quickly compare housing, living costs, and lifestyle to choose the right place for your budget.

Key Takeaways

• Scarborough generally offers lower living expenses compared to central Toronto.

• Housing in Scarborough is more affordable, making it ideal for first-time buyers and families.

• Toronto features vibrant city living, while Scarborough provides suburban comforts and green spaces.

• Your decision should match your lifestyle preferences and budget.

Monthly Living Costs: Scarborough vs. Toronto

Scarborough

Average monthly expenses (including rent, groceries, transportation, utilities) are approximately $3,200.

Toronto

Monthly costs average around $4,100, reflecting higher rents and urban lifestyle expenses.

Housing Costs

Scarborough

Scarborough offers affordability with detached homes averaging $1.2 million, condos around $600,000, and rents typically between $1,500–$2,200 per month.

Toronto

Downtown Toronto's average one-bedroom rent is around $2,600 plus utilities (~$200/month). Purchasing property here usually requires a higher budget, with average detached home prices around $1.6 million.

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Daily Expenses

Scarborough

• Groceries and dining: Average $500/month per person.

• Typical meal for two: Approximately $70.

• Gas: Approximately $1.60/litre.

Toronto

• Dining out: Typically $120 for two.

• Monthly transit pass: $156.

• Reflects higher city living costs and amenities.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Scarborough

• Abundant parks and natural attractions like the Scarborough Bluffs and Rouge Park.

• Family-friendly environment with quality schools and affordable living.

• Strong community atmosphere and excellent healthcare facilities.

Toronto

• Multicultural city with diverse dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

• Numerous career opportunities, especially in finance and tech industries.

• Famous for nightlife, sporting events, festivals, and urban convenience.

10 Reasons to Move to Scarborough

1. More affordable housing options.

2. Beautiful natural attractions (Scarborough Bluffs, parks).

3. Strong community-oriented neighborhoods.

4. Excellent schools and educational facilities.

5. Diverse and vibrant food scene.

6. Family-friendly environment with lots of recreational activities.

7. Lower cost of daily living.

8. Good public transit and convenient highway access.

9. Multiple cultural festivals and community events.

10. Proximity to Toronto’s downtown without high costs.

10 Reasons to Move to Toronto

1. Vibrant, multicultural environment.

2. Excellent healthcare and educational services.

3. Wide variety of world-class restaurants and dining experiences.

4. Rich in cultural attractions and events.

5. Strong job market, especially in finance, tech, and entertainment.

6. Iconic skyline and exciting nightlife.

7. Efficient and extensive public transportation system.

8. Access to high-quality amenities and luxury shopping.

9. Regular major sports events and concerts.

10. Enjoyable city parks and urban green spaces.

Making Your Decision

Choosing between Scarborough and Toronto depends on your priorities. Scarborough's affordability, community, and natural beauty suit those seeking suburban tranquility. Toronto offers an exciting urban lifestyle with higher costs, ideal for those craving the city energy.

At (416) GET-ALDO, we understand the importance of balancing lifestyle and budget when finding your ideal home. Whether you're drawn to Scarborough's friendly neighborhoods or Toronto's dynamic urban lifestyle, we're here to help you every step of the way.