Can You Live in St John’s on Less Than $1000 USD per Month?

If you’re considering moving to St John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador province in eastern Canada, you might be wondering what the cost of living is like. After all, affordability is a key factor in making any move, especially if you’re on a tight budget. In this post, we’ll dive into what you need to know about whether you can live in St John’s for less than $1000 USD per month.

Housing Costs

One of the biggest expenses you’ll face when moving to St John’s is housing. According to Numbeo, a website that tracks the cost of living in cities around the world, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $800 USD per month. If you’re willing to live a little further from the city center, you may be able to find cheaper options.Utilities, including electricity, water, and heating, will add an additional $150 to $200 per month to your housing costs. Internet will cost around $70 USD per month.

Food and Dining Costs

When it comes to food and dining, you have a variety of options in St John’s. If you’re willing to cook at home, you can save a lot of money by shopping at grocery stores like Sobeys or Dominion. The cost of groceries for one person is approximately $250-$300 USD per month.Eating out can be pricey in St John’s, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around $15 USD. A cup of coffee costs around $4 USD, and a beer at a local pub is around $7 USD.

Transportation Costs

St John’s has a limited public transportation system, so you may need to rely on taxis or your own vehicle to get around. Taxis in the city charge a base fare of $3.75 USD, with additional charges for distance traveled. If you plan to drive, you’ll need to factor in the cost of gas, which is currently around $4 USD per gallon.

Other Expenses

Aside from housing, food, and transportation, you’ll also need to consider other expenses when living in St John’s. These may include:- Entertainment: Ticket prices for movies, concerts, and other events vary, but expect to pay around $15 USD per ticket.- Health Care: If you’re not covered by Canada’s publicly-funded health care system, you’ll need to purchase health insurance, which can cost several hundred dollars per month.- Clothing: The cost of clothing in St John’s is comparable to other cities in Canada, with a pair of jeans costing around $60 USD.

The Verdict

So, can you live in St John’s for less than $1000 USD per month? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. If you’re willing to live in a smaller, less central apartment and cook most of your meals at home, you can keep your costs down. However, keep in mind that unexpected expenses can add up quickly, so it’s best to have some extra money saved up.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the cost of living in St John’s will depend on your lifestyle and preferences. While it may be possible to live on less than $1000 USD per month, you’ll need to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By doing your research and planning ahead, you can make your move to St John’s affordable and enjoyable.

An Insider’s Guide to Living in St. John’s

St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, is a hidden gem in Canada that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its colorful houses, rugged coastline, and friendly people, St. John’s warmly welcomes visitors to explore and experience the best of Newfoundland. As an insider, here’s my guide to the must-see attractions, local dining spots, cultural experiences, fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in St. John’s.

Local Attractions: Discovering St. John’s Hidden Gems

While Signal Hill, Cape Spear, and The Rooms are undoubtedly popular and worth visiting, St. John’s has several other hidden gems that only locals know. One of my favorite spots is Quidi Vidi, a quaint fishing village located just outside downtown St. John’s. Quidi Vidi offers picturesque views of the harbor, several hiking trails, and a small brewery where you can taste local beer. Another hidden gem is Petty Harbour, a charming fishing village with a rich history and breathtaking scenery. You can take a walking tour of the village, visit the local museum, and enjoy the fresh seafood at one of the restaurants.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Local Cuisine

St. John’s has a unique cuisine that combines traditional Newfoundland ingredients and flavors with global influences. One of the must-try dishes is a Jiggs dinner, which includes salt beef, cabbage, turnip, carrot, potato, and dumplings, and is often called the “Newfoundland National Dish.” For a contemporary twist on traditional recipes, check out Raymonds, a fine dining restaurant that offers seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a cozy pub atmosphere, visit The Duke of Duckworth, an iconic pub that has been serving St. John’s since 1984. Be sure to try their fish and chips!

Cultural Experiences: Immersing Yourself in St. John’s Vibrant Culture

St. John’s is a city rich in culture, art, music, and traditions. One of the best ways to experience the local culture is to attend the George Street Festival, a week-long celebration of music, food, and entertainment that takes place every July. For a taste of Newfoundland’s musical heritage, visit O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub, a cozy and welcoming pub famous for its live folk music shows. Another cultural highlight is the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival, held annually in October, which showcases the work of female filmmakers from around the world.

Local History: Exploring St. John’s Fascinating Past

St. John’s has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over 500 years, from the arrival of the Vikings and the Basques to the British colonization and the Great Fire of 1892. One of the most interesting historical landmarks is the Johnson Geo Centre, a multimedia museum that tells the story of the earth’s geological history and the history of Newfoundland and Labrador. Another great spot is the Commissariat House, a restored 19th-century house that showcases the British colonial life in St. John’s.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Getting the Ultimate St. John’s Experience

For those looking for unique and unconventional experiences in St. John’s, here are a few suggestions. First, take a whale watching tour from Bay Bulls and witness the majestic humpback whales that grace the coast of Newfoundland. Second, visit the colorful street art murals in downtown St. John’s, including the famous Water Street mural. Third, go on a guided ghost tour of the city’s haunted sites, including The Rooms, the Fluvarium, and the Signal Hill Tattoo.

In conclusion, St. John’s is a city that offers much more than meets the eye. From its hidden gems to its fascinating history, from its local cuisine to its vibrant culture, from its conventional to unconventional suggestions, St. John’s has something for everyone. As an insider, I hope you enjoy exploring this beautiful and welcoming city!