🇨🇦 Cost of Living in Quebec City - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$64,610 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.4% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$6,378 (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend15.3% (2024)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.9% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Quebec City is generally considered to be moderate, with daily expenses ranging from $80-150 USD per day for a mid-range traveler.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-100 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$100-180 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$200-300 USD
CurrencyCAD
Tipping Customexpected (10-15% in restaurants and bars)
How Expensive Is Quebec City?
Quebec City is a popular tourist destination in Canada, and its cost of living is relatively high compared to other cities in North America. However, it is still considered to be more affordable than many major cities in the United States and Europe. The city's unique blend of French and Canadian culture, rich history, and stunning architecture make it an attractive destination for visitors from around the world. Compared to other Canadian cities, Quebec City is generally more expensive than cities like Montreal, but less expensive than cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
In terms of global averages, Quebec City is considered to be a moderately expensive city, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation falling somewhere in between those of Western Europe and the United States. However, the city's high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, and strong economy make it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$20-40
Basic dorm rooms or budget hotels, often with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$80-150
Comfortable hotels with private rooms and amenities like Wi-Fi and breakfast
Luxury/Resort
$200-500
High-end hotels with luxurious amenities and services, often located in historic buildings
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$600-1,200
City center apartments, with prices varying depending on size and amenities
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$10-20
Casual Restaurant
$20-40
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$50-100
Fine Dining
$100-250
Beer (local)
$5-10
Coffee
$2-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-5
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-3
Taxi (per km)
$2-5
Domestic flight
$100-300
Fuel (per liter)
$1-2
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
600
1,000
1,800
Food
400
800
1,200
Transport
100
200
300
Utilities
100
200
300
Entertainment
200
400
600
Total
1,400
2,600
4,100
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid peak tourist prices.
Take advantage of Quebec City's many free or low-cost attractions, such as the historic district and the Saint Lawrence River.
Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to save on transportation costs.
Eat at local eateries or try some of Quebec's famous street food, such as poutine or smoked meat sandwiches.
Look for discounts or package deals on accommodations and attractions to save even more.
Learn some basic French phrases to help you navigate the city and interact with locals, who may offer you a warmer welcome if you make an effort to speak their language.