Canada's Most Expensive Provinces for Hidden Housing Costs in 2025

Provinces With the Most Expensive Hidden Housing Costs in Canada (2025 Edition)

When most people think about homeownership, the first thing that comes to mind is the price tag on the property. But the real cost of owning a home in Canada extends far beyond the listing price. From property taxes to insurance, utilities, and ongoing maintenance, these "hidden housing costs" can add tens of thousands to your annual budget—and they vary significantly from province to province.

In this post, we’ll explore which provinces in Canada have the highest hidden housing costs in 2025, helping you make a more informed decision before buying your next home.

💰 What Are Hidden Housing Costs?

Hidden housing costs refer to ongoing and upfront expenses not always factored into your home search, including:

• Property taxes

• Utilities (heat, hydro, water)

• Home insurance

• Closing costs (legal fees, land transfer tax)

• Maintenance and repairs

• Strata/condo fees (if applicable)

• Municipal levies and permits

These costs can differ dramatically depending on the province—and even the city—where you buy.

🏠 Top 5 Provinces With the Most Expensive Hidden Housing Costs

1. British Columbia

Average hidden monthly costs: $1,250–$1,700+

Why it's expensive:

• High property taxes in Metro Vancouver

• Expensive home insurance, especially in seismic zones

• Sky-high strata/condo fees in Vancouver and Victoria

• Expensive closing costs, including Property Transfer Tax (PTT)

Pro tip: If you're buying a condo, expect monthly maintenance fees to exceed $500/month in many areas. Plus, BC's speculation and vacancy tax can also impact homeowners with secondary properties.

2. Ontario

Average hidden monthly costs: $1,100–$1,600+

Why it's expensive:

• High land transfer taxes (especially in Toronto where there's an additional municipal tax)

• Rising property taxes in many suburban municipalities

• Escalating home insurance premiums

• Increasing utility costs across southern Ontario

Pro tip: Toronto condo buyers often face condo fees of $600+ per month, plus significant special assessments in aging buildings.

3. Alberta

Average hidden monthly costs: $950–$1,300

Why it's expensive:

• Though home prices are more affordable, insurance costs are high due to climate-related risks (flooding, wildfires, hail)

• Maintenance and repair costs can be steep due to harsh winters

• Increasing municipal fees in fast-growing cities like Calgary and Edmonton

Pro tip: Alberta has no land transfer tax, but don’t let that fool you—home upkeep costs in colder climates add up fast.

4. Quebec

Average hidden monthly costs: $850–$1,200

Why it's expensive:

• High school and municipal property taxes

• Home insurance is higher in older Montreal neighbourhoods

• Winter maintenance (e.g., snow removal, heating) can spike costs

• Additional notary fees during closing

Pro tip: While homes are more affordable in Quebec, annual costs can be surprisingly high, especially in aging properties.

5. Nova Scotia

Average hidden monthly costs: $800–$1,100

Why it's expensive:

• Property taxes are among the highest in Atlantic Canada

• Home insurance rates are rising due to increased storm activity

• Heating costs (oil and electric) are significant during long winters

Pro tip: Be prepared for steep closing costs, especially if you're a non-resident or buying a second property.

🔍 Other Provinces to Watch

While the five above are the most expensive, here’s a quick snapshot of hidden housing costs in other provinces:

📈 Why Hidden Housing Costs Matter More in 2025–2026

With interest rates stabilizing but utility, insurance, and maintenance costs rising, buyers are more exposed than ever to hidden expenses. Not accounting for these could mean buying beyond your means—or underestimating the monthly burden of your dream home.

✅ Tips to Reduce Hidden Housing Costs

• Get a home inspection to avoid surprise repairs

• Compare insurance quotes before closing

• Choose energy-efficient homes with updated HVAC and windows

• Ask for a full breakdown of monthly fees (especially for condos)

• Consult your real estate professional to estimate total cost of ownership

🏡 Thinking of Buying in Ontario or BC?

Before you make your move, let us help you run the numbers properly. At Ana Bastas Realty, we don’t just look at listing prices—we help you understand the full cost of homeownership, from property taxes to long-term maintenance.

📞 Call us today at 647.938.8814 or visit www.anabastas.ca to start your search the smart way.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Canada is one of life’s biggest milestones—but it pays to look beyond the sticker price. From the mountains of BC to the coast of Nova Scotia, every province has its perks and pitfalls when it comes to hidden costs.

As we move through 2025 and into 2026, informed buyers will take a holistic view of what owning a home really means—and plan accordingly.