Living Costs In New Brunswick

There are two places called New Brunswick: one a province in Canada, and the other a city in New Jersey, USA.

Cost of Living in New Brunswick, Canada

New Brunswick, Canada, is known for its natural beauty, friendly communities, and excellent educational institutions. The cost of living in New Brunswick is relatively affordable compared to many other provinces in Canada. The average rent for students ranges from CAD 500 to CAD 900 per month for a one-bedroom apartment or shared accommodation near universities and colleges. The cost of food and other necessities is generally in line with the Canadian average, with students spending around CAD 200 to CAD 300 per month on groceries.

Cost of Living in New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA

In contrast, the cost of living in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is 14% higher than the national average. Housing expenses are 34% higher than the national average, and other expenses such as utilities, transportation, and groceries are also higher than the national average. The median home price in New Brunswick, NJ, is 44.7% higher than the national average, and monthly rent is 60.6% higher.

Housing, utilities, and transportation

The cost of living in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is about 14% higher than the national average. Housing expenses are 34% higher than the national average, with the average house price being $287,900. This is a 7.1% increase from last year. Despite the increase, house prices in New Brunswick are still relatively low compared to the rest of Canada, with the province having the lowest average house price in the country.

Utility prices in New Brunswick are 10% higher than the national average. The province's electricity rates are among the lowest in Atlantic Canada.

New Brunswick has a well-developed transit system, including local shuttles, buses, and trains, which can help reduce transportation costs. Transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 9% higher than the national average. The city of New Brunswick also offers a free curb-to-curb transportation service called Dial-A-Ride for elderly, disabled, and low-income residents. This service provides transportation to non-emergency medical, mental health, and physical therapy appointments, as well as visits to social service agencies.

Food and groceries

The cost of living in New Brunswick is generally lower than in other parts of Canada and the US. This includes the cost of food and groceries, which is substantially lower than almost anywhere else in North America.

In New Brunswick, Canada, the average student can expect to spend around CAD 200 to CAD 300 per month on groceries. This is in line with the Canadian average. Shopping at local markets, taking advantage of sales, and cooking at home can help students reduce costs further.

In New Brunswick, New Jersey, grocery prices are 5% higher than the national average. However, the overall cost of living in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is 14% higher than the national average.

In July 2022, food prices in New Brunswick, Canada, were almost 10% higher than they were the previous year. This was driven by the high cost of food and fuel. Nationally, food prices in Canada rose by 8.8% during this period, while in New Brunswick, the cost of groceries increased by 9.2%. According to food policy expert Sylvain Charlebois, the nature of food supply in the Maritimes means that the region is often more susceptible to price shocks than other parts of the country. The increased cost of food has led some residents to make changes to their diets and shopping habits, such as buying less meat, shopping locally, and supporting local farmers.

Healthcare

Under Canadian law, all provinces and territories must provide universal, publicly funded healthcare to all citizens and legal residents. In New Brunswick, this is known as NB Medicare, and it is administered by the New Brunswick Department of Health. Medicare covers most basic health services, but there are still some out-of-pocket expenses.

NB Medicare Coverage

Medicare will pay for the following services when performed by an insured practitioner:

• Most medical services provided by a physician in their office or in a hospital if medically required.
• Certain specified surgical dental procedures performed in a hospital. Please note that extractions and dental work are not insured services even when performed in a hospital.
• Treating providers may either choose to bill Medicare or bill you directly for an insured service. If a physician chooses to bill you in excess of Medicare rates, they must advise you before providing the service.
• NB hospitals do not bill NB residents for insured hospital services.
• NB Medicare will cover standard hospital accommodation and meals, nursing services, drugs administered in the hospital, operating room, delivery room and anesthetic facilities, laboratory, X-ray, and other diagnostic services as deemed necessary, therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and audiology, and routine surgical supplies.

What NB Medicare Does Not Cover

• Ambulance services and transportation costs to and from your place of residence to obtain medical or hospital services.
• Routine dental services and dentures.
• Prescription drugs and medicines (unless you are covered by one of the specialty drug plans).
• Examinations at the request of a third party (e.g. for employment, travel purposes, etc.).
• Services provided by acupuncturists, chiropractors, chiropodists, dentists, massotherapists, naturopaths, opticians, optometrists, orthodontists, osteopaths, pharmacists, physiotherapists, podiatrists, psychologists or private duty nurses.
• Eye glasses, frames, eye examinations and contact lenses.
• Any cosmetic surgery.
• Artificial insemination.
• Durable medical equipment such as walkers, special crutches, and prosthetic devices such as artificial limbs.
• Services deemed by the province as “experimental” or part of “applied research”.
• Physician advice or prescriptions renewed by telephone.
• Dental services provided by a physician.
• Stomach stapling (gastric stapling or bypass).
• Immunizations that you can get via Public Health clinics, unless medically necessary and done by a physician.

Private Health Insurance

Despite Medicare, many families end up paying around 30% of medical costs out of pocket. This is why it is recommended to have good private health insurance. Private health insurance also helps cover essential yet expensive services like dental care, vision care, and prescription medications, which are not covered or have very limited protection by NB Medicare.

The cost of a New Brunswick health insurance plan varies depending on the type of coverage, the insurance provider, your age, gender, health status, and the specific plan chosen. Basic health insurance plans that provide coverage for essential medical services and prescription drugs might start at around $50 to $100 per month for an individual. More comprehensive plans that include coverage for prescription medications, dental care, vision care, and specialised treatments can range from $100 to $300 or more per month for an individual.

Education

The cost of education in New Brunswick varies depending on the specific program and institution. For domestic undergraduate students, tuition fees typically range from CAD 6,000 to CAD 9,000 per year. International students can expect higher fees, ranging from CAD 15,000 to CAD 25,000 per year.

New Brunswick has a reliable public transportation system, and students can benefit from discounted monthly passes, typically costing around CAD 70 to CAD 100. The cost of food and other necessities is generally in line with the Canadian average, with students spending around CAD 200 to CAD 300 per month on groceries.

New Brunswick's education system has come under scrutiny in recent years due to its high spending and relatively poor student performance. Despite increased spending, New Brunswick performs poorly on standardised tests compared to other provinces. This has sparked discussions about potential reforms to improve student outcomes.

Entertainment

New Brunswick, Canada, is known for its natural beauty, friendly communities, and excellent educational institutions. The province offers a wide range of affordable entertainment options for its residents and students. Here is an overview of the entertainment and recreational activities in New Brunswick:

• Cultural Events and Festivals: New Brunswick is known for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting various local cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These events offer a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, and they are often low-cost or free to attend.
• National Parks and Hiking Trails: The province boasts a wealth of natural beauty, with wide areas of unspoiled nature and coastal islands. Residents can explore the many national parks, forests, and hiking trails, such as the famous Fundy National Park, known for its stunning Bay of Fundy and the world's highest tides.
• Performing Arts and Theatres: New Brunswick has a thriving performing arts scene, with venues such as the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC), the George Street Playhouse, and the Crossroads Theatre Company. These venues host a variety of performances, including ballet, theatre productions, and concerts.
• Museums and Historical Sites: The province has a rich history, dating back to the early exploration and settlement by Europeans. Residents can explore historic sites, such as the Acadian Historical Village, Kings Landing Historical Settlement, and the Fredericton Region Museum. These sites offer a glimpse into the province's past and are often educational and entertaining.
• Sports and Recreation: New Brunswick offers a range of sports and recreational activities for all ages. Residents can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter, and hiking, biking, and kayaking in the warmer months. The province also has several golf courses, sports complexes, and recreational centres for indoor and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
• Dining and Nightlife: New Brunswick has a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants, breweries, and cafes offering a variety of cuisines. The province also has a lively nightlife, with options such as the Stress Factory Comedy Club and various bars and pubs, providing entertainment and social gatherings for residents and visitors alike.

New Brunswick, New Jersey, offers a variety of entertainment options for its residents and visitors. Here is an overview of some of the entertainment choices available in the city:

• Performing Arts and Theatres: New Brunswick is home to several renowned performing arts centres and theatres, including the American Repertory Ballet, George Street Playhouse, and the Crossroads Theatre Company. These venues host ballet performances, plays, and other cultural events throughout the year.
• Dining and Nightlife: The city boasts a diverse dining scene, with restaurants serving various cuisines, such as The Frog and the Peach, and Harvest Moon Brewery & Cafe. For those who enjoy a good laugh, the Stress Factory Comedy Club offers a unique entertainment experience. Additionally, the city has a vibrant nightlife, with bars, pubs, and clubs providing live music and social gatherings.
• Parks and Gardens: New Brunswick offers several parks and green spaces for residents to enjoy, such as the Buccleuch Park and the New Brunswick City Center/Downtown area. These spaces provide a peaceful escape from the city life and often host community events and gatherings.
• Historical Sites and Tours: The city has a rich history, and residents can explore sites such as the Buccleuch Mansion, offering tours and a glimpse into the past. The New Brunswick Historical Society also provides resources and insights into the city's historical significance.
• Festivals and Community Events: New Brunswick hosts a variety of festivals and community events throughout the year, bringing the city to life. These events include the famous Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival, attracting international artists and music lovers alike.
• Art Galleries and Museums: The city is home to several art galleries and museums, showcasing the works of local and renowned artists. These cultural spaces provide an opportunity for residents to engage with the arts and learn about the local artistic community.

Frequently asked questions