What are prices like in Canada compared to the US?

Question

As a child, I visited Canada and I absolutely loved it there. Looking back, the only thing I can't remember is what prices were like there. I'm pretty such they're overall exactly like the prices in the US, but I just wanted to verify :)

Answer 1

I think the prices are generally pretty close, and I would agree with most of what the first two commentors mentioned, except with the provincial sales tax - it depends where you go. Alberta has no PST, only the 5% federal sales tax (GST), and it does not apply, as the other commentor mentioned, to grocery items, unless they are convenience items, or in a convenience package.

I know a few people who go to the US to do clothes shopping though, because it's cheaper, so don't come here to do that!

Answer 2

In general prices are comperable.  Clothing is I think, a little cheaper in the states.  Groceries are a little cheaper in Canada.  Cars are cheaper in the USA.  Gas is more expensive in Canada.  In Canada the sales taxes will get you.  There is both a provincial sales tax and a federal sales tax in most provinces, and although they are not applied to grocery items they combine to add anywhere from 12 to 14% on many items..

Answer 3

Basically prices in Canada are higher with the US dollar crumbling to worthlessness. The only thing that's actually cheaper in Canada is media because of the regulations in the states.

Answer 4

I live in Windsor, Ontario, on the border with Michigan (Detroit).  I don't know where the other answerers are shopping in Canada but, being on the border, I see huge differences in prices Canada vs. U.S.  Almost everything is cheaper in the States, and now, with the money being almost at par, it is an even better deal.

Everything from day to day household items (paper towels, laundry detergent, etc.), linens, clothing (especially shoes) to big ticket items, appliances, etc., are a better deal in the States.  In spite of the fact that the manufacturers say that they are making prices more equal due to the devalued U.S. dollar, a hardcover book that I see at Chapters for $35.00, say, is still about $12.00 less at Borders.  Of course, you have to comparison shop (things like CDs, DVDs, I don't find much different in price), but generally things are still a better deal in the States.  Gas, liquor and cigarettes are way more expensive here in Canada.  And then to top it off, our sales tax is 13% as opposed to 6% in Michigan.

Having said that, Canada is still a great place to live!  Happy Canada Day everyone!

Answer 5

Prices are generally the same in both places, except for the big-ticket items, like cars, which are more expensive in Canada.