Family Costs

As found in our Cost of Living Survey, families with children should also budget between $650 – $3,750 for child-related costs, including extracurricular activities, clothing, childcare, school expenses, and more.

School-aged children will be required to purchase school supplies. The amount of school supplies needed, and types, will vary on the grade of your youth, and the school of attendance. On average in Halifax, school supplies cost anywhere from $140 -180.

Childcare can be costly and difficult to gain in Nova Scotia. In Halifax, childcare costs average between $853 – $957 monthly. Costs outside of Halifax will vary, depending on the region. Provincially, students reported spending $350 monthly on childcare. If you need childcare, it is important to look early and get on a waitlist.

Winter clothing for your children is a large expense for families. Youth will often need multiples of their winter clothing. Students reported spending $300 on children’s winter clothing in the year.