Top 10 Affordable Canadian Cities to Buy a Bungalow in 2025

If the idea of owning a home in Canada feels more like a dream than a plan, you’re not alone. Rising home prices in big cities have more consumers looking elsewhere; what they discover could surprise you.

This blog guides you to the most reasonably priced Canadian cities to purchase a bungalow by 2025.  These cities provide comfort, space, and value, without the Toronto or Vancouver price tag, whether your purchase is a first-time retiree looking to downsize or an investor investigating commercial real estate for sale.

Let’s break it down.

Why Bungalows Are a Smart Buy in 2025

Before we dive into the cities, let’s talk about why bungalows are such a hot property type right now:

• Aging homeowners, families with small children, or anyone who values accessibility should all live single level.

• More often, rare outdoor space is provided by larger lots.

• Compared to multi-level homes, lower energy and maintenance costs.

• High resale value for markets including suburban and semi-urban areas.

• Ideal for mixed-zoning areas, small businesses, or rental income use.
  

If you're navigating the Canadian housing market, a bungalow offers practical advantages at a time when every dollar counts.

What Makes a City Affordable?

Affordability doesn’t just mean a lower sticker price. Here’s what we’ve considered:

• Average home price
  

• Portion of household income needed for mortgage payments
  

• Local income levels and cost of living
  

• Real estate market stability
  

• Potential for commercial or rental use
  

With that in mind, here are Canada’s top cities where you can still find bungalows without breaking the bank.

Top 10 Affordable Canadian Cities to Buy a Bungalow

1. Thunder Bay, Ontario

Sitting at the top of the list is Thunder Bay.  Apart from having the lowest average house price under $300K, just about 22% of a household's income goes toward a mortgage, much below the national average.

What increases its appeal even more? Excellent for families and retirees, this is a close-knit community. Its low overheads and location are causing a minor increase in commercial real estate interest.

2. Saint John, New Brunswick

Imagine not paying coastal premiums and owning a house near the sea. Saint John presents exactly what she does. It's a cheap refuge since homes average under $270,000, and less than 26% of income is used for a mortgage.

Bungalow listings are also perfect for retirees looking for peace or remote workers.

3. Red Deer, Alberta

Red Deer, which lies halfway between Calgary and Edmonton, provides the best of both worlds: close access to big cities and a reasonably priced local real estate market. With housing expenses that consume just over a quarter of income and median incomes higher than many areas of the nation, this is an excellent place for buyers on a budget.

Long-term value in this city will appeal to investors wishing to purchase bungalows or investigate commercial real estate or properties for sale.

4. Trois-Rivières, Quebec

This lesser-known gem in Quebec strikes a balance between affordability and charm. It’s a small city with a big personality, offering riverside views, a rich cultural history, and surprisingly low housing costs.

If you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a secondary home, Trois-Rivières delivers with value-packed bungalow options.

5. Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton is one of the few big Canadian cities where you can still find a decent-sized bungalow under $400,000. Given a median household income close to $100K, purchasers can maintain financial flexibility while obtaining long-term assets.

It's a wise choice for real estate investors since its expanding population generates rental possibilities.

6. Regina, Saskatchewan

Known for its prairie landscapes and community-first vibe, Regina remains one of the most accessible housing markets in Western Canada. The bungalow market of Saskatchewan here is strong—ideal for those who want space, peace, and a strong sense of neighborhood.

It’s also one of the few places where commercial conversions of residential properties are still feasible due to relaxed zoning in some areas.

7.  St. John's

St. John's offers some of the most reasonably priced East Coast homes and beautiful coastlines. Although mortgage payments make up just over 30% of income, the average house price here is $315,000—far below national averages. Especially well-liked among retirees and artists looking for inspiration and solitude, St. John's is known for its vibrant homes, friendly residents, and ocean views. Particularly for those wishing to invest in seasonal rental properties or find a more sedate pace of life, the bungalow market provides good long-term value.

8. Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

Quebec City is unique if its charm and way of life count just as much as its financial situation. It offers a reasonable purchasing environment for homes with average values of $345,000 and a substantial median income. Beyond price, the city's architectural beauty, culture, and tourism appeal make it a strong candidate for real estate appreciation over time. Popular on the suburban margins of the town, bungalows provide more room and privacy while still allowing you proximity to the activity.

9. Sherbrooke, Quebec

Sherbrooke, a scholarly and cultural center in southern Quebec, remains largely invisible to many homebuyers. Given that home prices are $330,000, they provide actual value, particularly in light of the strong demand for rental property.

As a university town, there's a constant flow of students and professionals, making bungalow investments here ideal for income-generating properties. The mix of affordability, livability, and consistent demand makes Sherbrooke a solid pick for first-time buyers or anyone looking to expand their real estate portfolio.

10. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg, Manitoba, one of Canada's most steady and balanced housing markets, finishes the list. The city provides a rare combination of accessibility and long-term security since average house prices are about $342,000, and mortgage affordability is still within reach for the average household. Its educational institutions, healthcare system, and robust infrastructure help to add appeal.

Final Thoughts: Should You Make the Move?

If you’ve been holding off on buying a home due to high prices, now might be the time to think differently. The cities above prove that you don’t have to sacrifice quality of life for affordability.

Whether you're looking to buy bungalows, explore commercial real estate for sale, or simply relocate somewhere more sustainable, these markets are ripe with opportunity. You’ll not only get more space for your money, but you may also find a stronger sense of community, a slower pace, and lower stress.

In an unpredictable Canadian housing market, smart buyers are the ones who widen their lens—and these cities are a great place to start.

FAQs

Q1. Which city in Canada has the cheapest bungalows?

A: Thunder Bay, ON, offers the most affordable bungalows in Canada with average prices under $300,000.

Q2. Are bungalows a smart real estate investment in 2025?

A: Yes, bungalows offer great value, high demand, and resale potential in today’s housing market.

Q3. Where can I buy budget-friendly commercial real estate in Canada?

A: Cities like Red Deer, Regina, and Saint John offer affordable commercial real estate options.

Q4. Which provinces have low-cost housing markets?

A: New Brunswick, Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta have some of Canada’s most affordable housing markets.