Cost of Living FAQ - North of 60
Cost of Living - FAQ
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How comparable is the cost of groceries compared to other places?
It depends on where you are comparing prices to and which items. Certain items, suchas meat and produce, may have a higher price tag in Yellowknife.
Due to longer delivery routes, produce generally doesnot have as long of a shelf life as otherlocations. Shopping more frequently may be necessary.
Click on the following links to explore the costof groceries in Yellowknife:- https://www.yellowknifecoop.crs/sites/yellowknife/wps/portal/crs/yellowknife
- https://www.yourindependentgrocer.ca/ (change the location to Yellowknife)
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How comparable is the cost of gasoline to other places?
It depends on the location you are comparing it to. It also depends on the day.
See the current price of gas: https://find.shell.com/ca/fuel/10052479-range-lk-rd -
How comparable is the cost of heating oil and propane to other places?
The price of oil and propane is typically higher in Yellowknife.
Heating oil is currently more expensive than propane. -
How comparable is the cost of alcohol to other places?
The cost of alcohol is higher in Yellowknife than in communities down south.
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How is the cost of dining out?
The cost of eating out can be significantly higher than elsewhere. For example, a $5 pizza special for a major chain is $9 in Yellowknife.
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How comparable is the cost of storage units to other places?
Storage is costly. Options are limited with very little heated storage units available.
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Are prices of home repairs/renovations comparable to other locations?
With a shortage of contractors in Yellowknife service costs are quite high and difficult to secure. Parts and supplies are often shipped in, which will also drives up the cost.
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How about internet options and cost?
- Northwestel ( https://nwtel.ca/internet-plans) is the provider most commonly used.
- SSI Micro ( https://www.ssicanada.com/ssi-yellowknife/) is available and a great option for going out on land or if travelling north.
- Many members have switched to Starlink . https://www.starlink.com/residential
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How comparable is the cost of air travel to other places?
Air travel is more expensive and somewhat limited.
The major airlines servicing Yellowknife are Air Canada, Air North (summer only), Canadian North and West Jet. -
What is the cost of sporting goods?
Prices will vary depending on where you shop. Options are limited.
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Is the cost of clothing more expensive in Yellowknife?
Typically, the cost of clothing can be more expensive in Yellowknife. Shopping options are also limited.
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Are prices of repairs/renovations for my home comparable to other locations?
We currently have a shortage of contractors in Yellowknife and supplies often have to be ordered in, which drives the price up.
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Are repairs for my vehicle comparable to other locations?
Labour costs are higher than most other areas of the country. There are three dealerships in town. If you have a vehicle that is not a make sold in Yellowknife, you may be waiting for parts to come in longer than at the dealerships.
It is wise to get any repairs, purchase winter tires or winterizing (battery blanket, block heater) done before you arrive in Yellowknife. -
What are the good and services taxes for the Northwest Territories?
The Northwest Territories has no HST, only GST of 5%.
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What are the employment tax rates for the Northwest Territories?
The taxable income rates are as follows:
- 5.9% on the first $50,597
- 8.6% on the next $50,601
- 12.2% on the next $63,327
- 14.05% on the amount over $164,525
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Do military members and their families get local discounts?
PSP offers a recreation plan that gives you and your family access to discounts on movie tickets, West Edmonton Mall passes, Golf Club passes, access to the multiplex, fieldhouse, swimming pool and to certain local businesses and gyms. They also offer equipment rentals such as kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, bikes and more.
See what PSP offers
See which local businesses offer military discounts
