Is Toronto expensive? What things really cost in 2026
Short answer
Toronto is expensive, Canada's priciest city alongside Vancouver, with hotel and restaurant prices close to big US cities. A mid-range day is about C$345 per person, with the room taking almost half. Remember that menu and shop prices exclude 13% HST, and tips of about 15% are expected at table service.
Daily budget: backpacker, mid-range, luxury
| Budget | Mid-range | Comfort | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bed (per person, sharing) | C$90 | C$160 | C$350 |
| Food & drink | C$45 | C$90 | C$200 |
| Sights & tickets | C$25 | C$80 | C$200 |
| Local transport | C$7 | C$15 | C$60 |
| Per person, per day | C$167 | C$345 | C$810 |
Approximate 2026 prices, two people sharing a room. From our Toronto day-cost table.
What things cost
| Item | Typical price* |
|---|---|
| Peameal bacon sandwich at St Lawrence Market | roughly C$10-14 |
| Jamaican beef patty | about C$3-5 |
| Dim sum meal | C$25-40 per person |
| TTC ride (tap or PRESTO) | about C$3.30, transfers free within 2 hours |
| CN Tower | about C$45-55 |
| Royal Ontario Museum | about C$26-30 |
| UP Express airport to Union Station | about C$12-13 |
| Mid-range double downtown | C$230-380 |
* Approximate prices, October 2026. They change with season and exchange rates.
Where the money goes
Accommodation is the main cost, and hotels add 13% HST plus a 6% municipal accommodation tax. Eating out is the next share: add tax and tip to every menu price, which can mean roughly 30% more than listed. Attractions like the CN Tower, ROM, Casa Loma and Niagara trips add up. Public transport is reasonably priced.
When it is cheaper
January to March is the cheapest time for hotels, often 25-40% below summer (check current rates), though it is cold. Early September (TIFF) and summer weekends are the most expensive.
How to spend less
- Use the Toronto CityPASS only if you will visit at least three included attractions.
- Visit the AGO on free Wednesday evenings.
- Eat in Chinatown, Kensington Market and the inner suburbs rather than the Entertainment District.
- Tip about 15% on the pre-tax subtotal, choosing 'custom' on card machines.
- Take the UP Express from the airport instead of a taxi.
- Take the Toronto Islands ferry (about C$9 return) for skyline views instead of a paid cruise.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Common questions
Is Toronto expensive?
Yes. Budget about C$167 a day or C$345 mid-range per person, plus tax and tips.
How much should I tip in Toronto?
About 15% of the pre-tax subtotal at table service; small or no tips at counters. Check for automatic service charges.
Is the Toronto CityPASS worth it?
Yes if you will visit at least three included attractions, such as the CN Tower, ROM and Casa Loma.