These 8 Quebec towns are Canada's best-kept secret for affordable homes
As home prices continue to skyrocket across Canada, finding an affordable place to buy is no easy feat, especially in cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
But if you're looking to stretch your budget without sacrificing quality of life, you're not totally out of luck — Quebec has emerged as the reigning champion when it comes to affordable homeownership.
In fact, eight different cities in the province have topped a list of the most affordable places to buy a home in Canada for 2025. According to a recent Nesto report, which took house prices, average household incomes, and the cost of living into account, many of Quebec's smaller cities and towns offer some serious value. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an industrial hub, there's no shortage of affordable options in this province.
The cities on the list are not just affordable — they also boast excellent quality of life, from scenic views and outdoor activities to growing job markets.
With that in mind, here's a breakdown of the eight Quebec towns that made the top 10 list for the most affordable places to buy a home right now.
Rivière-du-Loup, Quebec
Located in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, Rivière-du-Loup is known for its whale-watching and its breathtaking views along the St. Lawrence River. Not only is it a dream for nature lovers, but it's also incredibly affordable. Average home prices here are about $294,955, far below the national average of $720,000.
- Average Home Price: $294,955
- Average Household Income: $70,894
Thetford Mines
Once famous for its asbestos industry, Thetford Mines is now known for its affordability and strong ties to the region's rich natural resources. If you're looking for a place where you can stretch your budget without sacrificing access to urban amenities, Thetford Mines may be it, as homes here go for less than $200,000.
- Average Home Price: $196,537
- Average Household Income: $64,231
Sainte-Marie, Quebec
For those who want the best of both worlds — peaceful riverside living with close proximity to Quebec City — Sainte-Marie is the place to be. With an average home price of $306,957, it's a bit higher than some of the other towns on the list, but its affordability combined with its stunning location makes it a worthy contender.
- Average Home Price: $306,957
- Average Household Income: $87,119
Alma, Quebec
Alma, situated in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, offers affordable homes in a region known for its outdoor activities. The city is a hub for agriculture and industry, and with an average home price of $271,142, it's a great option for anyone looking for value in a quieter area.
- Average Home Price: $271,142
- Average Household Income: $74,485
Rimouski, Quebec
Rimouski, often referred to as Quebec's hub for marine research and conservation, is growing rapidly but remains incredibly affordable. With a price tag of around $298,714, Rimouski offers a unique mix of scientific innovation and coastal living, all at an affordable price point.
- Average Home Price: $298,714
- Average Household Income: $72,435
Victoriaville, Quebec
Located in the Centre-du-Québec region, Victoriaville is known for its vibrant local economy and affordable living. With a strong industrial sector and beautiful natural surroundings, it's a great place to settle down, with average home prices hovering around $297,150.
- Average Home Price: $297,150
- Average Household Income: $68,269
Dolbeau-Mistassini, Quebec
Nestled in the heart of Lac-Saint-Jean, Dolbeau-Mistassini is a rural town that offers the charm of rural living combined with affordable housing. Average home prices here are just $219,932, making it an affordable option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
- Average Home Price: $219,932
- Average Household Income: $68,175
Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec
In the heart of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda rounds out Nesto's top 10 list. Known for its mining industry and growing cultural scene, this city offers a higher average home price of $316,351, but it also boasts a higher average household income of $82,859, making it a great option for those in search of a solid economic base.
- Average Home Price: $316,351
- Average Household Income: $82,859
Rounding out Nesto's top 10 list for affordable home prices were places like Tracadie and Bathurst in New Brunswick.
The report, which you can check out here, also includes a list of cities with the most affordable rental markets.
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A Topping Retreat log cabin overlooking Lake Témiscaming.Courtesy of M Real Estate.
One property on the Topping estate overlooks the rapids of the Kipawa River.Courtesy of M Real Estate.
A view of the living area of the red pine cabin from the second floor.Courtesy of M Real Estate.
A wood-burning fireplace made with river stones. Courtesy of M Real Estate.
A wraparound deck overlooking the river.Courtesy of M Real Estate.
A view of the house from the lake, showing the sheer cliff below.© Groupe Venise & Peter Wyslouzil
A view of the lake from the house itself at dusk.© Groupe Venise & Peter Wyslouzil
The screened-in veranda features an outdoor grill and seating area.© Groupe Venise & Peter Wyslouzil
Aerial view of 749, boulevard du Griffon, Gaspé, QC. Right: View out the sea-facing windows.
The combined living, dining and kitchen area of 749, boulevard du Griffon, Gaspé, QC.
The kitchen at 749, boulevard du Griffon, Gaspé, QC.
The loft bedroom at 749, boulevard du Griffon, Gaspé, QC.
The view from 91, route Langlois, Sainte-Flavie, Quebec.
The living room of 91, route Langlois.
The kitchen and dining area of 91, route Langlois.
One of three bedrooms at 91, route Langlois.
The view fromt he uper balcony of 91, route Langlois.
The kitchen, complete with a beautiful white island and matching counters in the house for sale.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
The wooden dining table and chairs in the stone-walled dining area in the house.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
White furniture in the stone-walled round living room.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
Wooden stairs in a stone-walled spinal staircase.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
A white bed in a stone-walled bedroom. Right: A mirror, a tub, and a glass-walled shower in one of the bathrooms.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
A white bed and a fireplace in one of the bedrooms. Right: A bathroom with a stone and glass-walled shower, a sink and a toilet.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
The exterior of the house for sale, including the terrasse.Saguy Elbaz | Sotheby's International Realty
