City Profile
Moncton, New Brunswick
Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Moncton, often referred to as the "Hub City" of the Maritimes, is the most populous city in New Brunswick, Canada, strategically located in the Petitcodiac River Valley. Its central inland position has historically made it a vital railway and land transportation hub for the region. The city was officially founded in 1766 by Pennsylvania German immigrants and has since adopted the motto "Resurgo" (Latin for "I rise again"), reflecting its resilience and growth.
In recent years, Moncton has experienced significant population growth, ranking among Canada's fastest-growing census metropolitan areas. This growth is attributed to its blend of economic opportunities, relative affordability, and a high quality of life, attracting newcomers, students, families, and professionals. The city is also notable for being Canada's first officially bilingual city, contributing to its diverse cultural fabric.
New Brunswick is a Maritime province known for its extensive forests, diverse coastline, and status as Canada's only officially bilingual province. The economy is driven by natural resources like forestry, fishing, and mining, alongside growing sectors such as advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, digital health, and information technology. Living in New Brunswick generally offers a lower cost of living compared to other Canadian provinces, with affordable housing and a relaxed, community-focused lifestyle. The province experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by snowy winters and warm, temperate summers.
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Moncton is generally considered affordable compared to larger Canadian cities, though it is about 8% higher than the New Brunswick average. According to Numbeo, Moncton's Cost of Living Index is 62.66 as of May 2026, relative to New York City. Housing costs, while having seen increases, remain a significant factor in the city's overall affordability.
However, a 2022 study by the Royal Bank of Canada indicated that Moncton was one of the least affordable cities for young people in Canada, primarily due to the gap between income and living expenses. Despite this, residents benefit from relatively lower expenses across various categories, including goods and services, transportation, and utilities, contributing to a manageable cost of living for many.
Income
Salary Insights
Moncton's economy is robust and diversified, with a strong foundation in its traditional transportation, distribution, retailing, and commercial sectors. Key industries driving the local economy include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and public administration. The city also sees strength in business, building and other support services, finance, insurance, real estate, wholesale trade, and warehousing.
The job market in Moncton has shown continued demand for skilled workers, reflecting the vitality of the local economy. The city has been recognized for its strong environment for business investment and growth, supported by a diverse talent pool. While a specific job growth rate for 2024-2025 was not available, the city's rapid population increase and economic momentum suggest a dynamic employment landscape.
The average salary in Moncton is $32,764 per year. You would need approximately $37,259 to live comfortably.
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Moncton primarily relies on personal vehicles, with residents predominantly commuting by car. However, the city is served by Codiac Transpo, a public bus network that covers Moncton, Dieppe, and Riverview, offering 19 routes and over 650 stops. Public transit ridership saw a significant increase of 32% in 2024, partly due to newcomers from areas where public transit is more common.
Moncton has an average Walk Score of 35, indicating that most errands require a car, though certain central areas are considered very walkable. The city also features an extensive trail network for walking and cycling, and all Codiac Transpo buses are equipped with bike racks. Despite efforts to enhance public transit, challenges like traffic congestion have emerged with the city's rapid growth.
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