Retire in United States vs Canada: The 2026 Freedom Comparison

Geo-arbitrage is the strategy of earning a strong currency (like USD or EUR) while living in a country with a lower cost of living. In 2026, this is the fastest way to achieve FIRE, allowing you to reduce expenses by 40-60% without lowering your quality of life.

The Freedom Clock calculates your exact 'Freedom Date' based on your savings, income, and the real-time cost of living in your target country. It accounts for 2026 inflation rates and tax laws to give you a precise timeline for early retirement.

A rule of thumb suggesting you can withdraw 4% of your portfolio annually without running out of money over 30 years.

Yes, depending on your 'combined income,' up to 85% of your benefits may be subject to federal income tax.

Florida, Texas, Nevada, Washington, Wyoming, South Dakota, Tennessee, Alaska, and New Hampshire.

Expect to pay $500–$1,200 per month for a silver-tier plan through the ACA marketplace if retiring before Medicare age (65).

Long-term rates are 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on your taxable income level.

At 3% inflation, your purchasing power halves in roughly 24 years, making inflation-protected assets like TIPS essential.

Generally considered to be an annual spend under $40,000, usually requiring relocation to low-cost-of-living (LCOL) areas.

Yes, via Rule 72(t) (SEPP) or a Roth IRA conversion ladder, you can access funds early without a 10% penalty.

While safety varies by city, the US remains stable; suburban and rural areas generally offer very high safety scores.

In cities like San Francisco or NYC, a 1-bedroom apartment averages $3,200–$4,000 per month.

As of 2026, the inclusion rate is 66.67% for annual capital gains exceeding $250,000 for individuals.

Major hubs like Toronto and Vancouver are in a rental crisis; expect to pay $2,500–$3,200 CAD for a 1-bedroom apartment.

Permanent residents and some work permit holders get free healthcare after a waiting period, though it doesn't cover dental or prescriptions.

For a 'comfortable' lifestyle, a couple generally needs a nest egg of at least $1.2M–$1.5M CAD in a 4% withdrawal scenario.

A Tax-Free Savings Account where you can invest a set annual amount ($7,000 in 2026) and pay zero tax on gains or withdrawals.

The foreign buyer ban has been extended in many urban areas; check current 2026 federal and provincial restrictions before searching.

Canada is extremely safe with low violent crime rates; property crime in large cities is the primary concern.

The Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security are federal pension programs; eligibility depends on years of residence and contributions.

Winter is harsh in most provinces; Victoria and Vancouver (BC) offer the mildest climates but the highest housing costs.

Sales tax ranges from 5% (Alberta) to 15% (Atlantic provinces) depending on where you reside.