10 Most Expensive Places in NWT

The Northwest Territories (NWT) in Canada is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences. However, it is also home to some of the most expensive places in the country. In this article, we will explore the top , shedding light on their characteristics, attractions, and why living or vacationing in these areas may require a bit more financial planning.

1. Yellowknife

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife is the capital of NWT and the most populous city in the territory. It is also the most expensive place to live in NWT due to its high cost of housing, transportation, and groceries. Despite the high prices, Yellowknife offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, numerous outdoor activities, and a strong job market in sectors like mining and government.

2. Hay River

Situated on the south shore of Great Slave Lake, Hay River is known as the “Hub of the North.” While it is not as expensive as Yellowknife, housing and groceries can still be quite pricey. The town offers beautiful scenery, fishing opportunities, and a close-knit community, making it an attractive place to live or visit.

3. Inuvik

Located in the Mackenzie River Delta, Inuvik is a remote town in NWT. Due to its isolation and transportation costs, the prices of goods and services can be significantly higher than in urban areas. Inuvik is renowned for its Midnight Sun Festival and the famous Igloo Church, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

4. Fort Smith

Situated on the Slave River near the Alberta border, Fort Smith is a small town known for its natural beauty and historic sites. While the cost of living is relatively high, Fort Smith offers a tight-knit community, stunning hiking trails, and access to Wood Buffalo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. Fort Simpson

Located on an island at the confluence of the Mackenzie and Liard Rivers, Fort Simpson is another expensive place in NWT. The cost of living is elevated due to its remote location and limited access to goods and services. However, Fort Simpson captivates visitors with its picturesque scenery, Indigenous cultural experiences, and proximity to Nahanni National Park Reserve.

6. Fort Resolution

Situated on the south shore of Great Slave Lake, Fort Resolution is a small Dene community known for its fishing and hunting opportunities. The cost of living is higher than in larger cities due to factors such as transportation costs. Fort Resolution provides a tranquil environment, rich cultural heritage, and a chance to witness the Northern Lights.

7. Norman Wells

Located on the Mackenzie River, Norman Wells is an oil town in NWT. The high cost of living can be attributed to its remote location and the demands of the oil industry. Despite the expenses, Norman Wells offers picturesque landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and a strong sense of community.

8. Tulita

Tulita, also known as Fort Norman, is a small community situated on the Mackenzie River. Due to its remote location, the cost of living in Tulita can be steep. However, the town is rich in Indigenous culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an enchanting destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

9. Tuktoyaktuk

Located on the Arctic Ocean, Tuktoyaktuk is a remote community accessible by road through the iconic Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway. The isolated location and limited resources contribute to the higher costs of living. However, Tuktoyaktuk offers unique experiences like traditional Inuit culture, mesmerizing tundra landscapes, and the chance to dip your toes in the Arctic Ocean.

10. Behchokǫ̀

Behchokǫ̀, also known as Rae-Edzo, is the largest community in the Tłı̨chǫ region of NWT. Although it may not be as expensive as some other places on this list, the cost of living can still be higher than average due to the limited availability of goods and services. Behchokǫ̀ is a cultural hub with opportunities to learn about the Tłı̨chǫ culture, participate in traditional activities, and explore the nearby pristine wilderness.

In conclusion, the Northwest Territories is not without its expensive areas. From the capital city of Yellowknife to remote communities like Tuktoyaktuk, the high cost of living in these places can be attributed to factors such as isolation, limited access to goods and services, and the unique challenges of operating in a northern environment. However, the beauty, culture, and extraordinary experiences offered by these locations make them sought-after destinations for those willing to embrace the adventure and invest in their exploration of the NWT.

FAQ

1. Why is Yellowknife the most expensive place in NWT?

Yellowknife is the most expensive place in NWT due to its high cost of housing, transportation, and groceries. Despite the high prices, it offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, numerous outdoor activities, and a strong job market in sectors like mining and government.

2. What makes Hay River an attractive place to live or visit?

Hay River, known as the Hub of the North, offers beautiful scenery, fishing opportunities, and a close-knit community. While it is not as expensive as Yellowknife, housing and groceries can still be quite pricey.

3. Why are goods and services more expensive in Inuvik?

Inuvik, being a remote town in NWT located in the Mackenzie River Delta, faces higher prices of goods and services due to its isolation and transportation costs. However, it is renowned for its Midnight Sun Festival and the famous Igloo Church, which attract tourists from all over the world.

4. What are the attractions of Fort Smith despite its relatively high cost of living?

Fort Smith, situated on the Slave River near the Alberta border, offers a tight-knit community, stunning hiking trails, and access to Wood Buffalo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite the higher cost of living, its natural beauty and historic sites make it an appealing place to live or visit.