High cost of living in Sept-Îles is prompting newcomers to reconsider
Sept-Îles cost of living pressures are squeezing families and newcomers See why rising housing, groceries and daycare costs are testing long-term plans
A family who moved to SeptÎles on Quebec’s North Shore says rising expenses are forcing them to question whether they can stay in the city long term.
The couple, originally from West Africa, arrived in 2022 and built a life around work at the SeptÎles Regional Health Centre. They say the community has been welcoming, but higher costs for groceries, housing and transportation are stretching their budget, especially as they raise two young children.
Local economic development officials say SeptÎles has ranked among Quebec’s most expensive cities for years, with pressures linked to its remote location, the mining economy and rental market conditions. A local family resource centre says demand for help has climbed sharply, and many of its clients are newcomers facing similar struggles, including a shortage of affordable daycare.
The family says they want to remain in SeptÎles if living costs ease and more child care becomes available.