City Profile
Amherst, Nova Scotia
Canada · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Amherst is a town in northwestern Nova Scotia, Canada, strategically located at the northeast end of the Cumberland Basin, an arm of the Bay of Fundy. Situated near the New Brunswick border, it serves as a regional hub for Cumberland County. The town was initially settled in 1764 by immigrants from Yorkshire, later joined by United Empire Loyalists, and has grown from its early milling roots. Amherst is currently experiencing growth, with a focus on economic prosperity and fostering a vibrant community, as outlined in its 2024–2028 Strategic Plan. Its geographic position makes it a gateway between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, attracting residents seeking a blend of rural charm and access to larger centers.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Amherst is notably more affordable than the national average, estimated to be 6% lower than the Canadian national average as of 2025. Housing costs are a significant factor in this affordability, with Amherst housing being 37% lower than the national average. While groceries and transportation contribute to monthly expenses, the overall lower housing costs help to keep the cost of living manageable for residents. The average monthly cost of rental housing in Amherst was approximately $1,804 CAD in April 2026, which translates to about $1,290 USD.
Income
Salary Insights
Amherst's economy is driven by several key sectors, with sales and service, business, finance and administration, and trades and transport employing the largest portions of the working population. The average yearly salary in Amherst was around $40,640 CAD (approximately $29,060 USD) as of May 2026. The town has been actively working on economic development, including an updated Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use Bylaw to support housing development and attract new residents and businesses. While specific job growth rates for Amherst are not readily available, the provincial unemployment rate for Nova Scotia in 2024 was 6.5%, indicating a relatively stable, though not booming, job market.
The average salary in Amherst is $29,060 per year. You would need approximately $40,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Amherst is largely car-dependent, with most errands requiring a personal vehicle. While some areas, like Beacon Street, are considered very walkable with a Walk Score of 72, other parts of the town are highly car-dependent. Public transit usage is very low, with only about 0.4% of commuters utilizing it. The town is actively exploring the feasibility of introducing a bus service to address transportation challenges and provide alternative modes of travel for its population. The average commute time for residents is relatively short, with over two-thirds of commuters spending less than 15 minutes traveling to work.
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