Business Tax Burdens in Canada’s Major Cities: The 2019 Report Card

Abstract

The best and worst major Canadian cities for business investment as measured by overall tax burden are identified in a new report by authors Adam Found and Peter Tomlinson. Before a business decides to locate or expand in a given jurisdiction, it must consider the tax implications of such an investment. Heavy tax burdens reduce potential returns, driving investment away to other jurisdictions and, with it, the associated economic benefits. Municipal business tax burdens are highest in Montreal, Halifax and St. John’s, while near the group average in Calgary, Charlottetown and Moncton. Vancouver showcases the most competitive municipal business tax environment, followed by Saskatoon, Toronto and Winnipeg.