The high cost of living in Sept-Îles, Quebec, is a pressing issue that has newcomers rethinking their future on the North Shore. For N.H. and Y.D., originally from West Africa, their move to Sept-Îles in 2022 was driven by the promise of a better life for their family. However, the city's soaring living costs have now become a significant challenge.
Y.D. highlights the financial strain, noting the high prices of groceries, housing, and transportation. The couple's struggle is further exacerbated by the limited availability of daycare spots, forcing Y.D. to work part-time and depriving the household of a full-time second income. This situation is not unique to them; many families in Sept-Îles are grappling with similar challenges.
Sept-Îles has consistently ranked as Quebec's most expensive city to live in over the past decade, according to the Institut de recherche et d’informations socioéconomiques (IRIS). The think tank's study reveals that a two-parent household with two young children would need to earn $88,266 annually to achieve a livable income. This threshold is just slightly lower than Montreal, which tops the list at $88,812.
The high cost of living in Sept-Îles can be attributed to various factors. Paul Lavoie, the general manager of Développement économique Sept-Îles, points to the region's geographical location, the rising oil prices, and the dominance of the mining industry as key contributors. The 'fly-in, fly-out' model, where employers rely on temporary workers, further inflates rental market prices, making it increasingly difficult for locals with average incomes to find affordable housing.
The situation has prompted the establishment of local non-profit organizations like L’Envol, Maison de la Famille, which provides essential support and resources for families in need. Early childhood educator Geneviève Poirier notes a tenfold increase in aid requests since 2021, with over 70% of clients being newcomers. The demand for low-cost drop-in daycare services, prenatal clinics, and community kitchens has surged, highlighting the growing struggle for families in Sept-Îles.
Despite the challenges, N.H. and Y.D. remain determined to stay in Sept-Îles. They credit L’Envol with being a 'game changer' for their family's short-term stability. However, they emphasize the need for long-term solutions, including improved housing and child care options. Lavoie agrees, suggesting that better housing and child care are crucial to preventing more families from leaving.
Y.D. expresses a strong commitment to finding ways to stay in Sept-Îles, emphasizing the sense of belonging and the desire to build a future in the community. The city's unique charm, with its small-town feel and caring residents, has made it an attractive choice for the couple. However, the high cost of living and limited services are significant obstacles that they must overcome to ensure a sustainable future for their family.
