Everything you need to know about buying property in the Yukon — including the $0 territorial land transfer tax that makes the north more affordable than you think.
| Closing Cost | Yukon | Ontario | BC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Land Transfer Tax | $0 | $6,475 | $8,000 |
| Land Title / Registration Fee | ~$500 | Included | Included |
| Legal Fees | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Total Transfer Costs | ~$2,000 | ~$8,000 | ~$9,500 |
The Yukon real estate market is dominated by Whitehorse, which accounts for roughly 75% of the territory's population and the vast majority of its real estate transactions. The Whitehorse market has seen significant appreciation over the past decade, driven by an influx of remote workers, retirees seeking adventure, and sustained demand from government and healthcare employees. Average detached home prices in Whitehorse now exceed $550,000.
Outside of Whitehorse, communities like Dawson City, Watson Lake, Haines Junction, Faro, and Carmacks offer considerably more affordable entry points into the Yukon housing market. Dawson City, with its historic character and strong tourism economy, has seen rising demand from artists, writers, and those attracted to the region's gold rush heritage. Homes there range from modest older buildings at $200,000 to newer constructions approaching $500,000.
One of the Yukon's strongest selling points for homebuyers is its absence of a territorial land transfer tax. Every other Canadian province that has a major real estate market — Ontario, BC, Quebec, Manitoba — charges some form of land transfer or welcome tax. Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the three territories (Yukon, NWT, Nunavut) do not. This means Yukon buyers save thousands at closing, money that can go directly toward furnishing a new home, paying down mortgage principal, or investing.
The Yukon does charge a land title registration fee, but it is structured as a modest flat-plus-per-thousand-dollar charge. On a $500,000 purchase, the total registration fee typically comes to $400–$600 — a fraction of what LTT would cost in Ontario or BC.
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Claim $100 Bonus →Buying real estate in the Yukon comes with unique considerations that differ from southern Canada. The permafrost zone in northern Yukon affects foundation requirements and can influence property values and insurance costs. In Whitehorse and most southern Yukon communities, permafrost is generally not a concern for residential properties, but it becomes a factor farther north.
Home inspections in the Yukon are critical and should always include a check of the foundation type (slab-on-grade, pilings, or basement), heating systems (many Yukon homes use oil or propane), and the condition of the water supply (well vs. municipal). Whitehorse has municipal water and sewer; smaller communities may rely on wells and septic systems.
Financing a Yukon home is generally straightforward for properties in Whitehorse. For smaller communities, some lenders may require larger down payments or charge higher rates due to limited comparables for appraisal. Working with a mortgage broker familiar with northern lending will help you navigate these nuances.
Whitehorse: The primary market. Strong demand, rising prices. Avg. detached $550,000+. Full services, all major banks present.
Dawson City: Historic city, tourism economy. Homes $200,000–$500,000. Limited banking; CIBC branch available.
Watson Lake: Junction community, service hub. Affordable prices, $200,000–$350,000 range. CIBC branch; online banking essential.
Haines Junction: Gateway to Kluane. Quiet community, $250,000–$450,000. No local branches; all banking done online or in Whitehorse.
Faro & Carmacks: Small resource communities. Very affordable real estate, often under $200,000. Minimal banking infrastructure.