Budget

2026 Budget

The City’s annual budget shapes and directs how we pay for the programs, services and infrastructure that make your life easier, more convenient, safe, and accessible. It also ensures we invest for the future, so we have sufficient funding for asset replacement and infrastructure without overspending.

The budget sets the direction for the work to be completed over the upcoming year.

The approved 2026 Budget reflects a careful balance between community priorities and fiscal responsibility as many face challenging economic times. The Budget maintains core services while investing in strategic initiatives that support growth and sustainability. Key areas of focus include renewing critical infrastructure such as roads and bridges, opening the new multi-purpose recreation complex, preserving cultural and heritage assets, fire services, and maintaining city infrastructure through an infrastructure renewal levy.

The 2026 Budget was developed under the Strong Mayor legislation which set out clear timelines and opportunities for the public and Council to provide input.

On December 2, 2025 Council adopted the 2026 Budget.

Read the full release

Read the approved 2026 Budget

For the average home in Cambridge, the rate increases for the 2026 budget are: 

  • City Services: 1.44 per cent or $25 annually
  • Infrastructure Levy: 1.00 per cent or $17 annually

This totals 2.44 per cent, or an average increase of $42 per household. 

Chart showing the increases per average household as listed above.
Breakdown of Operating Budget

 

Here's how the budget breaks down:

 

Breakdown of how your annual household tax is used. 26% to fire services, 17% to Parks, Recreation and Culture, 14% Capital Funding, 10% Governance and Leadership, 5% Roads and Winter Maintenance, 8% Public Library, 3% Building and Bylaw, 7% Asset Management, 2% Planning, Zoning and Economic Development, 2% Transportation, 1% External funding
Illustration of how your annual household tax bill is used.

 

Cambridge residents will have the opportunity to have their voices heard on the proposed budget by either:

For previous budget documents please email cfo@cambridge.ca.