Capital Gains Tax in Nova Scotia (2026)
In Nova Scotia, half of a capital gain is added to your taxable income, so the rate on the gain is half of your combined federal and provincial marginal rate: 11.40% on lower incomes, up to 27.00% on taxable income over $258,482. What you actually pay depends on how much other income you have, because a large gain can push part of itself into higher brackets.
Capital gains rate by income in Nova Scotia
| Taxable income | Rate on the next dollar of income | Rate on a capital gain |
|---|---|---|
| Up to $30,995 | 22.79% | 11.40% |
| $30,995 to $58,523 | 28.95% | 14.48% |
| $58,523 to $61,991 | 35.45% | 17.73% |
| $61,991 to $97,417 | 37.17% | 18.59% |
| $97,417 to $117,045 | 38.00% | 19.00% |
| $117,045 to $157,124 | 43.50% | 21.75% |
| $157,124 to $181,440 | 47.00% | 23.50% |
| $181,440 to $258,482 | 50.00% | 25.00% |
| Over $258,482 | 54.00% | 27.00% |
From the CRA's 2026 federal and Nova Scotia brackets. See all of Nova Scotia's rates, including dividends, on the Nova Scotia tax rates page.
Tax on a capital gain in Nova Scotia: worked examples
The extra federal and Nova Scotia tax from a gain, by the gain and by your other taxable income. The percentage is the effective rate on the whole gain.
| Other taxable income | $10,000 gain | $50,000 gain | $100,000 gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| $60,000 | $1,824 (18.24%) | $9,258 (18.52%) | $18,655 (18.66%) |
| $100,000 | $1,900 (19.00%) | $9,938 (19.88%) | $20,813 (20.81%) |
| $150,000 | $2,175 (21.75%) | $11,501 (23.00%) | $23,807 (23.81%) |
| $250,000 | $2,500 (25.00%) | $13,161 (26.32%) | $26,661 (26.66%) |
Frequently asked questions
What is the capital gains tax rate in Nova Scotia in 2026?
Half of a capital gain is taxable, so the rate on a gain is half of your marginal rate: from 11.40% on lower incomes up to 27.00% on taxable income over $258,482.
How much tax would I pay on a $50,000 capital gain in Nova Scotia?
With $100,000 of other taxable income, a $50,000 gain adds about $9,938 of federal and Nova Scotia tax, an effective rate of 19.88% on the gain. Your own numbers will differ; the calculator below uses them.
Is the capital gains inclusion rate different in Nova Scotia?
No. The 50% inclusion rate is federal and applies in every province. Only the provincial income tax brackets differ, which is why the rate on a gain differs between provinces. The proposed increase to two-thirds was cancelled in March 2025.
Do I pay capital gains tax on my home in Nova Scotia?
Usually not on your principal residence, if you designate it correctly. Rental properties, cottages and second homes are generally taxable, and a gain on shares or funds in a non-registered account is taxable in the year you sell.
Educational estimates, not tax, legal or investment advice. Credits, the alternative minimum tax and the lifetime capital gains exemption are not included. Talk to a licensed Canadian CPA or CFP before acting.
Other provinces
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland & Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nunavut
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon
Related: tax-loss harvesting estimator · tax-loss harvesting guide · superficial loss rule