Years and years ago, both Robin and I had iPhone5s on Bell Canada. We had an ancient grandfathered deal of 6Mb/mo for $65 total. But the phones were old and it was time to upgrade. Unlike previous upgrades, they would not let us keep the 6Gb deal. So we said, no thanks. I went with an employee perks package with Telus Mobility. For Robin's phone, it was $56.50/month (total) for 6Gb data and so many calling minutes. I paid $800 up front and some extra money per month for 2 years for the phone. They only allowed 1 at that package price. I got a package for slightly more ($67.80 total) but the phone was only $300. I only get 3Gb data per month but unlimited calling and Canadian long distance. Still pretty good for Canada. Both of these phones were our 6Ss. This year, when it was time to upgrade me, rather than lose the deal, I bought my iPhones for me and my wife outright (11 for me, SE for my wife). I worked out what it would cost and it really isn't any more expensive .... it;s just a matter of when you part with your money.
Years ago we got our son a cell phone. We went with a cheap carrier (Wind Mobile now Freedom Mobile). Coverage sucked but price was great. $50/month for unlimited data (throttled after 10Gb) and free roaming in the USA. We upgraded his phone several years ago to some LG android phone and wound up paying an upgrade fee until 2 months ago. When I upgraded mine and my wife's phone I also upgraded him (he was having phone issues) to an iPhone SE too. Just swapped the sim card (apparently his android and iPhone used the same sim card) . We couldn't do anything to the plan since they are trying to get rid of it. They have more expensive plans or not as inclusive plans now. So also bought his phone outright. It is good we are all on the same eco-system as we can share calendars and such now. My son's is also $56.50/mo with taxes and fees.
All these rates are pretty good for Canada. Always thought they were pricey compared to what others are paying in the States. My sister-in-law and mother-in-laws have better deals but not sure what is included.