Is it cheaper for a single person to live without government assistance in Canada than in America, and if so, can the person cross the border without applying for a work permit, rent an apartment and get a job with no hassle?

yes, you can go to canada very easily and work and live there.  They welcome immigrants.  Cheaper no, but they have social programs that guarantees you won't do without.  very little crime.  canadians are happy with their government for the most part.  their government guaranties their freedom and their well being.  oh yeah and the average canadian makes more money than we do by about 15%.  they are not burdened with medical costs and other costs.  we are not on the top anymore.  our personal debt has dragged us down.  more and more people have difficulty getting ahead especially if they have a medical problem. or a bank that has too much power to charge us unnecessary fees.  that does not happen in canada, or england or france or spain, etc.  our capitalistic environment allows for anyone to take advantage of anyone with a idea to take advantage of anyone.  capitalism is good but too much capitalism is down right usually preys on the under priveledged.

Unless you have a work permit, permanent resident status, or you're a Canadian citizen, you can't just drive yourself across the border and get an apartment, or a job.You would be considered an undocumented immigrant, and when caught, you will be placed under arrest, and then deported for your trouble.Likewise, if you don't have similar status in the United States, and then try to find a job over there without authorization, you will also risk arrest and deportation.Don't do that!If you have work skills that Canada wants, it is possible to get a work permit, and even immigrate the right way. Also, if you have a Canadian spouse, and he/she is willing to sponsor you, you can immigrate that way as well. It is certainly possible to find a better quality of life here, but the cost of living is also higher here.