Overview
Canada remains one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education and multicultural experiences. However, the cost of living varies widely depending on the city. Factors such as housing, food, transport, and healthcare can significantly impact your budget. Below is a breakdown of the average monthly living expenses in major Canadian cities.
Average Monthly Expenses by City (2025)
| City | Accommodation (Shared) | Food & Groceries | Transport | Total (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto, Ontario | CAD 1,200 – 1,800 | CAD 400 – 600 | CAD 160 | ≈ CAD 1,800 – 2,500 |
| Vancouver, British Columbia | CAD 1,100 – 1,700 | CAD 400 – 550 | CAD 120 | ≈ CAD 1,700 – 2,400 |
| Montreal, Quebec | CAD 800 – 1,200 | CAD 350 – 500 | CAD 100 | ≈ CAD 1,300 – 1,900 |
| Calgary, Alberta | CAD 900 – 1,300 | CAD 350 – 500 | CAD 110 | ≈ CAD 1,400 – 2,000 |
| Ottawa, Ontario | CAD 900 – 1,400 | CAD 350 – 500 | CAD 120 | ≈ CAD 1,400 – 2,000 |
Breakdown of Common Expenses
- Accommodation: The biggest expense. Shared rooms or student housing are cheaper. Private apartments are costly in Toronto and Vancouver.
- Food & Groceries: Cooking at home saves money compared to eating out regularly. Expect around CAD 400–600 monthly.
- Transportation: Monthly passes cost CAD 100–160, depending on the city. Some universities offer student discounts.
- Health Insurance: International students must have health coverage—often CAD 70–100 per month if not included in tuition.
- Utilities & Internet: Around CAD 150–250 combined per month for shared apartments.
Tips to Reduce Living Costs
- Consider on-campus housing or homestays to save on rent.
- Use student discounts on public transport and groceries.
- Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) to support your expenses.
- Cook in bulk and share meals with friends to cut food costs.
- Opt for smaller cities like Halifax or Winnipeg for lower rent.
Final Thoughts
While studying in Canada can be expensive, planning your budget and choosing your city wisely can make your experience affordable and enjoyable. Cities like Montreal and Calgary offer a great balance between affordability and quality of life, while Toronto and Vancouver provide global exposure at a higher cost.
