Understanding the Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

Before creating a budget, international students must understand the cost of living in Canada. This guide covers major expenses like rent, food, transportation, and health insurance. We compare costs in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver vs. smaller, more affordable cities. Learn how to manage your budget and make the most of your time studying in Canada.

2/6/20253 min read

Money management tips.

As an international student in Canada, managing your finances is crucial to having a stress-free experience while studying abroad. One of the first steps in financial planning is understanding the cost of living. Canada is known for its high quality of life, but the cost of living can vary greatly depending on which city you choose to live in.

In this guide, we’ll break down the major expenses international students face, including rent, food, transportation, and health insurance. Additionally, we’ll compare living costs in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver with smaller, more affordable cities like Montreal, Calgary, and Halifax

1. Rent & Accommodation

Rent is one of the biggest expenses international students will face in Canada. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,400 a month, depending on the city and type of accommodation. Here’s a breakdown of rent costs in major Canadian cities:

Toronto: A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around $2,200 per month. Shared accommodation can be more affordable, ranging from $900 to $1,200.
Vancouver: Vancouver is known for being one of the most expensive cities in Canada. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is typically $2,400. Shared apartments or on-campus housing can lower your monthly rent.
Montreal: Montreal offers more affordable housing options, with a 1-bedroom apartment costing around $1,500. Shared apartments or on-campus residences can be found at a lower cost.
Calgary & Halifax: These cities are much more affordable, with rent for a 1-bedroom apartment starting from $1,200 to $1,500. Shared accommodation can cost as little as $500 per month.

Tip: Consider living in a shared apartment or on-campus residence to save on rent. Smaller cities offer more affordable options.

2. Food & Groceries

Groceries are another essential expense that international students need to account for. On average, students spend around $200 to $400 per month on food. However, food costs can vary depending on the city and where you shop.

Supermarkets like Walmart, Costco, and local grocery stores typically offer affordable options for students.
Meal prep: Preparing your own meals is a great way to save money. In larger cities, you may also find student discounts at cafes and restaurants.
Meal Plans: If you live in a university dorm or on-campus residence, a meal plan may be available. This can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,000 per semester, depending on the plan.

Tip: Shop at discount grocery stores or buy in bulk to save money. Meal prepping can help you avoid the high cost of eating out.

3. Transportation

Transportation costs can vary depending on the city and whether you rely on public transit, biking, or a personal vehicle.

Public Transit: Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have efficient public transportation systems. A monthly transit pass typically costs between $90 to $150.
Biking: Many Canadian cities are bike-friendly, and you can save money by using a bicycle for your daily commute.
Car Ownership: Owning a car can be expensive, especially in large cities. Consider using ride-sharing apps or renting a car when needed.

Tip: Get a student discount for public transportation to save money. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, biking can be an affordable alternative to public transport.

4. Health Insurance

Health insurance is essential for international students in Canada. Most provinces offer basic health coverage, but it’s important to know what’s covered and what isn’t. Many schools offer health insurance plans to international students, which can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,000 per year.

Provincial Health Coverage: Some provinces, such as Ontario and British Columbia, provide basic health coverage to international students. However, this doesn’t cover all medical expenses, so it’s crucial to have additional insurance.
Private Insurance: Many universities offer private health insurance options that cover everything from doctor visits to dental care.

Tip: Check if your university offers health insurance as part of your tuition fees or find an affordable private health insurance provider.

5. Comparison: Major Cities vs. Smaller Cities

While cities like Toronto and Vancouver offer vibrant student life, they come with a higher price tag. However, smaller cities like Montreal, Calgary, and Halifax offer more affordable living options without compromising on quality of life.

Here’s a quick comparison of costs in both types of cities:

Conclusion: Plan Your Budget Carefully

Understanding the cost of living in Canada is an essential step in planning your study abroad experience. By considering rent, food, transportation, and health insurance, you can create a budget that suits your needs. Remember, living in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver may cost more, but smaller cities can offer a more affordable lifestyle.

Tip: Always compare prices and consider cheaper alternatives such as shared accommodation or student discounts for transportation.