Cost of Living in Canada for Students: Monthly Expenses Breakdown 

Canada is one of the top destinations for international students. With its world-class education, beautiful landscapes, and diverse culture, it’s easy to see why so many students choose Canada as their study abroad destination. However, understanding the cost of living is a crucial part of planning your studies abroad. It’s important to budget carefully to ensure that you can enjoy your experience without financial stress. 

In this blog, we’ll break down the typical monthly expenses that international students can expect while studying in Canada, helping you plan your budget effectively. Whether you’re considering studying in Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal, understanding the cost of living in Canada is a key factor for making the most of your time there.

1. Accommodation Costs: Where You’ll Stay Matters

When considering studying abroad in Canada, your accommodation is likely to be one of your largest monthly expenses. The type of accommodation you choose will significantly impact your budget. 

• On-Campus Housing: Many universities offer on-campus housing, where you can live in dorms or student apartments. On-campus living typically ranges from CAD 700 to CAD 1,500 per month, depending on the city and the amenities offered. For example, accommodation in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver is usually more expensive compared to smaller towns or universities in cities like Halifax or Saskatoon. 

• Off-Campus Housing: Renting an apartment or sharing a house with other students is another popular option. Rent in Canadian cities varies widely. In Toronto, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,000 per month, while in smaller cities or towns, you can find cheaper options starting at CAD 800 to CAD 1,200 per month. If you share accommodation, you can expect to pay around CAD 500 to CAD 800 per month for a room in a shared house or apartment. 

• Homestay: Some students prefer to live with a Canadian family, which provides both accommodation and meals. Homestay arrangements typically cost between CAD 750 and CAD 1,000 per month. 

Tip: If you’re looking to save money, sharing accommodation with other students or looking for housing in less central areas can reduce costs significantly. 

2. Food and Groceries: Budgeting for Meals

Eating out in Canada can be expensive, but if you plan your meals and cook at home, you can manage your food budget more effectively. 

• Groceries: On average, students spend between CAD 200 and CAD 400 per month on groceries. This will depend on your eating habits and how much you cook at home. Local grocery stores like Walmart, Loblaws, and No Frills offer affordable options for students. Shopping at farmers’ markets for fresh produce can also help save money. 

• Eating Out: If you want to dine out occasionally, expect to pay around CAD 10 to CAD 20 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant. If you prefer fast food or a café, you’ll pay anywhere from CAD 5 to CAD 10 per meal. While eating out is convenient, it’s a good idea to limit how often you do it to save money. 

Tip: Cooking in batches and meal prepping is a great way to save on food costs. Plus, you’ll feel more connected to Canadian culture when you try your hand at cooking local dishes! 

3. Transportation: Getting Around Canada

Getting around in Canada depends largely on where you live. If you’re studying in a major city, public transportation will be your best option. In smaller cities, you might find it more economical to walk or bike around. 

• Public Transit: Most major cities, including Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, have excellent public transportation systems (buses, trains, subways). A monthly public transit pass typically costs around CAD 80 to CAD 150, depending on the city. For example, in Toronto, a monthly TTC pass costs CAD 156, while in Montreal, it costs about CAD 88. 

• Biking and Walking: Many students in cities like Vancouver and Montreal prefer to cycle or walk to class. Both are affordable and healthy options, especially during the warmer months. 

• Car Rentals: If you plan to drive, you’ll need to factor in the costs of gas, insurance, and parking. However, owning a car as an international student can be costly, so many students choose to rent a car only when necessary. 

Tip: Look into student discounts for transit passes, which can reduce your transportation expenses. 

4. Health Insurance: Taking Care of Your Well-being

Health insurance is essential when studying abroad. Canada’s healthcare system provides coverage for residents, but as an international student, you may need to get private health insurance. 

• University Health Insurance Plans: Many Canadian universities offer health insurance plans for international students. The cost is typically around CAD 600 to CAD 900 per year, which translates to roughly CAD 50 to CAD 75 per month. 

• Provincial Health Insurance: Some provinces like British Columbia and Ontario have public health insurance systems, but there’s usually a waiting period for international students. You’ll need to apply for provincial coverage as soon as you arrive. 

• Private Insurance: If you’re not covered under a university plan or provincial insurance, you may want to consider purchasing private health insurance. This can range from CAD 50 to CAD 100 per month, depending on the provider and coverage. 

Tip: Be sure to review your university’s health plan to see if it meets your needs before purchasing additional insurance. 

5. Entertainment and Social Life: Enjoying Your Time in Canada

While studying abroad, you’ll want to explore and enjoy the activities Canada has to offer, from sightseeing to participating in social events. Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend on entertainment: 

• Movies and Shows: Tickets for a movie typically cost around CAD 10 to CAD 15. You might also want to check out discounted days for students or matinee screenings for cheaper options. 

• Socializing: Going out with friends or attending student events might add up. Expect to spend around CAD 10 to CAD 30 for a night out, depending on the venue. 

• Fitness: A monthly gym membership typically costs around CAD 30 to CAD 70. Some universities offer on-campus gyms that might be more affordable for students. 

Tip: Look for student discounts on events, concerts, and memberships. Many cities offer free outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or community events, which are perfect for staying active without spending much money. 

6. Other Monthly Expenses

Apart from the major categories mentioned above, there are a few additional expenses you should account for in your monthly budget: 

• Internet and Mobile Phone: Monthly phone bills (including data) can range from CAD 40 to CAD 80. High-speed internet at home typically costs around CAD 40 to CAD 60. 

• Miscellaneous: This includes costs like laundry, toiletries, entertainment subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify), or any unexpected expenses. It’s a good idea to allocate around CAD 50 to CAD 100 for these costs. 

7. How Much Should You Budget?

Here’s a rough estimate of what your total monthly expenses might look like: 

Your monthly expenses will vary depending on your location, lifestyle, and personal choices, but on average, international students in Canada spend between CAD 1,500 and CAD 2,500 per month. 

Conclusion 

Understanding the cost of living in Canada is essential for students preparing to study abroad. By budgeting wisely, you can manage your expenses, enjoy your time in Canada, and focus on your studies without stressing about money. Make sure to research local costs, explore student discounts, and plan ahead to ensure that you’re financially prepared for life in Canada. 

Studying abroad in Canada is an incredible opportunity, and with careful planning, you can make the most of it while keeping your finances under control.