Cost of Living in Canada for International Students [Factors, Tips, and More]

Are you considering studying in Canada? Canada is a popular destination for international students due to its excellent standard of living, diverse culture, and state-of-the-art educational institutions. According to a study, more than five million international students chose to study abroad in Canada in 2023 and were given study permits. Living expenses in Canada are frequently lower than in other English-speaking nations like the USA, UK, or Australia. However, it is important to understand what to expect in terms of living expenses. We have covered the factors, the cost of living in Canada, and more to assist you in estimating your monthly budget through this blog.

Factors Affecting Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

The cost of living in Canada can vary depending on several factors that every international student should consider. Below are some factors that influence the overall cost of living for students in the country.

1. Educational Institution:

Depending on the city where the university is located, there are differences in living expenses. The cost of living is higher in cities like Toronto and Vancouver than it is in Winnipeg or Halifax. Bigger cities often have more expensive housing when compared to smaller ones. 

2. City vs. Suburban Areas:

There is a housing shortage in city centers, particularly in Toronto and Vancouver, and it can be costly to live there. Although living in a suburban area may be less expensive, commuting to the university may take longer. 

3. Accommodation Type:

Students have the option of living on campus or renting a place off campus. While convenient, on-campus accommodation is generally more expensive. Shared apartments are frequently more cost-effective for off-campus living, particularly if they are situated outside of the city center. Sharing apartments with other students is a common way for students to save money.

4. Lifestyle and Spending Habits:

Your monthly expenses will be significantly impacted by your individual spending habits. Frequent travel and dining out will increase your costs of living in Canada. On the other hand, choosing inexpensive leisure activities and cooking at home can help you save money.

5. Transportation Costs:

Compared to having a car, public transit is far less expensive. Public transportation is efficient in the majority of Canadian cities. Students may get affordable monthly transportation passes in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. These passes prove to be an excellent way to save money. 

6. Insurance and Healthcare:

International students must have health insurance in Canada. The price of healthcare varies from province to province. In certain areas, like Alberta, public health insurance plans cover international students. However, in other provinces, you may have to pay for private insurance. 

Note: You can consider getting in touch with our overseas education consultants to make better decisions about your study abroad plans in Canada. 

Overview of Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

Although the quality of life in Canada is excellent, international students should carefully evaluate the cost of living there. Students should plan to spend between CAD 15,000 and CAD 23,000 a year on living expenditures on average. This mostly depends on the city and lifestyle they choose. 

Here’s an overview of the average monthly expenditure in Canada for international students:

Type of Expense	Monthly Estimated Cost Range (CAD)
Rent	1,000 – 2,000
Food and Groceries	300 – 500
Transportation	100 – 150
Utilities and Internet	150 – 200
Miscellaneous	100 – 200
Total	1,650 – 3,050

Also Read: Exams to Study Abroad.

1. Accommodation Costs

For international students residing in Canada, housing has the most considerable cost. The location and type of accommodation have an impact on the price. The cost of accommodation is higher in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. On the other hand, international students typically find more economical options in smaller cities and villages.

Here’s an overview of the accommodation costs in Canada for international students:

Types of Accommodation	Annual Average Costs (CAD)
On-Campus Accommodation	9,084 to 14,400
Off-Campus Shared Accommodation	23,000

2. Food and Grocery Expenses

For international students in Canada, meals make up a sizeable amount of living expenses. For food and groceries, students should set aside between 300 and 500 CAD per month. Eating out may be highly costly where one dinner at a restaurant may set you back up to $100 CAD. 

Here is a list of an estimate of costs to help you manage your food expenses.

Food and Grocery Item	Average Cost (CAD)
Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant)	25
Milk (1 gallon)	11
Toothpaste	3
Potato (1kg)	3
Cheese (1kg)	15
Rice (1kg)	5
1 Dozen Eggs	4
Tomato (1kg)	5
Apple (1kg)	5
Onion (1kg)	3

3. Transportation Costs

Depending on the destination and mode of transportation, the cost of transportation varies significantly in Canada. In urban areas, public transportation is usually the most cost-effective option. Monthly passes for public transportation in Canada typically range from CAD 80 to CAD 130. 

In addition, many Canadian cities offer student-friendly bike-sharing programs and walkways. Depending on individual preferences, a fair estimate for a monthly transportation cost is often between CAD 100 and CAD 200.

4. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses

International students studying in Canada must get health insurance to cover their basic medical services. Depending on the province and the particular insurance plan selected, the cost of health insurance might vary considerably. Students should budget between CAD 600 and CAD 900 annually for their health insurance.

a. Additional Healthcare Expenses

While health insurance covers many medical services, students should also budget for additional healthcare expenses that might not be included in their plans. These expenses can vary, but typical costs include:

• Over-the-Counter Medications: CAD 10 – 30 per month
• Dental Cleaning: CAD 100 – 200
• Eye Exam: CAD 100 – 150
• Prescription Medications: CAD 20 – 50 per month

5. Communication and Internet Charges

Prepaid SIM cards in Canada usually cost about CAD 10 for a basic plan that includes texts, local calls, and a fair amount of data. More extensive plans can cost you anything from CAD 25 to CAD 50 and may include high data allowances or unlimited calls. Also, in Canada, the average monthly cost of internet service is approximately CAD 65. It varies based on preferences and ranges between CAD 20 and CAD 300.

6. Miscellaneous Expenses

These costs can vary depending on your personal life choices and preferences. To help you out, we have mentioned a few basic costs related to leisure and entertainment below:

Type of Expenses	Average Cost
Gym Membership (Monthly)	CAD 50 – 100
Movie Ticket	CAD 13 – 20
Clothing	CAD 100 – 250
Tennis Court Rental (1 hr)	CAD 20 – 40

Also Read: Best Countries to Study Abroad.

City-Wise Cost of Living in Canada for International Students 

The cost of living for international students in Canada can vary significantly from one city to another. We have discussed the cost of living in some of the major cities of Canada in the table below:

City	Estimated Average Monthly Cost (CAD)
Toronto	4,640
Vancouver	4,307
Victoria	3,878
Calgary	3,517
Ottawa	2,958
Montreal	3,102
Whitehorse	2,849
Edmonton	2,787
Kelowna	3,170
Barrie	2,916

Tips to Manage Your Cost of Living in Canada

While studying abroad in Canada can be amazing, it also presents a unique set of financial difficulties. You may make the most of your time here without going over budget if you manage your spending effectively. 

Here are some practical tips to help you manage your cost of living in Canada:

1. Create a Budget: Start by tracking your income and expenses. List all your sources of income, like part-time jobs or family support. Then, outline your monthly expenses, including rent, groceries, and transportation. This will give you a clear picture of where your money goes and help you allocate funds for each category. 
2. Use Public Transit: Public transportation is usually cheaper than owning a car. Introduce yourself to the Canadian transit system. Most major cities in Canada have reliable bus and subway services. Invest in a monthly transit pass to save even more. Many cities offer student discounts, so make sure to carry your student ID. 
3. Cook at Home: Eating out can quickly drain your monthly budget as an international student. By cooking your meals, you save money and also eat healthier. Try to plan your meals for the week, create a shopping list, and stick to it to avoid impulse purchases. 
4. Take Advantage of Student Discounts: Many businesses offer discounts specifically for students. Always ask if a student discount is available, whether you’re shopping or attending events. Many universities also have partnerships with local businesses that provide discounts to students. Keep your student ID handy and take advantage of these offers whenever you can.
5. Shop Wisely: Although grocery shopping might be costly, there are a few strategies to save expenses. For products like rice and detergent that you use regularly, you can purchase them in bulk. When you shop, think about keeping an eye out for deals and taking advantage of loyalty programs. In addition, buying at local markets might help you save money on fresh food compared to big stores. 

Conclusion

The detailed look at the cost of living in Canada for international students in this blog can make a big difference in helping you manage your budget effectively. To manage your finances effectively, consider using campus resources for budgeting advice and discounts. By understanding these costs and planning, you can enjoy your time in Canada without financial stress. Getting a part-time job as an international student can also help you manage your budget effectively. 

Also, PG diploma courses in Canada are gaining a lot of popularity among international students. You can consider these courses for a successful career ahead.

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