Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students — and for good reason. With world-class universities, multicultural cities and welcoming immigration policies, Canada continues to attract thousands of students globally.
But while tuition may be covered by a scholarship or part-time work, one of the most important things to plan for is your cost of living.
This guide breaks down the average cost of living for international students in Canada in 2025, including accommodation, feeding, transportation, health insurance, and other essential expenses — to help you budget smartly and prepare ahead.
Is Canada Expensive for International Students?
Yes and no. Compared to countries like the U.S. or U.K., Canada offers more affordable education, but costs can vary greatly depending on the city and lifestyle.
Urban areas like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are more expensive than smaller towns or provinces like Manitoba, Newfoundland, or Saskatchewan.
Average Monthly Cost Breakdown (in CAD)
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Rent) | $600 – $1,200 | Shared apartment or student residence |
| Food & Groceries | $250 – $400 | Eating at home is cheaper than dining out |
| Transportation | $80 – $120 | Student discounts apply in most cities |
| Utilities & Internet | $100 – $180 | Heat, electricity, Wi-Fi, water |
| Mobile Phone Plan | $30 – $50 | Varies by provider & data package |
| Health Insurance | $60 – $90 | Mandatory; covered in some provinces |
| Personal Expenses | $100 – $200 | Entertainment, clothing, essentials |
| Total (Est. Monthly) | $1,220 – $2,240 | Depends on city and lifestyle |
1. Accommodation
Accommodation is the biggest monthly expense.
Options:
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On-campus dormitory: $600 – $1,000/month
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Shared apartment (off-campus): $700 – $1,200/month
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Homestay: $750 – $1,100/month (includes meals)
Tips:
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Most universities offer student housing.
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Consider living in suburbs and using transit to save costs.
2. Food and Groceries
On average, international students spend $250 to $400/month on food.
Tips to Save:
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Shop at affordable grocery stores like No Frills, FreshCo, or Walmart.
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Cook at home instead of eating out frequently.
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Buy in bulk and share meals with roommates.
3. Transportation
Canada has reliable public transportation in most cities.
Monthly Transit Pass (with student discount):
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Toronto (TTC): ~$128
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Vancouver (U-Pass): ~$45
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Montreal (OPUS): ~$59
Some universities include a U-Pass in your student fees, giving unlimited transit access.
4. Utilities and Internet
Utilities may or may not be included in your rent.
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Electricity/Water/Heating: $50 – $100
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Internet: $40 – $80/month (shared with roommates)
5. Phone & Internet
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Budget prepaid SIM plans: $30/month
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Unlimited calls + 5GB data: ~$45/month
Providers: Fido, Koodo, Virgin, Freedom Mobile, etc.
6. Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for international students.
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British Columbia (BC): Covered by MSP after 3 months (~$75/month)
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Ontario: Most universities provide UHIP (~$63/month)
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Quebec & Alberta: Often free or partly subsidized
✅ Check with your university for exact details.
7. Miscellaneous & Personal Expenses
This includes:
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Clothing
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Toiletries
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Gym membership
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Haircuts
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Occasional eating out
Average: $100 – $200/month
Estimated Annual Living Cost (12 Months)
| Expense | Yearly Estimate (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent | $8,000 – $14,000 |
| Food | $3,000 – $4,800 |
| Transportation | $800 – $1,200 |
| Health Insurance | $700 – $1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Total | $13,700 – $23,000/year |
Additional Tips to Reduce Living Costs
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Look for part-time jobs on or near campus (students are allowed up to 20 hrs/week).
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Apply for on-campus scholarships or bursaries that cover living expenses.
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Use student discounts everywhere — from public transit to restaurants.
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Rent textbooks instead of buying new ones.
✅ Final Thoughts
While living in Canada comes with its costs, planning ahead makes a big difference. By budgeting smartly, living modestly, and seeking opportunities like scholarships, student discounts, and part-time jobs, you can afford to thrive academically and socially in Canada.