Cost of Living in Canada: How Much Does a Student Spend Per Month? Find Out Now!
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Canada
Cost of Living in Canada: How Much Does a Student Spend Per Month? Find Out Now!
Gabriel Belandria
Many students hesitate to study in this country because the cost of living in Canada can be high. However, affording your trip is not impossible! If you manage your expenses well, you can make your dream of studying in Canada a reality.
While the cost of living in Canada will depend on the city you choose and your lifestyle, you can expect to need approximately 1,700 CAD per month to cover the main living expenses.
But don’t stop at just this number! There are many factors to consider. For example, which city should you live in? How can you save money? In this article, we answer these and other questions! Grab a pen, paper, and calculator, and let’s get started!
Disclaimer: All figures provided are estimates and subject to change.
Initial Cost of Living in Canada
To study and work in Canada, we recommend setting aside 20,635 CAD for one year of studies. This is a requirement for obtaining your student visa.
If you are traveling to the province of Quebec, the government requires you to have 15,508 CAD for a year of studies. Keep in mind that in both cases, tuition fees are not included.
In addition to this initial cost of living in Canada, you must also account for travel-related expenses, which include:
Plane Tickets
Prices vary depending on your country of departure, but we recommend booking your tickets on Tuesdays and using your browser’s incognito mode.
The price varies depending on your program. For example, an English course can cost up to 325 CAD per month.
Accommodation for Your First Few Days
We recommend staying in a hostel until you find something more permanent. Room prices range from 14 to 80 CAD per night.
And how much does it cost to live in Canada once you’ve settled in? In the sections below, we break down the cost of living in Canada in major cities and provide some useful saving tips. Keep reading!
Cost of Living in Canada as an International Student
The cost of living in Canada starts at 1,700 CAD per month. That may seem like a lot, but don’t panic! You can live in Canada and afford your stay without major issues if you secure a student job.
Key Fact
Canada’s unemployment rate has remained in the single digits for over a decade. In fact, in 2023, it closed at 5.8%. Moreover, Canada is a member of the G7, a group of industrialized nations that contribute about one-third of the world’s GDP. This means jobs in Canada are well-paid.
The key is to manage your finances wisely to avoid overspending. When estimating the cost of living in Canada, consider these three factors that influence expenses:
The city and neighborhood you live in.
Your salary while working in Canada.
How well you organize your finances.
In the following sections, we explain each of these factors to give you a clearer idea of the cost of living in Canada. Keep your calculator handy!
1. What Is the Cost of Living in Major Canadian Cities?
When calculating how much it costs to live in Canada, the city you choose plays a significant role. After all, expenses like rent, food, and transportation vary from one city to another.
Even lifestyles differ. Some cities in Canada are fast-paced, while others are much more laid-back. Fortunately, no matter where you move, you can study and work! This way, you can handle the cost of living in Canada without too much trouble.
But which cities are the best? Find out below!
Montreal: Where Diversity and Culture Are Within Reach
Montreal is one of Canada’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities. Its streets are lined with museums, galleries, and theaters, and it hosts amazing festivals every year.
Another advantage of living in Montreal is its high quality of life. As Quebec’s economic hub, jobs are plentiful and well-paid!
But is it expensive to live here? How much do you need per month? Below are estimated monthly costs in Montreal:
Accommodation: 600 to 1,100 CAD.
Food: 400 CAD.
Transportation: 65 CAD.
Utilities: 60 CAD.
Internet: 50 CAD.
Toronto: A Multicultural Canadian City
Toronto is an attractive option for studying in Canada. Its multicultural vibe, museums, forests, lakes, and food scenemake it a fantastic place to live.
Additionally, as Canada’s financial capital, job opportunities are abundant and well-paid. Studying in Toronto opens doors to excellent career prospects.
But how much does it cost to live in Toronto? It’s not cheap, but it’s doable. Here’s a breakdown of estimated expenses:
Accommodation: 900 to 2,400 CAD.
Food: 300 CAD.
Transportation: 130 CAD.
Utilities: 200 CAD.
Internet: 50 to 80 CAD.
Vancouver: the perfect blend of architecture and nature
If you want to live in a cosmopolitan, modern city surrounded by nature, Vancouver is for you! Here, you get the best of both worlds, just like Hannah Montana, because there are both beaches and mountains.
Moreover, the economy is solid and constantly growing! That’s why living in Vancouver is ideal if you’re looking for a high quality of life, well-paid jobs, and opportunities for academic and professional growth.
And how much does it cost to live in Vancouver? The cost of living in this Canadian city is indeed high, but the lifestyle it offers makes up for it. Here are some estimated expenses:
Accommodation: 800 to 1,200 CAD.
Food: 240 to 400 CAD.
Transportation: 103 to 185 CAD.
Utilities: 140 CAD.
Internet: 85 CAD.
2. How much is the salary in Canada?
Although the cost of living in Canada is somewhat high, you can live comfortably even if you only earn minimum wage. But how much are we talking about? Well, it varies by province:
Alberta: 15 CAD per hour.
British Columbia: 17.40 CAD per hour.
Prince Edward Island: 16 CAD per hour.
Manitoba: 15,80 CAD per hour.
New Escocia: 15,20 CAD per hour.
New Brunswick: 15,30 CAD per hour.
Nunavut: 19,00 CAD per hour.
Ontario: 17,20 CAD per hour.
Quebec: 15,75 CAD per hour.
Saskatchewan: 15 CAD per hour.
Newfoundland and Labrador: 15,60 CAD per hour.
Northwest Territories: 16,70 CAD per hour.
Yukon: 17,59 CAD per hour.
This is what you can earn while studying and working, so don’t let anyone pay you less! If anything, make sure it’s more. Of course, that depends on your course, because you cannot work if you’re enrolled in English or French courses.
To work and study in Canada, you must take technical or university programs. This way, you can work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during vacations.
How to reduce the cost of living in Canada?
Now that you know how much it costs to live in Canada, how can you save money? The key is managing your finances wisely and spending as little as possible. In the following sections, we’ll teach you how. Take note!
Phone services
There are several phone carriers in Canada offering monthly plans ranging from 35 to 40 CAD. These plans include unlimited texts and calls, plus 1 GB of data for browsing.
Groceries
Although groceries can be expensive, you can save! When shopping at the supermarket, look for discounted products and buy them at up to 50% off.
Another tip to keep your cost of living in check? Shop at Costco or No Frills, as they offer many deals and sell groceries at lower prices.
For fresh fruits and vegetables, visit farmers’ markets. Since the produce is sold directly by growers, it is not only fresher but also more affordable than in supermarkets.
Transportation
If you want to save as much as possible, it’s advisable to buy a monthly pass for public transportation. Also, take advantage of any available student discounts.
Another option is to walk or cycle. This way, you stay in shape and save the nearly 100 CAD (or more) that a monthly public transportation pass costs.
Other money-saving tips in Canada
We don’t want the cost of living in Canada to give you headaches. That’s why, with insights from our Experience Leaders, we’ve prepared additional tips to help you save as much as possible:
Cook at home. Online, you’ll find healthy, affordable, and delicious recipes so you don’t spend a fortune on restaurants.
Take advantage of Happy Hour! Bars and clubs offer discounted drinks at certain times of the day. Imagine getting a beer for just 4 CAD.
Look for student discounts. At museums, theaters, cinemas, festivals, or bars, you could pay less if you show your student ID.
Buy second-hand items. Not only is this eco-friendly, but it also helps you save money. Check Craigslist or the Let Go app for great finds.
Shop at garage sales. You’d be surprised at the treasures you can find at great prices just by strolling through neighborhood sales.
Study and work in Canada with GrowPro experiences!
We know that studying in Canada isn’t the cheapest option, but think of it as an investment in your future! A Canadian degree can greatly boost your professional profile.
Moreover, with our professional courses, you can study and work simultaneously. This way, you can cover your expenses while specializing in the most in-demand careers in Canada.
If you need more information, just fill out the form below with your details. We’ll get in touch to provide free consultation. See you soon, future grower!
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