How much is the cost of living in Canada? If you are thinking about studying in Canada or moving there, understanding the life expenses in Canada is key to planning your budget and lifestyle. From housing and groceries to transportation and healthcare, this blog breaks down what you can expect to spend in different parts of the country. Whether you’re heading to bustling Toronto, scenic Vancouver, or quieter cities like Halifax, this guide offers a clear picture of daily living expenses in Canada for 2025.
What is the Cost of Living in Canada?
Whether you study or try to start your life in a new country, the living expenses is definitely vital. The main aspects of life expenses in Canada include the expenses on accommodation, food and dining, transportation, other utilities (electricity, cooling, water, heating, garbage, Internet) , health care, entertainment. The average cost of living in Canada depends on the specific city, the area of the city, and the life style you choose.
Average Cost of Living in Canada for International Students
The average monthly expenditure in Canada can vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and personal habits. For students especially international students, Canada offers a vibrant cultural experience, but it’s essential to be prepared for the costs associated with studying abroad. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities such as Winnipeg, Halifax, or Moncton are more budget-friendly. By choosing shared housing, using public transit, and taking advantage of student discounts, international students can manage their expenses effectively while enjoying a high quality of life in Canada. There is the table for the percentages of each part of life expenses in Canada for international students.
Detailed Cost of Living in Canada for International Students
On average, students can expect to spend between $2,500 to $3,000 per month on living expenses, covering rent, food, transportation, and other essentials. Understanding these costs will help you plan your finances and make the most of your time in Canada. There is a table to show the detailed monthly costs .
| Cost of Living in Canada (Monthly) | |
|---|---|
| Category | Cost (USD) |
| Accommodation | $1,179–$1,345 |
| Food and Meals | $657–$1,095 |
| Transportation | $76–$114 |
| Entertainment | $219 |
| Utilities | $260 |
| Health Care | $36-146$ |
Life Expenses in Canada for Families
How much does it cost to move to Canada? If you and your family want to find a city in Canada and live there, the major parts of costs in Canada is occupied by the rent or housing charge. Other significant expenses include groceries, childcare or school fees, transportation, utilities, and health insurance if not covered by provincial plans. Groceries usually cost around USD 600 to 900 per month, while childcare can range from USD 600 to 1,500 per child, unless public schooling is used. Transportation costs vary but generally fall between USD 150–300 per month, whether through public transit or personal vehicles. Utilities and internet typically cost around USD 110–220 per month, and families may need private insurance for dental, vision, or prescription coverage not included in public healthcare. However, government support such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and provincial assistance programs help reduce the financial burden, making Canada a welcoming and manageable place for families.
- For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are 3,820.2$ (5,233.4C$), excluding rent.
- For a family of two, the estimated monthly costs are about 1,822.51$ (2,500C$), excluding rent.
- For a single person, the estimated monthly costs are 1,065.2$ (1,459.3C$), excluding rent.
The prices of house vary significantly with the cities. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive, while Winnipeg, Halifax, and Quebec City offer more affordable options. With smart budgeting, Canada offers a safe and high-quality lifestyle for families.
Cost of Living in Canada : Accommodation
Accommodation is the biggest monthly expenses for most students and newcomers in Canada. Rent costs vary by city and housing type. In major cities like Toronto or Vancouver, a one-bedroom apartment can cost between USD 880 and 1,480 per month. In more affordable cities such as Winnipeg or Halifax, shared housing options may start from as low as USD 370–590. Most rentals do not include utilities or internet, which can add an extra USD 75–150 monthly. To save money, many students choose shared apartments or on-campus housing. Careful planning and early searching are essential to finding a good balance between comfort and cost.
Average Rentals in Canada for International Students
Most students choose shared rentals or on-campus housing to reduce costs. Rent often includes utilities in dorms, but off-campus students should budget separately for internet, electricity, and heating. Early planning and comparing different areas can help find more affordable options. This is a table for the rentals of different room types and locations in Canada.
| Monthly Rentals for International Students (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Accommodation Type | Average Cost |
| 1B in City Centre | $1,345.71 |
| 1B outside the City Centre | $1,180.19 |
| 3B in City Centre | $2,131.87 |
| 3B outside the City Centre | $1,850.30 |
| On-Campus (Annually) | $5,840–$7,300 |
| Off-Campus (Shared Accommodation) | $292–$511 |
Average Cost of a House in Canada for Families
The average cost of a house in Canada is important to know for the family which wants to buy a house there. As of 2025, the average cost of buying a house in Canada is around $520,000 USD (approximately 700,000 CAD), though prices vary greatly by region. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are among the most expensive, with average home prices often exceeding $800,000–1,000,000 USD, while smaller cities like Regina, Moncton, or Winnipeg offer more affordable options, ranging between $250,000–400,000 USD. For families considering buying a home, location is key, and choosing the right city can make a significant difference in affordability and quality of life. The real estate prices in Canada are as follows:
- Price per square meter to buy apartment in city centre: 6,444.32$ (8,660.92 C$)
- Price per square meter to buy apartment outside of centre: 4,585.83$ (6,264.92 C$)
Cost of Living in Canada: Transportation Expenses
Transportation is a significant part of living costs in Canada, with options varying depending on the city. On average, students can expect to spend between USD 60 – 110 per month on public transit. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have well-connected and reliable public transit systems, offering monthly passes that typically cost around USD 70 – 130. Many universities also offer discounted student transit passes, making it more affordable. While taxis can be costly, Uber and Lyft are widely available in Canadian cities. A typical short ride might cost around USD 10 – 20, though frequent use can quickly add up. Owning a car in Canada is more expensive, with costs ranging from USD 300 – 500/month for insurance, gas, and maintenance. However, this is often unnecessary for students living in urban areas with good public transport.
The transportation expenses in Canada are as follows:
| Transportation Expenses in Canada (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Category | Cost |
| One-way Ticket(Local Transport) | $2.56 |
| Monthly Pass | $74.89 |
| Taxi Start | $3.43 |
| Taxi 1km | $1.59 |
| Taxi 1hour Waiting | $26.92 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | $1.15 |
Cost of Living in Canada: Food Expenses
Food expenses in Canada can vary based on your lifestyle, location, and shopping habits. On average, students spend between USD 200 and 400 per month on groceries and dining out. The cost of food in Canada can be divided into two parts: Meals outside and cooking home with groceries from the market. Shopping at budget-friendly stores like Walmart, No Frills, or Costco can help you save. A typical monthly grocery bill for one person is about USD 150 to 250, depending on what you buy. If you dine at inexpensive restaurants or opt for takeout, expect to spend about USD 10 to 20 per meal. On average, eating out once or twice a week can add an additional USD 100 to 150 to your monthly food expenses.
Prices of Meals
The cost of meals in different kinds are as follows:
| Meal Prices in Canada (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Category | Cost |
| Inexpensive Restaurant | $18.25 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-Range Restaurant | $73.00 |
| McDonalds | $10.95 |
| Beer | $5.84 |
| Cappuccino | $2.11 |
| Coke/Pepsi | $1.15 |
| Water | $1.70 |
Prices of Groceries
The cost of groceries of the frequently used kinds such as eggs, milk, and cheese are as follows:
| Groceries Prices in Canada (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Category | Cost |
| Milk(1 liter) | $2.25 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | $2.71 |
| Rice (1kg) | $3.67 |
| Eggs (12) | $3.53 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | $11.44 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | $12.22 |
| Beef Round (1kg) | $15.08 |
| Apples(1kg) | $4.19 |
| Banana(1kg) | $1.45 |
| Tomato(1kg) | $4.12 |
| Potato(1kg) | $2.69 |
Cost of Living in Canada: Health Care Expenses
When you consider the cost of living in Canada, health care expense is also an unavoidable factor. Healthcare in Canada is publicly funded, meaning most medical services are covered through taxes and provided at no direct cost to residents. Each province and territory manages its own health insurance plan, which typically includes doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. However, services like dental care, prescription drugs, and vision care may not be fully covered and often require private insurance or out-of-pocket payment.
International students can obtain free ot premium provincial health coverage in some provinces through application to the relevant provinces. The average annual premium for health insurance ranges from 365 USD to 511 USD, according to the Canada Insurance Plan. International students often select well-known providers such as Alliance Global, Sun Life, Green Shield, and Manulife Financial. If the health insurance is not offered, students must obtain private health insurance. There are several private health insurance policies and costs.
- Imed: USD 164.25 for 3 months
- BC MSP Program: USD 54.20 for 1 month
- AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan: USD 128.79 for 8 months
Cost of Living in Canada: Entertainment Expenses
In addition to studying life, there are many other experiences in Canada. For example, you can choose outdoor activities, cultural events, or the overall Canadian social scene show. These are affordable in the leisure time not a luxury.
| Cost of Entertainment in Canada | |
|---|---|
| Activity | Average Cost (USD) |
| Movie Tickets | $8.76-$14.60 |
| Concerts and live Performances | $21.90-$109.50 |
| Outdoor Activities (e.g., hiking, skiing) | $0-$73 |
| Cultural Events and Festivals | $0-$36.5 |
| Museum or Art Gallery Admission | $7.30-$21.90 |
| Theme Parks or Amusement Parks | $29.60-$59.20 |
| Sport Events | $22.2-$148 |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $42.91 |
Cost of Living in Canada: Education Expenses
For students who are about to study here, you must learn about the tuition fees in Canada. Education costs can vary depending on the program, institution, and whether you’re an international or domestic student. In addition to tuition, students should budget for textbooks, materials, and additional academic fees, which can total around USD 300 – 600 per year.
Overall, while education in Canada can be expensive, it remains an attractive choice due to its high quality and the possibility of part-time work opportunities to support living expenses.
Average Tuition Fees for Undergraduate Courses in Canada
There are some frequent choices for undergraduate students.
| Tuition Fees for Undergraduate Courses in Canada (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Course | Tuition Fees |
| Business | $40,800 |
| Computers and IT | $40,150 |
| Engineering and Technology | $40,150 |
| Social and Natural Sciences | $3,8690-$40,800 |
Average Tuition Fees for Postgraduate Courses in Canada
There are some frequent choices for postdergraduate students.
| Tuition Fees for Postgraduate Courses in Canada (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Course | Tuition Fees |
| Business | $38,431 |
| Computers and IT | $38,325 |
| Engineering and Technology | $40,150 |
| Social and Natural Sciences | $27,010-$42,539 |
Popular Universities in Canada: Average Tuition Fees
There are some popular universities for students who want to study in Canada.
| Popular Universities in Canada (USD) | |
|---|---|
| University | Tuition Fees |
| University of Toronto | $4,453-$49,224 per year |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | $8,423 per annum |
| Humber College | $21,535 per year |
| University of Regina | $14,836 per year |
| Royal Roads University | $20,075 per year |
| Thompson River University | $26,024.50 per year |
| York University | $5,224-$28,342 per year |
Living Expenses in Canada: Categorised by City
In different cities, the living expenses is quite different. For example, in Canada, the cost of living in Ottawa is 12.4% lower than that in Toronto.
Living Cost in Canada: Expensive Cities
There are five cities that cost the highest in Canada.
| Monthly Living Cost in Canada (per person） | ||
|---|---|---|
| City | Average Cost | Rent |
| Surrey | $1,200 | $1,368.68 -$1,645.68 |
| Calgary | $1,161 | $ 1,129.02-$1,374.66 |
| Victoria | $1,134 | $1,388.67-$1,593.76 |
| Toronto | $1,132 | $1,541.64-$1,802.93 |
| Vancouver | $1,070 | $1,597.81-$1,978.91 |
Living Cost in Canada: Affordable Cities
There are five affordable cities in Canada.
| Monthly Living Cost in Canada (per person） | ||
|---|---|---|
| City | Average Cost | Rent |
| Ottawa | $1,079 | $1,259.86-$1,478.90 |
| Winnipeg | $1,057 | $952.67-$1,007.13 |
| Montreal | $1,007 | $966.59-$1,219.02 |
| London | $977 | $1,272.95-$1,452.37 |
| Quebec City | $964 | $828.51-$914.34 |
Tips to Save Life Expenses in Canada for Students
Living as a student in Canada can be an exciting yet financially challenging experience. With tuition fees, rent, and daily expenses to manage, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing your quality of life.
- Affordable Housing: Opt for shared accommodations or on-campus housing.
- Public Transport: Use student transit passes or cycle to save on transportation.
- Smart Shopping: Buy groceries in bulk, plan meals, and look for student discounts.
- Limit Eating Out: Cook at home and pack lunch to save money.
- Student Discounts: Use ISIC cards and take advantage of student deals on services and entertainment.
- Free Entertainment: Attend free campus events and explore nature.
- Apply for Scholarships: Seek scholarships and bursaries to reduce tuition and living costs.
Comparison in Housing Expenses between Canada and Other Countries
Is the cost of accommodation high in Canada? Which is more affordable between Canada and USA? The rent Prices in Canada are 21.9% lower than in United States; The rent Prices in United Kingdom are 2.3% higher than in Canada; The rent Prices in Australia are 0.2% higher than in Canada.
| Cost of Accommodation for Students Comparison | |
|---|---|
| Country | Accommodation Cost (USD) |
| Canada | On-Campus: $5,688 to $7,109 annually Shared Off-Campus: $285 to $500 monthly |
| USA | On-Campus: $8,731 to $9,890 annually Shared Off-Campus: $401.06 monthly |
| UK | On-Campus: $493 to $739 monthly Off-Campus: $743 to $2,478 monthly |
| Australia | On-Campus: $65.73 to $167.29 monthly Off-Campus: $54.00 to $263.49 monthly |
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Conclusion
The cost of living in Canada in 2025 remains manageable for most students and newcomers with proper planning and budgeting. While expenses can vary significantly by city, shared housing, student discounts, and part-time work opportunities make it possible to live comfortably. Whether you choose a big city like Toronto or a more affordable location like Winnipeg, understanding your monthly expenses will help you make smart financial decisions and enjoy your time in Canada.
FAQ
What is the cost of living in Canada per month?
The average monthly cost of living in Canada for a student typically ranges from $2,500 to $3,000, depending on the city and lifestyle. It includes the rent, food, transport, utilities, health care and entertainment.
Is it expensive to live in Canada for international students?
Living in Canada can feel moderately expensive for international students. However, it is often more affordable than studying in the US, UK, or Australia. With careful planning, part-time work, and student support, many international students manage comfortably. Plus, the quality of life and education make it a good investment.
Is it cheaper to live in the US or Canada?
The cost of living in Canada is cheaper than in US.
- Cost of Living in Canada is 6.3% lower than in United States (excluding rent)
- Cost of Living Including Rent in Canada is 11.4% lower than in United States
- Rent Prices in Canada are 22.0% lower than in United States
- Restaurant Prices in Canada are 10.0% lower than in United States
- Groceries Prices in Canada are 4.2% lower than in United States
- Local Purchasing Power in Canada is 24.6% lower than in United States
Is it cheaper to live in the UK or Canada?
The cost of living in Canada is cheaper than in UK.
- Cost of Living in United Kingdom is 4.5% higher than in Canada (excluding rent)
- Cost of Living Including Rent in United Kingdom is 3.9% higher than in Canada
- Rent Prices in United Kingdom are 2.2% higher than in Canada
- Restaurant Prices in United Kingdom are 12.1% higher than in Canada
- Groceries Prices in United Kingdom are 13.4% lower than in Canada
- Local Purchasing Power in United Kingdom is 5.8% higher than in Canada
What are the cheapest places to live in Canada?
For students looking to save on housing and daily expenses, Winnipeg, Sherbrooke, and Moncton are among the most affordable cities in Canada. There are several other cities: Trois-Rivières, Quebec; Saint John, New Brunswick; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Is it expensive to live in Canada?
The estimated monthly costs of living in Canada for a single person are 1,064.0$ (1,459.3C$), excluding rent. Canada is not the cheapest country to live in, but it is more affordable than the US or UK in many cases, especially for healthcare and basic needs. With budgeting, student discounts, and part-time work, it is manageable for most international students.
How much is rent in Canada in US dollars?
The average rent in Canada are:
- Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre: 1,344.62 $
- Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre: 1,178.46 $
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre: 2,128.92 $
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre: 1,846.21 $
How much money do I need to live comfortably in Canada?
To live comfortably in Canada as an international student, you’ll typically need around USD 900 to 1,500 per month. USD 1,200 to1,500 per month is a safe and realistic budget to live comfortably in most Canadian cities (excluding luxury lifestyle). In cheaper cities (Winnipeg, Sherbrooke) is closer to USD 900-1,100; In big cities (Toronto, Vancouver) is expect USD 1,400-1,800. Having around USD 15,000-18,000 per year (excluding tuition) should allow for a comfortable student life in Canada.
