Cost of Living in Canada for Students and Expats: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning to immigrate to Canada? Apart from the tuition of visa fee, are you familiar with what could be the expected average cost of living in Canada?

Renowned for its elevated quality of life, multicultural ambiance, and exceptional educational prospects, Canada, holds undeniable allure for students and expatriates alike.

Nevertheless, prior to embarking on your Canadian adventure, it becomes imperative to grasp the intricacies of the cost of living and diligently budget your finances.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide invaluable insights into the diverse elements shaping the cost of living in Canada, enabling you to prudently plan your economic resources.

Cost of Living in Canada for Immigrants and Students

Canada is at par with fellow developed English countries like the USA, Australia, the UK, etc, and is ranked 25th costliest country to live in the world by the Numbeo Cost of Living Index 2023.

It’s a very well-known fact that Canada is an immigrant-friendly, developed, and amazing country to start or build your career. Given these advantages or benefits, the other side of the coin, that is, the cost-of-living in Canada factor might actually amaze you.

Cost of Living in Canada Compared to India

Canada as a nation is more expensive than 79% of the countries around the globe. The cost of living in Canada compared to India is approximately 210.1% more expensive. Also, the rent in Canada compared to India is on average 500% higher than that in India.

Rents in Canada

• The rental costs in Canada are particularly high in the cities like Toronto and Vancouver (which are also the top two costliest cities in Canada to live in) that are at an average of CAD $3,000 and CAD $3180 respectively.
• The cheapest city, however, for rentals in Canada is St.John’s wherein a 2-bedroom apartment would only cost just around CAD $900.

Average Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students

The cost of living for students is typically determined by their chosen lifestyle. Additionally, opting for either on-campus or off-campus housing will lead to varying accommodation expenses.

The availability of on-campus housing is contingent upon the university of choice, and it's recommended to make a separate application for on-campus accommodation.

The incurred average cost of living in Canada for Indian students is tabulated below

Accommodation Types for International Students

Also Read: Your Ultimate Guide on How to Find Student Accommodation in Canada

Average Cost of Living in Canada for Family

The cost of living in Canada for Indian family or in general can vary based on different factors that include – family size, location, lifestyle, etc. the table below illustrates the average cost of living that could be expected to be incurred living in Canada

Cost of Living For a Family of 2 in Canada

Cost of Living For a Family of 4 in Canada

Also Read: 10 Best Cities in Canada To Live With Family

Top 5 Popular Cities in Canada for Indians

The Canadian nation as a whole is undoubtedly one of the most preferred destinations for individuals from all over the world. Ontario is among the top province choice for both students and expats willing to fly to this nation even though the cost of living in Ontario is 1.19 times more than the Canadian average (the nation as a whole).

Moving further below are the top preferential cities by Indians in Canada

1. Vancouver: In Vancouver, the monthly rent for a furnished 480 sq. ft. apartment is approximately CAD 1,760 in economic areas and CAD 2,360 in upscale neighborhoods. For a larger 900 sq. ft. furnished place in an expensive area, the rent can go up to CAD 3,320, making Vancouver a highly expensive city to live in.

Transportation costs include a monthly ticket for CAD 131, while an 8 km cab ride would amount to CAD 35. An average lunch would cost around CAD 27, and weekly groceries would total about CAD 100.

Utility bills are at least CAD 172, and when factoring in entertainment, internet, and other expenses, the average monthly expenses for one person is about a minimum of CAD 3,000.

2. Toronto: In Toronto, the cost of housing for a furnished 900 sq. ft. accommodation ranges from CAD 2,761 to CAD 3,226, depending on the location and amenities. Other monthly expenses include tenant's insurance (CAD 50), hydro, gas, and electricity (CAD 150), groceries (CAD 100 per week), and transportation (CAD 130).

When factoring in additional expenses like internet, prepaid mobile tariffs, and entertainment, the total cost of living in Canada in Toronto for one person is likely to exceed CAD 4,000.

*It's important to consider personal spending habits when budgeting for the cost of living in Toronto.

3. Oakville: On average, the cost of living in Oakville is around CAD 2,500 per month. For a one-bedroom apartment, prices are approximately CAD 1,423 - CAD 1,340 based on the location.

Essential utilities amount to CAD 121, while internet and related services cost around CAD 57. Public transportation expenses are approximately CAD 110 or more, and weekly food costs account to a minimum of CAD 100. Additional expenses such as shopping, entertainment, and outings, can budget you approximately about a minimum of CAD 200 more.

4. Calgary: Situated in Alberta, Calgary is known for its thriving oil and gas industry. In Calgary, rental costs are relatively affordable, and you can find a furnished 900 sq. ft. apartment for around CAD 1,688 outside the city center.

Utility bills for one person amount to approximately CAD 200. Weekly grocery expenses would be around CAD 80, and when factoring in internet and entertainment, an additional CAD 90 would be needed.

A public transport ticket costs CAD 105. Taking all these expenses into account, the total monthly requirement for one person in Calgary comes to approximately CAD 2,200.

5. Ottawa: In Ottawa, the cost of housing for a furnished 900 sq. ft. accommodation typically ranges from CAD 1,713 to CAD 2,138, varying based on location. Utility bills amount to approximately CAD 196, while internet and phone bills add around CAD 95. Budgeting at least CAD 60 per week for groceries is advisable.

Considering additional expenses like entertainment and dining at mid-range restaurants, the total cost of living in Ottawa for one person would approximately fall between CAD 2,500 - CAD 3,000. One of the important points to note is that individual spending habits and market conditions can have an impact on the overall cost.

*Also Read: Top 15 Multiculturalism Cities in Canada for Immigrants.

Tips to Effectively Manage Your Cost of Living in Canada

Managing the cost of living in Canada can be achieved through various simple strategies and practices. Below mentioned are a few suggestions to help you manage your expenses effectively:

1. Plan a detailed monthly budget to manage expenses and income effectively.
2. Explore affordable housing options like smaller rentals or room-sharing.
3. Opt for public transport or carpooling instead of owning a car.
4. Plan meals, shop with a list, and seek discounts to cut unnecessary grocery expenses.
5. Conserve energy to lower utility costs with mindful usage and efficient appliances.
6. Cook at home for cost-effective and healthier eating.
7. Seek low-cost or free community activities for entertainment and recreation.
8. Utilize government-funded education and healthcare options.
9. Compare prices, buy second-hand, or explore thrift stores for cost-efficient shopping.
10. Secure your financial future with savings, goals, and expert advice.

Also Read: Ultimate Guide on How to Study Abroad on a Budget

Plan, Understand and Optimize Your Cost of Living in Canada

Understanding the cost of living in Canada is crucial for students and expats planning to study or live in the nation. Developing good financial habits and seeking cost-saving opportunities are essential and with careful planning, students and expats can enjoy their time in Canada while maintaining financial stability and maximizing opportunities.

Need help deciding on the best city for you with the necessary information and finances, have a free consultation with a GetGIS immigration expert, who would not just facilitate your eligibility for Canada immigration and visa processing, but would also help you identify the best destination in Canada for you and your family.

Isn’t that amazing? Why delay further, Book your free consultation

Useful Links:

• How To Study in Canada After 12th From India?
• 10 Major Benefits of Working in Canada
• 10 Common Immigration Frauds in Canada & Ways To Prevent it
• Top 15 Reasons Why Students Choose Canada For Study - GetGIS