Cost of Living in Toronto in 2025: Housing Cost, Transportation, and Living Cost

Lakshmi

5 min read

Updated On Jun 24, 2025

Cost of Living in Toronto in 2025: Housing Cost, Transportation, and Living Cost

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Average Cost of Living in Toronto in 2025
Cost of Living in Toronto for International Students in 2025
Top 10 Ways to Budget Your Cost of Living in Toronto in 2025
Navigate the Cost of Living in Toronto with GetGIS

Toronto is one of Canada's most expensive cities to live in, with the average cost of living in Toronto in 2025 monthly ranging between CAD 1,500 and CAD 5,500, excluding rent.

This guide will walk you through the average living expenses in Toronto, from finding an apartment to navigating public transportation and everyday expenses. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just starting your exploration, we'll help you understand the cost of living in Toronto.

Average Cost of Living in Toronto in 2025

The average cost of living in Toronto is between CAD 1,531 - CAD 2500 for a single person and for a family of four, the cost of living can be between CAD 5000 - CAD 6000. Toronto houses some of the world’s best universities. However, it is considered to be the most expensive city, which is in the top 6% in the world.

Alternatively, here are some advantages of residing here that offset the cost of living in Toronto

The median after-tax salary is CAD 3,483, covering living expenses for 1.4 months.
Toronto ranks 36th (TOP 0.4%) globally in the list of best places to live.
It is the 2nd best city to live in Canada and the most livable city in Ontario.
Toronto boasts an estimated population of 2.79 million, making it the largest city in Canada.

Cost of Living in Toronto for International Students in 2025

The average living expenses in Toronto for International students vary from $1,945 to $3,713 per month. Below is the average expenditure of housing accommodation for students who are planning to study in Toronto.

Types of Housing	Cost Per Month (in CAD)
Student Housing (PBSA)	750 – 1,800
Private	2,098 – 2,462
University Hall	1,101 – 1,319

Average Tuition Fees in Toronto in Top 5 Universities in 2025

The average tuition fees in Toronto for international students range from CAD 15,000 - CAD 30,000. The fee for Indian students for a UG course is INR 20 L and for a PG course, it is INR 30 L.

College/University	Average Tuition Fees (CAD)
University of Toronto	30,000 - 60,000
Ryerson University	20,000 - 30,000
York University	20,000 - 38,000
George Brown College	15,000 - 20,000
Seneca College	15,000 - 20,000

Read other best colleges in Toronto in this blog: 15 Best Toronto Colleges & Universities for International Students in 2025

Cost of Living in Toronto: Housing Expenses

The cost of housing in Toronto ranges between CAD 2,526 and CAD 3,570, with prices influenced by the chosen location. The variation in housing expenses underscores the importance of considering different neighborhoods when seeking accommodation in the city.

Accommodation	Cost in CAD
1 bedroom in City Centre	2,526
1 bedroom Outside of City Centre	2,236
3 bedrooms in City Centre	4,369
3 bedrooms Outside of Centre	3,570

Explore: Cost of Living in Canada 2025: For Students & Immigrants

Housing Expenses as per Districts in Toronto in 2025

Below is a breakdown of average living expenses in Toronto for housing in various districts, highlighting the diverse range of costs associated with accommodation across different areas.

District in Toronto	Studio Rent (CAD)	Rent (1-3 Bedrooms in CAD)
Riverdale	1,395	1,850 - 3,950
Kensington	1,500	1,850 - 3,200
Parkdale	1,375	1,644 - 2,900
The Beaches	1,500	1,798 - 4,250
Liberty Village	1,750	2,165 - 4,433
Yorkville	1,800	2,450 - 4,450
Runnymede	–	1,550 - 3,525
East Danforth	1,211	1,450 - 3,400

Cost of Living in Toronto: Transportation

Public transportation is comparatively cheaper than using a taxi. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is renowned as one of the finest transit systems globally. Commuters often use a "PRESTO" card for TTC services. The average cost of a Monthly Transport pass is in the range of $156 - $200

Transportation	Cost in CAD
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)	$3.25 - $3.75
Monthly Pass (Regular Price)	$156 - $200
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)	$4 - $10
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)	$1.75 - $3.00
Taxi 1hour Waiting (Normal Tariff)	$31 - $40
Price of Gasoline	$1

Also Read: Canada Visa Processing Time 2025: For Students, Family and Immigrants

Cost of Living in Toronto: Eating Out

In Toronto, the price of eating out tends to be on the higher side, with grocery expenses varying based on the location of the store. Dining out can also be costly, with an average meal at a mid-range restaurant costing around CAD71 for two people, while more budget-friendly eateries typically offer meals for around CAD10 - CAD15 per person.

Eating Out	Cost (in CAD)
Lunch	16.80
Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2	71.40
Fast food meal,	11
Beer in a Pub, 0.5 L or 16 fl oz	6.53
Cappuccino	4.13
Pepsi / Coke, 0.5 L or 16.9 fl oz	2

Average Living Expenses: Groceries

The expenditure on food and groceries in Toronto is estimated to range from CAD5 to CAD 25. Most housing arrangements do not include a meal plan in the rent, thereby preparing their meals using purchased ingredients or dining out. However, the latter option may not always align with optimal health choices.

Groceries	Cost in CAD
Milk	2.97
Bread	3
Rice	3
Eggs, x12	3.89
Cheese	15.20
Non-Veg	25
Fruits	12.11
Vegetable	9.11
Toiletries	14

Average Living Expenses: Miscellaneous Cost

Toronto, renowned for its elevated cost of living, frequently necessitates households to depend on dual incomes or for students to cut expenditures in a few places to handle expenses. On average, miscellaneous expenditures can fall within the range of CAD52 to CAD200

Miscellaneous	Cost in CAD
Gym Membership, 1 month	52.70
Cinema Ticket, 1 person	13
Grooming	23
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage)	198.78
Mobile Phone (Monthly Plan)	62.94
Internet	74

Also Read: How is Life in Canada for Indian Immigrants in 2025?

Top 10 Ways to Budget Your Cost of Living in Toronto in 2025

Below are some ways to manage your cost of living in Toronto with these top 10 budgeting tips. Learn how to navigate the city's expenses while maintaining financial stability and quality of life.

Housing: Consider shared accommodation or renting a smaller apartment to save on rent. Explore neighborhoods outside the downtown core for more affordable options
Groceries: Plan meals, make a shopping list, and buy in bulk. Opt for local produce and seasonal items to save on grocery bills
Transportation: Use public transit or walk whenever possible. Consider a monthly transit pass instead of daily tickets. If you need a car, carpool or use ride-sharing services
Utilities: Be mindful of energy consumption. Turn off lights, unplug devices, and adjust thermostat settings to save on electricity and heating costs
Entertainment: Look for free or low-cost activities. Toronto offers many parks, festivals, and cultural events that won’t break the bank
Dining Out: Limit eating out and choose budget-friendly restaurants. Explore diverse cuisines in local neighborhoods for affordable options
Healthcare: Take advantage of public healthcare services. Consider health insurance options if you’re not covered under any plan
Cell Phone and Internet: Compare plans and choose cost-effective options. Bundle services for additional savings
Personal Care: Use coupons or loyalty programs for haircuts, spa treatments, and other personal care services
Savings: Set aside a portion of your income (part-time income for students) as savings. Emergency funds and long-term savings are essential for financial stability

Navigate the Cost of Living in Toronto with GetGIS

As one of Canada's most vibrant and dynamic cities, Toronto offers a plethora of opportunities, but also comes with its unique set of challenges when it comes to the cost of living. From housing expenses to transportation costs and miscellaneous expenditures, managing finances in Toronto requires careful planning and budgeting.

Furthermore, for those considering settling or studying in Toronto, then consider leveraging the services of GetGISfor PR, study abroad assistance, and services such as post-landing, SOP, and more.

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Also Read:

Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to travel from Toronto to Montreal?

The cheapest way to travel from Toronto to Montreal is by Bus with a duration of approximately 6 hours, with one-way fares starting at $37 and round-trip fares at $82.

How much salary do you need to live in Toronto?

Based on recent findings from the Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN), individuals residing in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area must earn a minimum of $28.05 per hour. This figure marks an approximate 8% increase from the 2023 rate of $24.15

Which university has the lowest tuition fee in Canada?

Simon Fraser University, University of Guelph, Concordia University, University of Calgary, and University of Saskatchewan are among the institutions known for their lower tuition costs.

What province in Canada has the lowest cost of living?

Living costs across Canada fluctuate depending on the city. Quebec consistently stands out as one of the provinces with the most affordable living expenses, with an approximate monthly living cost of C$1,600.

Is the cost of living in Canada for Indian students very high?

When compared to other renowned study destinations, studying in Canada proves to be more economical. On average, students require approximately C$30,000 to C$50,000 per year, depending on the chosen course and city, to cover tuition expenses.