USA vs Canada: A Comprehensive Comparative Exploration in 2025
Updated On
-
Copy link
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Table of Contents
- USA vs Canada
- Benefits of Living in Canada vs USA for Indian Immigrants in 2025
- Canada vs USA For International Students
- Canada vs USA Eligibility Requirements for Universities in 2025
- Top Universities and Programs: Canada vs USA in 2025
- Canada vs the USA: Cost of Living for International Students in 2025
- Canada vs USA: Post-Study Work Permit for International Students
- Canada vs USA for Working Professionals
- Canada vs USA Immigration Pathways for Working Professionals
- Canada vs USA Eligibility Requirements for Working Professionals
- Average Salary in Canada Vs USA: Earning Potential in 2025
- Canada vs USA Tax System in 2025
- Canada vs. USA: Benefits for Indian Professionals in 2025
- Canada vs USA Healthcare System in 2025
- USA vs Canada - Which Is Your Next Immigration Destination for 2025?
USA vs Canada
Canada and the United States are two of the most popular destinations for international students and expats. Both countries offer excellent educational opportunities, job prospects, and a high standard of living.
However, some differences between the two countries may make one more attractive than the other.
Before we move on to the detailed comparison between Canada and the USA, let us first look into the basic details of either nation.
Benefits of Living in Canada vs USA for Indian Immigrants in 2025
Now that you are equipped with the basic details of these English countries, moving further let us delve into Why Canada is the Best Country to Live in The World vs the USA for Indian families.
Canada
- Canada is known for its multiculturalism, safety, and quality of life?
- It offers accessible healthcare, a strong social support system, and diverse recreational activities.
- Additionally, Canada provides a welcoming environment for immigrants and has a reputation for inclusivity.
Check out: Multiculturalism in Canada and How is Life in Canada for Indian Immigrants
USA
- The USA offers a dynamic lifestyle, diverse cultural experiences, and a wide range of entertainment options.
- It has vibrant cities and opportunities for career growth.
- The healthcare and the cost of living in the USA, however, can be termed higher compared to Canada.
Canada vs USA For International Students
Now that you are well equipped with the general information along with individual benefits that either of the English nations - Canada and the USA have to offer, let us delve into understanding the disparities between them for international students.
Canada and the USA are popular destinations for international students seeking high-quality education and diverse cultural experiences. Choosing between the two often depends on individual preferences, financial considerations, and academic goals.
Canada vs USA Eligibility Requirements for Universities in 2025
The first thing to focus on when aiming for admission is to check the eligibility requirements in Universities and institutions. The admission requirements for Canada vs the USA for Indian students are as follows:
|
Factor |
Minimum Eligibility Requirements to Canadian Universities (2025) |
Minimum Eligibility Requirements to USA Universities (2025) |
|
Education Qualification |
High School Diploma or equivalent; specific program prerequisites |
High School Diploma or equivalent; specific program prerequisites |
|
English Language Proficiency |
IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (90+), Duolingo (120+), specific program requirements |
TOEFL (100+), IELTS (7.0+), Duolingo (125+), specific program requirements |
|
Educational Qualifications |
Verified transcripts, diplomas, certificates |
Verified transcripts, diplomas, certificates |
|
Statement of Purpose |
Required: Focus on academic and career goals |
Required: focus on academic and career goals |
|
Recommendation Letters |
2-3 letters, emphasizing academic and character strengths |
2-3 letters, emphasizing academic and character strengths |
|
Exam Scores Accepted |
GRE/GMAT (if required), specific program entrance exams |
GRE/GMAT/SAT/ACT (if required), specific program entrance exams |
|
Visa |
Study Permit required; proof of acceptance and financial support |
F-1 Visa required; I-20 form, proof of financial support |
Top Universities and Programs: Canada vs USA in 2025
The simple yet unique difference in the Canada vs USA education system is that Canadian education institutions, along with offering diverse programs, emphasize more on practical learning approaches.
The USA's education structure is renowned for its academic reputation and research-intensive programs. Further below is the list of top universities in Canada and the USA, along with the QS World Ranking 2025.
|
Q.S. World University Ranking (2025) |
University Name |
|
25 |
University of Toronto |
|
29 |
McGill University |
|
38 |
University of British Columbia |
|
50 |
Western University |
|
96 |
University of Alberta |
|
115 |
University of Waterloo |
|
159 |
Université de Montréal |
|
176 |
McMaster University |
|
189 |
University of Ottawa |
|
193 |
Queen's University |
|
198 |
University of Calgary |
|
275 |
Dalhousie University |
|
319 |
Simon Fraser University |
|
340 |
University of Saskatchewan |
|
349 |
University of Victoria |
Popular Programs in Canada
|
Computer Science and IT |
Media and Journalism |
Applied Sciences |
|
Engineering |
Medical |
Hospitality and Tourism |
While there are only 3 Canadian universities in the top 50 universities of QS World Ranking, USA hosts 10 best universities in the top 25. Here is the list of top universities in the USA as per the QS World Ranking 2023.
|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
1 |
|
Stanford University |
3 |
|
Harvard University |
5 |
|
California Institute of Technology |
6 |
|
University of Chicago |
10 |
|
University of Pennsylvania |
13 |
|
Princeton University |
16 |
|
Yale University |
18 |
|
Cornell University |
20 |
|
Columbia University |
22 |
Popular Programs in the USA
|
Engineering |
Computer Science |
Business Management |
Data Science |
|
Medicine |
Finance |
Biotechnology |
Electrical and Computer Engineering |
Canada vs the USA: Cost of Living for International Students in 2025
The average cost of living in Canada for international students per month is approximately CAD 1200 - CAD 2600, including all expenses. The cost of living in the USA for international students per month is approximately USD 1,750 - USD 3,500
|
Factor |
Average Cost (Monthly) in CAD (2025) |
Average Cost (Monthly) in USD (2025) |
|
Health Insurance |
$58 - $83 (monthly average) |
$50 - $100 (monthly average) |
|
Transportation |
$90 - $120 |
$110 - $350 |
|
Food and Groceries |
$250 - $450 |
$350 - $550 |
|
Utilities |
$120 - $220 |
$120 - $250 |
|
Entertainment |
$120 - $250 |
$120 - $350 |
Cost of Studying (Tuition fee) in Canada vs USA
|
Degree |
Average tuition fees (Per Year in CAD) |
Average tuition fees (Per Year in USD) |
|
Undergraduate |
$12,000 - $25,000 |
$20,000 - $40,000 |
|
Graduate |
$24,000 - $35,000 |
$20,000 - $65,000 |
|
Doctoral |
$7,000 - $10,000 |
$28,000 - $55,000 |
Also Read: Cost of studying Canada for Indian students and Cost of Study in the USA for International Students
Canada vs USA: Post-Study Work Permit for International Students
Canada: The Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP Canada) for International Students in 2025 (PGWP) allows international students in Canada to gain valuable work experience for up to three years after graduation, facilitating a smooth transition to the Canadian job market.
USA: The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program offers similar work opportunities for international students, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in their field of study for one year. There are two types of OPT programs offered for international students, namely
- Pre-Completion OPT
- Post-Completion OPT
Canada vs USA for Working Professionals
Canada’s unemployment rate has been witnessing a steady constant drop from 6.9% in 2024 to 6% as of 2025 (present). Moving further let us look deeper into the eligibility requirements to work in the countries, top employers, salaries, etc., factors necessary for detailed exploration of either country for the working class.\
Canada vs USA Immigration Pathways for Working Professionals
Various immigration pathways or visa options to Canada for skilled or working professionals include
- Express Entry includes programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) provide routes to settle in specific provinces or territories.
- The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program targets skilled workers, graduates, and intermediate-skilled workers in Atlantic provinces.
- The Caregiver Program consists of the Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker Pilots.
- The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot attracts skilled workers to smaller communities.
- The Start-Up Visa Program aids entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas.
- The Agri-Food Pilot serves non-seasonal agri-food workers.
- The Temporary Foreign Worker Program helps employers fill temporary labor shortages.
- The Self-Employed Person Program is for cultural or athletic professionals.
- The Global Talent Stream expedites the hiring of skilled foreign workers in specific fields.
Various immigration pathways or visa options to the USA for skilled or working professionals include
- The H-1B Visa targets highly skilled professionals in specialized fields with a job offer.
- L-1 Visas cater to intracompany transfers within multinational corporations.
- EB-2 and EB-3 Visas are for professionals, including those with advanced degrees and skilled workers.
- The EB-5 Visa is for investors ready to make substantial investments and create jobs.
- O Visas apply to individuals with extraordinary abilities.
- J-1 Visas are for exchange visitors engaging in cultural exchange programs.
- E Visas cover treaty traders and investors involved in substantial trade or investments.
Canada vs USA Eligibility Requirements for Working Professionals
As a foreign national you would need to meet the minimum eligibility requirements criteria for Canada and USA to qualify for working in the nation.
|
Factor |
Eligibility Requirements to Work in Canada |
Eligibility Requirements to Work in the USA |
|
Job Offer |
Required |
Required |
|
Visa |
Work Permit is required |
Employer sponsorship through visas such as H-1B, L-1, O-1 etc., is required. |
|
Market Assessment report |
LMIA from ESDC (if required). |
LCA approval mandatory for H-1B visa. |
|
Proof of qualifications and work experience |
Required |
Required |
|
Employment authorization document |
Not Required |
Required |
|
Language Proficiency Requirement |
English or French. |
English |
|
Medical examination |
Varies (as visa requirements |
Medical examination in some cases. |
|
Police Verification |
Required |
Required |
|
Additional Requirements |
Specific requirements of the chosen immigration program. |
Meeting specific requirements of the chosen visa category. |
|
Proof of Funds |
CAD 10,000 or more |
USD 6,000 - USD 10,000 |
|
Health and Security Criteria |
As set by the Canadian government. |
As set by U.S. immigration authorities. |
Average Salary in Canada Vs USA: Earning Potential in 2025
Employment opportunities have always been one of the prime differentiating factors for an economy. The Forbes listing is one of the most looked up to rankings by companies or conglomerates.
Listed below is the list of top employers in Canada vs the USA, where Canada showcased their dedication to recruiting talent (skilled workers) into various industries throughout the provinces.
Top Employers in Canada
|
Top Employers in Canada (2025) |
Industry |
|
|
Tech |
|
Microsoft |
Tech |
|
Concordia University |
Education |
|
Hydro-Québec |
Utilities |
|
Desjardins |
Banking |
|
BC Hydro |
Utilities |
|
Ontario Power Generation |
Utilities |
|
Université de Sherbrooke |
Education |
|
Laval University |
Education |
|
Pythian |
Tech |
Top Employers in the USA
|
Top Employers in the USA (2025) |
Industry |
|
Amazon |
Tech/E-commerce |
|
Alphabet (Google) |
Tech |
|
Microsoft |
Tech |
|
Tesla |
Automotive/Energy |
|
Pfizer |
Pharmaceuticals |
|
NVIDIA |
Semiconductors, Electronics |
|
University of Notre Dame |
Education |
|
Houston Methodist |
Healthcare & Social Services |
|
Navy Federal Credit Union |
Banking and Financial Services |
|
IBM |
IT Software & Services |
Average Salary in Canada Vs USA: Earning Potential in 2025
From doctors to Engineers and more, the table below illustrates the expected average salary for the top 20 highest-paying jobs in Canada vs the USA. The table is updated according to 2025:
|
Job Title |
Average Salary in Canada (CAD) |
Average Salary in the USA (USD) |
|
Anesthesiologist |
$370,000 - $500,000 |
$280,000 - $420,000 |
|
Surgeon |
$360,000 - $490,000 |
$430,000 - $540,000 |
|
Psychiatrist |
$310,000 - $410,000 |
$235,000 - $280,000 |
|
Petroleum Engineer |
$130,000 - $200,000 |
$110,000 - $210,000 |
|
IT Manager |
$110,000 - $170,000 |
$105,000 - $180,000 |
|
Pharmacist |
$95,000 - $130,000 |
$115,000 - $155,000 |
|
Marketing Manager |
$90,000 - $130,000 |
$80,000 - $160,000 |
|
Financial Manager |
$85,000 - $125,000 |
$90,000 - $160,000 |
|
Human Resources Manager |
$80,000 - $120,000 |
$80,000 - $145,000 |
|
Civil Engineer |
$75,000 - $110,000 |
$70,000 - $125,000 |
|
Software Engineer |
$75,000 - $120,000 |
$85,000 - $140,000 |
|
Dentist |
$130,000 - $290,000 |
$160,000 - $210,000 |
|
Nurse Practitioner |
$95,000 - $130,000 |
$120,000 - $150,000 |
|
Financial Analyst |
$65,000 - $100,000 |
$65,000 - $130,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
$65,000 - $100,000 |
$70,000 - $115,000 |
|
Teacher |
$60,000 - $90,000 |
$55,000 - $85,000 |
|
Graphic Designer |
$50,000 - $80,000 |
$45,000 - $75,000 |
|
Journalist |
$45,000 - $75,000 |
$45,000 - $80,000 |
|
Chef |
$45,000 - $75,000 |
$45,000 - $80,000 |
|
Social Worker |
$45,000 - $75,000 |
$45,000 - $75,000 |
|
Data Scientist |
$85,000 - $140,000 |
$95,000 - $160,000 |
|
Cybersecurity Analyst |
$80,000 - $130,000 |
$90,000 - $145,000 |
Canada vs USA Tax System in 2025
Tax rates can be a notable distinguishing factor between the two countries. In the United States, federal income tax brackets range from 10% to 37% for individuals, while in Canada, the tax rates fall between 15% and 33%.
However, it's worth noting that in the U.S., individuals earning above $40,526 as singles are subject to a 22% tax rate, whereas in Canada, singles earning less than $49,020 are taxed at a lower rate of 15%.
Moving further, let us have a look at the Tax systems of either country and the benefits they provide.
Canada Tax System
Canada uses a progressive income tax system with federal and provincial taxes based on income levels. There's also a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which can be combined with provincial sales tax. Healthcare is publicly funded through general tax revenues, eliminating the need for a dedicated healthcare tax.
USA Tax System
The US has a progressive income tax system with federal and state taxes. Sales taxes vary by state, and property taxes are based on property values. There's no universal healthcare; individuals must buy health insurance independently without a dedicated healthcare tax.
Canada vs. USA: Benefits for Indian Professionals in 2025
Working in Canada and the United States both offer unique advantages. We have highlighted some of the unique benefits of working in each country:
Unique Benefits of Working in Canada
- Canada offers universal healthcare, covering essential medical services, and easing financial healthcare burdens.
- A robust social safety net includes employment insurance, parental leave, childcare, and support for individuals with disabilities.
- Canada offers a Life in Canada for Indian Immigrants in 2025 with a diverse society, excellent education, safety, natural beauty, and cultural diversity.
Also Read: 10 Major Benefits of Working in Canada
Unique Benefits of Working in the United States
- The USA boasts a robust economy with vast job opportunities and a thriving business culture.
- Higher wages compared to many countries offer greater earning potential.
- Strong entrepreneurial spirit and support for startups make it an attractive destination for business-minded individuals.
Canada vs USA Healthcare System in 2025
Both countries have robust healthcare systems. Canada's publicly funded Medicare offers cost-effective essential medical services. In the USA, private insurance is vital due to potentially high healthcare costs.
We have mentioned below the table consisting of the complete overview of Canada vs USA healthcare systems.
|
Factor |
Healthcare in Canada |
Healthcare in USA |
|
System Type |
Single-payer system |
Multi-payer system |
|
Coverage |
Universal healthcare coverage |
Varied coverage, with a significant uninsured population |
|
Funding |
Funded through taxes and government revenue |
Combination of public and private funding |
|
Access to Care |
Generally shorter wait times for primary care |
Longer wait times for certain procedures |
|
Cost of Healthcare |
Lower overall healthcare costs per capita |
Higher overall healthcare costs per capita |
|
Insurance Coverage |
Coverage for all Canadian residents |
Insurance coverage may vary based on individual plans and employment |
|
Prescription Medication Coverage |
Generally more affordable and regulated prices |
Prices can vary significantly and may be higher |
|
Person’s Expenses (to be paid by the patient) |
Minimal out-of-pocket expenses for medically necessary services |
Higher out-of-pocket expenses and potential medical debt |
|
Medical Bankruptcy |
Rare occurrence due to universal coverage |
Significant cases of medical bankruptcy |
USA vs Canada - Which Is Your Next Immigration Destination for 2025?
Choosing between the USA & Canada in 2025 either for work or study can be a difficult decision to make. Canada excels in welcoming policies, diversity, and affordable healthcare, while the US offers prestigious universities and a dynamic job market, notably in tech and entertainment.
Your choice should align with your goals, considering factors like immigration paths, job opportunities, education quality, costs, and cultural fit. Seek professional advice for a well-informed decision.
Looking forward to embracing your career abroad plans? Connect to GetGIS for exceptional, prompt, and dedicated immigration assistance, making sure your choice is only informed and the right fit for you.
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country offers lower living costs Canada or the USA?
Is Canada PR better than the H1B Visa in the USA?
Which is better, Canada or the USA?
Which country is better for Student immigration, Canada or the USA?
Is it possible to visit Canada on a US H1B visa?
