Canada has been a student-friendly country for ages now. Why? Due to the presence of top universities and colleges offering globally recognised study programs, there is no doubt that with each year, the number of students applying for Canada student visa from India is increasing.
One of the major aspects of studying abroad is the cost. It can be hard with the rising tuition fees and living expenses to find cities with affordable monthly rent along with other expenses. Recently, the Canadian immigration authorities increased the cost of living for international students - from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,635 (in addition to tuition fees and travel costs).
Fortunately, you are in luck as Canada features several cities with a lower cost of living. This way, you won’t have to compromise on the quality of education or the overall student experience.
5 affordable cities in Canada for international students, along with their average cost of living.
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal will always find a special place in the list of affordable Canadian cities for international students. The biggest advantage for students living here is the cultural diversity. Due to so many reputed universities and colleges, students from far-off lands apply for Canada Study Visa to get top-quality education. As for the rent, monthly you have to pay around CAD 1,290 for a one-bedroom apartment. The costs of food, transportation, and utilities are separate.
Estimated Cost of Living in Montreal for international students:
Housing: CAD 1290
Food: CAD 300 - 500
Transportation: CAD 220
Utilities: CAD 200
Calgary, Alberta
Alberta is also one of the most affordable provinces, especially Calgary. There are some world-known universities and colleges here with affordable tuition fees and other expenses.. Out of all the cities in the Alberta province, Calgary houses the youngest population, mainly international students. If you wish to get a one-bedroom apartment in Calgary, you’ll have to pay a monthly rent of CAD 800.
Estimated Cost of Living in Calgary for international students:
Housing: CAD 800
Food: CAD 250 - 450
Transportation: CAD 150
Utilities: CAD 250
Kingston, Ontario
Kingston ranks as one of the top cities where international students are admitted. Why? The top universities like Queen’s University, St. Lawrence University, and the Royal Military College of Canada offer globally recognized study programs. Students who choose Kingston have to pay around CAD 1,2200 for a one-bedroom apartment monthly and also sort out expenses for groceries and transportation. Besides, the living standard and the strong student environment make living in Kingston enjoyable.
Estimated Cost of Living in Kingston for international students:
Housing: CAD 1220
Food: CAD 300 - 500
Transportation: CAD 140
Utilities: CAD 230
Ottawa, Ontario
If you are planning to study at the best Ottawa universities, you must be aware of the cost of living too. Here, a one-bedroom apartment costs around CAD 1,200. Once that’s sorted, Ottawa is no more than a student’s paradise. With renowned universities like Carleton University and the University of Ottawa, the city offers research and innovation opportunities for international students. Ottawa also has amazing transport facilities, part-time jobs, and internship opportunities that you can explore.
Estimated Cost of Living in Ottawa for international students:
Housing: CAD 1200
Food: CAD 300 - 480
Transportation: CAD 120
Utilities: CAD 210
Abbotsford, British Columbia
Generally, British Columbia is considered an expensive province. However, you will be surprised to know there are a few cities like Abbotsford, which are quite cheap for students to live in. Here, you will find houses at cheap rent rates. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment here costs around CAD 1,432 per month. Also, the average cost of living in Abbotsford, BC is 3.6% below the national average.
Estimated Cost of Living in Abbotsford for international students:
Housing: CAD 1432
Food: CAD 200 - 400
Transportation: CAD 110
Utilities: CAD 180
Laval, Quebec
Among the largest cities in the province of Quebec, Laval is not a very popular city for international students. However, in terms of living costs, it ranks among the top. With universities like Montmorency College and Collège CDI - Laval, this city attracts many students from across the world. Therefore, choosing Laval can help you save a lot as you only have to pay a monthly rent of CAD 1,273 for a one-bedroom apartment.
Estimated Cost of Living in Laval for international students:
Housing: CAD 1273
Food: CAD 280 - 480
Transportation: CAD 200
Utilities: CAD 200
There you have it! The top affordable cities in Canada for international students with cheap rent and living expenses. If you’re planning to pursue higher education in the Great White North, do not hesitate to contact the best Canada Visa Consultants in Bangalore, Nationwide Visas. With more than 16 years of experience in helping aspiring students acquire study visas and post-landing settlements, Nationwide Visas is equipped with all the necessary tools and knowledge to make the transition easier for you
