Student Life in Canada

The cost of living in Canada will pleasantly surprise you. Although it is a huge and highly developed western country, life here is not expensive. You might be surprised to compare local rates with prices in London or New York. From our article you will learn about how much a student’s life costs in the largest cities of Canada.

Accommodation

During the first course of study, most foreign students of Canadian universities live in student residences. Residence rooms are usually designed for two or more students, while kitchens, lounges and laundries are shared. The cost of living on campus is usually CAD3,000-7,500 per year.

From the second year, most students prefer to rent housing with friends, sharing payment. Thus, the student gets his own room and shares with his friends the kitchen, bathroom and lounge. The cost of rental housing depends on the city and region. Traditionally, the highest rents are found in major cities such as Calgary, Vancouver, and Toronto. The cost of living off campus is usually CAD250-700 per month.

Compare the cost of renting a 3-bedroom apartment in major cities of Canada:

Toronto - CAD1,900

Vancouver - CAD1,950

Ottawa - CAD1,300

Montreal - CAD1,050

Edmonton - CAD1,500

Calgary - CAD1,600

International students in Canada also have the option of living with a local family. The cost of such a stay is about CAD200 per month, in addition, the student pays CAD400-800 per month for meals, cleaning, etc. Homestay is a great opportunity for a foreigner to make new friends among the local population, improve their English and have fun while living in their usual home environment.

Transport

Toronto TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) transport system includes buses and subways.

There are several types of tickets in the city:

Monthly pass - CAD99.75

Travel for a year - CAD91.50 / month

Day pass - CAD8.50

One trip - CAD2.50