Cost of Living in Canada 2025
Topics covered
- Published: 23 September 2025
Factors influencing the cost of living in Canada
City of Residence: Living in Toronto or Vancouver is significantly pricier than in Ottawa, Calgary, or Montreal. Each province also has different tax structures and services.
Accommodation Type: On-campus housing, private rentals, or shared apartments; each accommodation comes with different pricing. Expect to pay a premium in downtown areas.
Retail Habits: Shopping at budget-friendly stores like Walmart or Loblaws can save you money compared to boutique shops.
Transport Systems: Cities like Toronto use the TTC, while Montreal relies on the OPUS Card system—monthly costs vary by city.
Healthcare & Insurance: While Canada offers public healthcare, newcomers and students may need private health insurance until eligible for provincial coverage.
Breakdown of monthly expenses in Canada
Rent (1-bedroom in downtown Toronto or Vancouver): CAD 1,798 – $2,153
Rent (shared accommodation in cities like Calgary or Montreal): CAD 700 – $1,200
Groceries (shopping at Walmart, Loblaws, etc.): CAD 333
Utilities + Internet (electricity, heating, Wi-Fi): CAD 184
Expect higher costs during the winter months.
Public Transit Pass (TTC in Toronto, OPUS Card in Montreal): CAD 113
Mobile Phone Plan + Internet Package: CAD 60 – $120
Health Insurance (for international students or newcomers): CAD 60 – $100
Often required until provincial coverage kicks in.
Dining Out (e.g. Tim Hortons or local cafes/restaurants): CAD 71
Personal & Miscellaneous (clothing, toiletries, entertainment): CAD 100 – $200
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Cost of living comparison: Canada vs. other countries
Budgeting tips to save money in Canada
Use Student Services: Take advantage of programs like the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP) and provincial grants.
Think about Shared living: Split rent and utilities to cut monthly housing costs.
Cook More, Dine Less: Frequent visits to restaurants or cafes add up—shop at Walmart or Loblaws and cook at home.
Buy Winter Gear Smart: Shop off-season or second-hand for coats, boots, and accessories.
Use City Transit Passes: The TTC in Toronto and OPUS Card in Montreal offer student rates and unlimited rides.
Track Spending: download a money-tracking app to help you monitor your monthly spending and avoid surprises.
Know Your Tax Benefits: Use tools from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to claim eligible student tax credits.
Big cities in Canada for affordable living
Here are five cities that balance cost, quality of life, and opportunities:
Cities | Highlights |
Calgary, Alberta | Lower cost of living than Vancouver/Toronto. No provincial sales tax and lots of green space. |
Ottawa, Ontario | Affordable rent compared to Toronto. Home to government institutions and great public services. |
Montreal, Quebec | Excellent for students (especially French-speaking). Subsidised housing and affordable public transit via OPUS Card. |
Edmonton, Alberta | Home to the University of Alberta. Offers strong community life and budget-friendly housing. |
Sherbrooke, Quebec | Quiet, student-oriented city. Great for students on a budget who want a French-language experience. |
FAQs
How much is rent in Canada per month?
Monthly rent can range from CAD 700 for shared housing to over $2,135 for a one-bedroom apartment in city centres like Toronto or Vancouver.
How much money do you need to live in Canada?
On average, an individual needs CAD $3,993 to 7,230 per month to cover rent, food, transport, and other basic expenses.
Is it cheaper to live in Canada or the USA?
Canada generally has lower healthcare costs and more affordable education, while the USA may offer cheaper goods and services in some regions, overall, Canada is often slightly more affordable for students.
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