Most Affordable Cities in Canada for Students in 2025: Top 10 Picks

If you’re planning to study in Canada, you’ve probably checked the cost of living. You start researching, get excited about cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and then… you see the rent prices. ₹1.2 lakh+ (CAD 2,000) for a one-bedroom? That’s enough to make any student rethink their options.

But not every city in Canada will leave you stressing over expenses. Some offer lower rent, budget-friendly transportation, and a decent quality of life while still providing top universities, great career opportunities, and a strong student community.

According to Numbeo (2024), living in some smaller Canadian cities can be up to 30% cheaper than in big metro areas. That means more savings, less stress, and a better student experience overall.

Canada currently hosts over 800,000 international students, with Indians making up the largest group—around 41% (328,000 students) (IRCC, 2024). If you’re looking for a city where you can study, manage your expenses, and still have a life outside of classes, this blog is for you.

Affordable Cities in Canada for Students

If you’re looking for a smart financial choice without compromising on education and job opportunities, these 10 cities should be on your radar.

#10 – Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton, located just an hour from Toronto, is a fast-growing student city with lower rent and cost of living while still providing access to Toronto’s job market. It’s home to over 20,000 international students, including a large Indian community.

Compared to Toronto, the cost of living in Hamilton is 20–25% lower, which makes it a more budget-friendly alternative (Numbeo, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Hamilton (₹1.5 – ₹1.8 lakh per month) is comparable to living in Bangalore or Pune, while Toronto’s cost is more like Mumbai or Delhi NCR in terms of rent and expenses.

Why Hamilton is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Lower rent compared to Toronto	One-bedroom apartment costs ₹92,000 (CAD 1,500), whereas in Toronto, it's ₹1.2 lakh+ (CAD 2,000).
Easier access to part-time jobs	Growing sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and service provide more job opportunities for students.
Well-connected to Toronto’s job market	Many students live in Hamilton and commute to Toronto to save on rent while attending universities in both cities.

Top Universities in Hamilton

• McMaster University – Ranked #176 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025, McMaster is renowned for its programs in medicine, engineering, and business.
• Mohawk College – Well-known for healthcare, technology, and business programs, offering diploma and certificate courses at affordable tuition rates.

Monthly Living Expenses in Hamilton

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,500	₹92,000
Shared Accommodation	800 – 1,000	₹49,000 – ₹61,000
Groceries	300 – 400	₹18,500 – ₹25,000
Transportation (Public Transit)	110	₹6,700
Utilities & Internet	150 – 200	₹9,200 – ₹12,300
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	250	₹15,300
Total (Approx.)	2,500 – 3,000	₹1.5 lakh – ₹1.8 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Lifestyle & Quality of Life

A growing Indian community makes Hamilton feel like home. The city celebrates Diwali and Holi with cultural events, and you'll find great Indian restaurants and grocery stores. You’ll also love the nearby hiking trails, which are perfect for weekend getaways with friends.

Want to explore more affordable options? Check out this guide on the cheapest universities in Canada to find budget-friendly programs!

#9 – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon is one of Canada’s most affordable cities. It offers low rent, cheaper tuition, and fewer students competing for part-time jobs. It’s also one of the fastest-growing cities in Western Canada with a strong agriculture, healthcare, and tech sector.

Saskatchewan has one of Canada’s lowest unemployment rates (4.4%), meaning more job opportunities for students (Statistics Canada, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Saskatoon (₹1.3 – ₹1.6 lakh per month) is comparable to Hyderabad or Ahmedabad, much lower than the costs of living in major metro cities like Delhi or Mumbai.

Why Saskatoon is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Cheaper rent and daily expenses	One-bedroom apartments cost ₹73,000 (CAD 1,200), much lower than major cities.
Lower tuition fees	Many Saskatchewan universities offer some of the lowest tuition rates in Canada.
Less competition for jobs	Saskatoon has a 4.4% unemployment rate, increasing job opportunities for students.

Top Universities in Saskatoon

• University of Saskatchewan – Globally ranked #340 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, it's recognized for research excellence, particularly in agriculture and biosciences.
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic – Great for technical and diploma programs in healthcare and engineering.

Monthly Living Expenses in Saskatoon

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,200	₹73,000
Shared Accommodation	600 – 900	₹37,000 – ₹55,000
Groceries	250 – 350	₹15,300 – ₹21,500
Transportation (Public Transit)	90	₹5,500
Utilities & Internet	120 – 180	₹7,400 – ₹11,000
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	200	₹12,300
Total (Approx.)	2,200 – 2,700	₹1.3 lakh – ₹1.6 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Lifestyle & Quality of Life

Saskatoon is calm, friendly, and less crowded, which is great for students who like a peaceful vibe. The Indian community here is small but active, and you’ll find regular cultural events like Indian film screenings and festivals. You’ll also love the outdoor activities along the South Saskatchewan River—perfect for nature lovers.

Looking for more budget-friendly study options? Check out the cost of studying in Canada for international students to plan your finances better!

#8 – Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg isn’t just known for being cold in the winter—it’s also one of the most budget-friendly cities for students in Canada. The capital of Manitoba, it has lower rent, cheaper tuition, and strong job opportunities - perfect for students who want an affordable yet well-connected city. Winnipeg has a growing Indian student community, and thanks to its lower cost of living, it’s attracting more international students each year.

Winnipeg’s cost of living is 25–30% lower than Vancouver (Numbeo, 2024) - it is a great pick for students looking to save on expenses.

For Indian students, the cost of living in Winnipeg (₹1.4 – ₹1.7 lakh per month) is comparable to Chennai or Kolkata, whereas in Vancouver, it’s closer to Delhi or Mumbai.

Why Winnipeg is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Lower rent than most big cities	A one-bedroom apartment costs ₹85,000 (CAD 1,400), compared to ₹1.5 lakh+ (CAD 2,500) in Vancouver.
Affordable food and transport	Groceries and public transit cost 10-15% less than in major cities.
Low tuition fees and scholarships	Manitoba has some of the lowest tuition rates in Canada, with additional scholarships for international students.

Top Universities in Winnipeg

• University of Manitoba – Ranked #671-680 in the QS World University Rankings 2025, known for engineering, business, and health sciences.
• University of Winnipeg – Known for smaller class sizes and affordable tuition, particularly in business and social sciences.
• Red River College Polytechnic – Strong in technical and applied programs, with a high job placement rate after graduation.

Monthly Living Expenses in Winnipeg

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,400	₹85,000
Shared Accommodation	700 – 1,000	₹43,000 – ₹61,000
Groceries	250 – 350	₹15,300 – ₹21,500
Transportation (Public Transit)	100	₹6,100
Utilities & Internet	150 – 200	₹9,200 – ₹12,300
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	200	₹12,300
Total (Approx.)	2,200 – 2,700	₹1.4 lakh – ₹1.7 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Lifestyle & Quality of Life

Winnipeg has a growing Indian student presence, and the community is super welcoming. Whether it’s celebrating Navratri or enjoying Indian street food, there’s always something to do. 

Looking for details on overall living cost in Canada? Check out the cost of living in Canada to plan your budget!

#7 – Regina, Saskatchewan

If you’re looking for an affordable city with low rent, cheaper tuition, and strong job opportunities, Regina should be on your list. As the capital of Saskatchewan, Regina is less crowded than major cities but still offers top universities, a growing economy, and a welcoming student community.

Saskatchewan has one of Canada’s lowest unemployment rates (4.6%), which means better job opportunities for students (Statistics Canada, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Regina (₹1.2 – ₹1.5 lakh per month) is similar to Lucknow or Chandigarh, whereas living in cities like Vancouver or Toronto is closer to Delhi or Mumbai in terms of expenses.

Why Regina is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Cheaper rent than major cities	One-bedroom apartments cost ₹73,000 (CAD 1,200), compared to ₹1.2 lakh+ (CAD 2,000) in Toronto.
Lower cost of daily expenses	Groceries, transportation, and entertainment are 25-30% less than in larger cities.
Tuition discounts for international students	Many universities in Regina offer discounted tuition for international students.

Top Universities in Regina

• University of Regina – One of Canada’s fastest-growing universities, known for engineering, business, and education programs.
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic – Regina Campus – Offers career-focused technical and diploma programs in healthcare, engineering, and IT.

Monthly Living Expenses in Regina

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,200	₹73,000
Shared Accommodation	600 – 900	₹37,000 – ₹55,000
Groceries	250 – 350	₹15,300 – ₹21,500
Transportation (Public Transit)	90	₹5,500
Utilities & Internet	120 – 180	₹7,400 – ₹11,000
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	200	₹12,300
Total (Approx.)	2,200 – 2,700	₹1.3 lakh – ₹1.6 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Lifestyle & Quality of Life

Regina offers a quieter, more tight-knit student experience, which many Indian students appreciate. There’s a growing Indian community, and Diwali and Eid celebrations are popular. 

Want to ease your study expenses? Check out Canada scholarships for Indian students to find funding options!

#6 – Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is known for oil and cowboy culture—but it’s also one of Canada’s most livable cities, and offers a strong economy, great universities, and easy access to nature. With 333 days of sunshine a year, it’s the sunniest city in Canada which makes long winters a little easier to handle.

What’s more? It’s one of the most affordable major cities. Unlike Toronto or Vancouver, Calgary has no provincial sales tax (PST), lower rent, and a strong job market. This makes it a practical choice for students looking for both quality education and job opportunities.

Calgary has the highest median income in Canada, meaning students who stay back after graduation have better earning potential (Statistics Canada, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Calgary (₹1.6 – ₹1.9 lakh per month) is similar to Bangalore or Hyderabad, while in Vancouver, it’s closer to Delhi or Mumbai.

Why Calgary is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
No provincial sales tax (PST)	Alberta doesn’t charge PST, reducing the cost of groceries, shopping, and entertainment.
Lower rent compared to Toronto and Vancouver	A one-bedroom apartment costs ₹98,000 (CAD 1,600), versus ₹1.5 lakh+ (CAD 2,500) in Vancouver.
Strong job market	Calgary’s job market is strong, with opportunities in sectors like tech, finance, and energy.

Top Universities in Calgary

• University of Calgary – A top Canadian university with strong programs in engineering, business, and health sciences. (Ranked #=198 in the QS World University Rankings 2025)
• Mount Royal University – Offers smaller class sizes and hands-on learning.
• SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) – Known for technology, business, and skilled trades programs, with high post-graduation employment rates.

Monthly Living Expenses in Calgary

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,600	₹98,000
Shared Accommodation	800 – 1,200	₹49,000 – ₹73,000
Groceries	300 – 400	₹18,500 – ₹25,000
Transportation (Public Transit)	109	₹6,700
Utilities & Internet	150 – 200	₹9,200 – ₹12,300
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	250	₹15,300
Total (Approx.)	2,400 – 3,000	₹1.6 lakh – ₹1.9 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Life in Calgary

Calgary has a big and vibrant Indian community, which means lots of opportunities to meet people, join clubs, and get involved in cultural events. You won’t miss the Indian culture here. Plus, there’s easy access to the Rockies, where you can hike or ski during the weekends.

#5 – St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador

If you want a laid-back, friendly, and super affordable place to study, St. John’s should be on your list. This coastal city in eastern Canada has stunning ocean views, colorful houses, and the lowest rent in the country. It’s a small city with a big personality, and students love it for the easygoing lifestyle and tight-knit community.

St. John’s is Canada’s most affordable city for rent, nearly 50% cheaper than Toronto (CMHC, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in St. John’s (₹1.1 – ₹1.4 lakh per month) is similar to Bhopal or Bhubaneswar, while cities like Vancouver or Toronto have expenses closer to Delhi or Mumbai.

Why St. John’s is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Lowest rent in Canada	One-bedroom apartments cost ₹61,000 (CAD 1,000), nearly 50% cheaper than in Toronto.
Lower tuition fees	Newfoundland’s universities have some of the most affordable tuition rates in Canada.
Less competition for jobs	Fewer international students mean it’s easier to find part-time work.

Top Universities in St. John’s

• Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) – One of Canada’s most affordable research universities, offering top programs in marine biology, engineering, and business. (Ranked #661-670 in the QS World University Rankings 2025.)
• College of the North Atlantic – Offers diplomas and certificate programs in IT, healthcare, and skilled trades, with a high employment rate after graduation.

Monthly Living Expenses in St. John’s

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,000	₹61,000
Shared Accommodation	500 – 700	₹30,000 – ₹43,000
Groceries	250 – 350	₹15,300 – ₹21,500
Transportation (Public Transit)	85	₹5,200
Utilities & Internet	120 – 180	₹7,400 – ₹11,000
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	150	₹9,200
Total (Approx.)	1,800 – 2,200	₹1.1 lakh – ₹1.4 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Life in St. John’s

St. John’s is a smaller city with a charming vibe, and the Indian student community is tight-knit. While it’s quieter, you’ll still find great Indian food and celebrations like Diwali. 

#4 – Sherbrooke, Quebec

Sherbrooke is a true student city, where nearly one in three residents is a student. That means cheaper rent, tons of student discounts, and a social scene built around campus life. Unlike bigger cities like Montreal, where living costs can add up quickly, Sherbrooke keeps things budget-friendly while still offering a high-quality education and an active lifestyle.

Sherbrooke’s cost of living is 27% lower than the Canadian average (Areavibes, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Sherbrooke (₹1.5 – ₹1.8 lakh per month) is similar to Pune or Jaipur, while Montreal’s costs are closer to Mumbai or Delhi.

Why Sherbrooke is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Lower rent than Montreal	One-bedroom apartments cost ₹64,000 (CAD 1,050), nearly 40% cheaper than Montreal.
Free public transit for students	Université de Sherbrooke students get unlimited free rides, saving on commuting costs.
Budget-friendly lifestyle	Groceries, eating out, and entertainment are all cheaper than in larger cities.

Top Universities in Sherbrooke

• Université de Sherbrooke – Ranked #851-900 in QS World University Rankings 2025, known for strong research, co-op programs, and employer connections.
• Bishop’s University – A tight-knit, English-speaking university famous for small class sizes and active campus life.

Monthly Living Expenses in Sherbrooke

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,050	₹64,000
Shared Accommodation	650 – 900	₹39,000 – ₹55,000
Groceries	300 – 400	₹18,500 – ₹25,000
Transportation (Public Transit)	Free for students	₹0
Utilities & Internet	150 – 200	₹9,200 – ₹12,300
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	200	₹12,300
Total (Approx.)	2,200 – 2,700	₹1.5 lakh – ₹1.8 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

If you’re looking to save money and still get a world-class education, Sherbrooke is a smart pick. Check out cost of living in Montreal and compare.

Student Life in Sherbrooke

The city’s French-English bilingual culture is an added bonus if you’re looking to brush up on your French. Indian festivals are celebrated here, and it’s great for those who enjoy a balance of studying and outdoor fun.

Looking for affordable master’s programs? Check out the cost of studying for a master’s in Canada.

#3 – Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about studying in Canada, but that’s exactly why it’s a hidden gem for students. It’s one of the most affordable cities in the country, with low tuition fees, cheap rent, and a job market that welcomes international students.

The city is also bilingual, meaning you can study, work, and live in both English and French, giving you an edge in the job market after graduation..

Moncton’s cost of living is 17% lower than the Canadian average (Areavibes, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Moncton (₹1.3 – ₹1.7 lakh per month) is similar to Kochi or Indore, while cities like Toronto or Vancouver are closer to Delhi or Mumbai.

Why Moncton is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Cheapest rent in Atlantic Canada	A one-bedroom apartment costs ₹55,000 – ₹73,000 (CAD 900 – 1,200).
Lower daily expenses	Groceries, utilities, and dining out are much cheaper than in bigger cities.
Low tuition fees	Universities here offer some of the lowest tuition rates in Canada.

Top Universities in Moncton

• Université de Moncton – Ranked #1201-1400 in QS World University Rankings 2025, the largest French-language university outside Quebec, offering strong law, business, and healthcare programs.
• Crandall University – A small, private institution known for personalized education and strong community ties.

Monthly Living Expenses in Moncton

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	900 – 1,200	₹55,000 – ₹73,000
Shared Accommodation	600 – 900	₹37,000 – ₹55,000
Groceries	250 – 350	₹15,300 – ₹21,500
Transportation (Public Transit)	80 – 100	₹5,000 – ₹6,100
Utilities & Internet	150 – 200	₹9,200 – ₹12,300
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	200	₹12,300
Total (Approx.)	2,180 – 2,950	₹1.3 lakh – ₹1.7 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Life in Moncton

Moncton is laid-back, welcoming, and has a small but active Indian student group. You’ll enjoy Diwali celebrations, a variety of Indian food, and the city’s natural beauty, with beaches and parks perfect for weekend relaxation.

Thinking of studying in Canada? Learn how to pick the right city with this guide!

#2 – Laval, Quebec

Laval gives students the best of both worlds—the affordability of a smaller city with the perks of being next to Montreal. It’s a cheaper, quieter alternative to Montreal, yet well-connected by public transit, allowing students to commute easily to universities, jobs, and social life in the big city.

Laval’s cost of living is 22% lower than the Canadian average (Areavibes, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Laval (₹1.6 – ₹1.9 lakh per month) is similar to Bangalore or Hyderabad, while living in Montreal is closer to Mumbai or Delhi.

Why Laval is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Cheaper rent than Montreal	One-bedroom apartments cost ₹91,000 (CAD 1,500), compared to ₹1.2 lakh+ (CAD 2,000) in Montreal.
Public transit access	Students can use the Laval-Montreal metro system, saving on commuting costs.
Lower daily expenses	Food, entertainment, and utilities cost less than in downtown Montreal.

Top Universities in Laval

• Université de Montréal – Laval Campus – A satellite campus of one of Canada’s top universities, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Collège Montmorency – A leading public college, offering technical and pre-university programs.

Monthly Living Expenses in Laval

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	1,500	₹91,000
Shared Accommodation	800 – 1,200	₹49,000 – ₹73,000
Groceries	300 – 400	₹18,500 – ₹25,000
Transportation (Public Transit)	95	₹5,900
Utilities & Internet	150 – 200	₹9,200 – ₹12,300
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	250	₹15,300
Total (Approx.)	2,400 – 2,900	₹1.6 lakh – ₹1.9 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Life in Laval

Laval is a great option for those who want to be close to Montreal without the high costs. Indian students enjoy the city’s peaceful vibe, while still having access to Montreal’s vibrant social scene.

Want to compare cities before making a decision? Check out the best student cities in Canada!

#1 – Trois-Rivières, Quebec (Most Affordable City!)

If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly city in Canada for students, Trois-Rivières takes the top spot. Located between Montreal and Quebec City, it offers the lowest rent, affordable tuition fees, and a lower cost of living than any other major student city in Canada.

Trois-Rivières has the lowest rent in Canada, nearly 60% cheaper than Toronto (CMHC, 2024).

For Indian students, the cost of living in Trois-Rivières (₹1.1 – ₹1.4 lakh per month) is similar to Bhopal or Nagpur, while cities like Vancouver or Toronto have expenses closer to Delhi or Mumbai.

Why Trois-Rivières is Affordable for Students

Reason for Affordability	Details
Lowest rent in Canada	One-bedroom apartments cost ₹55,000 (CAD 900), nearly 60% cheaper than Toronto.
Lower tuition fees	Universities in Trois-Rivières offer some of the most affordable tuition rates in Canada.
Cheaper everyday expenses	Food, transportation, and entertainment cost 40-50% less than in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver.

Top Universities in Trois-Rivières

• Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) – Ranked #1201-1400 in QS World University Rankings 2025, known for engineering, healthcare, and business programs.

Monthly Living Expenses in Trois-Rivières

Expense	Average Cost (CAD)	Converted Cost (INR)
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	900	₹55,000
Shared Accommodation	500 – 700	₹30,000 – ₹43,000
Groceries	250 – 350	₹15,300 – ₹21,500
Transportation (Public Transit)	75	₹4,600
Utilities & Internet	120 – 180	₹7,400 – ₹11,000
Miscellaneous (Dining out, entertainment)	150	₹9,200
Total (Approx.)	1,800 – 2,200	₹1.1 lakh – ₹1.4 lakh

*Conversion rates may vary.

Source: Numbeo Canada

Student Life in Trois-Rivières

Trois-Rivières is budget-friendly, and while the Indian student population is smaller, the city’s student-focused atmosphere makes it easy to connect with others. It’s perfect for students who want to focus on their studies while enjoying low-cost living and outdoor adventures on the weekends.

Curious how Trois-Rivières compares to other cities? Check out the cost of living in Toronto or Ottawa to see the difference!

Explore courses in Canada with this guide!

Tuition Fees in Canada: Which Cities Offer the Cheapest Education?

Tuition fees can be a major expense when studying in Canada. The average tuition fee for international students is CAD 36,100 per year (₹21.6 lakh), but this varies significantly based on the university and city (Government of Canada, 2024).

While Toronto and Vancouver have some of the highest tuition fees, cities like Quebec City and Winnipeg offer significantly lower costs.

Comparison of Tuition Fees in Cheapest Canadian Cities

City	Public University Fees (CAD/INR)	Private University Fees (CAD/INR)
Hamilton	CAD 6,500 – CAD 8,000 (₹3,90,000 – ₹4,80,000)	CAD 15,000 – CAD 18,000 (₹9,00,000 – ₹10,80,000)
Saskatoon	CAD 5,200 – CAD 6,200 (₹3,12,000 – ₹3,72,000)	CAD 11,500 – CAD 14,500 (₹6,90,000 – ₹8,70,000)
Winnipeg	CAD 5,000 – CAD 6,000 (₹3,00,000 – ₹3,60,000)	CAD 11,000 – CAD 14,000 (₹6,60,000 – ₹8,40,000)
Regina	CAD 6,000 – CAD 7,000 (₹3,60,000 – ₹4,20,000)	CAD 13,000 – CAD 16,000 (₹7,80,000 – ₹9,60,000)
Calgary	CAD 6,000 – CAD 7,000 (₹3,60,000 – ₹4,20,000)	CAD 13,000 – CAD 16,000 (₹7,80,000 – ₹9,60,000)
St. John’s	CAD 6,200 – CAD 7,200 (₹3,72,000 – ₹4,32,000)	CAD 13,500 – CAD 16,500 (₹8,10,000 – ₹9,90,000)
Sherbrooke	CAD 5,500 – CAD 6,500 (₹3,30,000 – ₹3,90,000)	CAD 12,000 – CAD 15,000 (₹7,20,000 – ₹9,00,000)
Moncton	CAD 5,500 – CAD 6,500 (₹3,30,000 – ₹3,90,000)	CAD 12,000 – CAD 15,000 (₹7,20,000 – ₹9,00,000)
Laval	CAD 5,500 – CAD 6,500 (₹3,30,000 – ₹3,90,000)	CAD 12,000 – CAD 15,000 (₹7,20,000 – ₹9,00,000)
Trois-Rivières	CAD 4,500 – CAD 5,500 (₹2,70,000 – ₹3,30,000)	CAD 10,000 – CAD 13,000 (₹6,00,000 – ₹7,80,000)

Conversion rates may vary.

Trois-Rivières and Quebec City provide the lowest tuition fees which is why they are great options for students on a budget.

Applying for a student visa? Learn more about the Canadian visitor visa process!

Best Part-Time Job Opportunities for Students in the Cheapest Cities in Canada

Finding a part-time job while studying in Canada can help students manage living costs and gain valuable work experience. But do these cheapest cities cities offer the best opportunities? 

As of 2025, international students can work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (Government of Canada, 2024).

For Indian students (Statistics Canada (2024)), the average hourly wage for part-time jobs in Canada ranges from ₹780 – ₹1,200 (CAD 13 – CAD 20). 

So, where are the best student jobs? Which cities have the most opportunities? 

Part-Time Job Opportunities in the Cheapest Cities in Canada

City	Popular Part-Time Jobs	Average Hourly Wage (CAD/INR)	Why It’s Student-Friendly
Hamilton, Ontario	Retail Assistant, Barista, Tutor	CAD15 – CAD20 (₹900 – ₹1,200)	Close to Toronto, many on-campus jobs at McMaster University
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan	Sales Clerk, Call Center, Farm Work	CAD14 – CAD19 (₹840 – ₹1,140)	Low unemployment rate, less competition for jobs
Winnipeg, Manitoba	Store Clerk, Warehouse, Customer Service	CAD14 – CAD18 (₹840 – ₹1,080)	Many logistics and customer service jobs
Regina, Saskatchewan	Cashier, Hospitality, Nursing Assistant	CAD13 – CAD19 (₹780 – ₹1,140)	Strong demand for hospitality and healthcare roles
Calgary, Alberta	Admin Assistant, Retail, Tech Internships	CAD15 – CAD20 (₹900 – ₹1,200)	Higher wages, strong economy with tech and finance jobs
St. John’s, Newfoundland	Call Center, Tutor, Retail	CAD14 – CAD19 (₹840 – ₹1,140)	One of Canada’s highest student job placement rates
Sherbrooke, Quebec	Research Assistant, Teaching Assistant	CAD13 – CAD18 (₹780 – ₹1,080)	Large student population, strong university hiring
Moncton, New Brunswick	Customer Support, Hospitality, Cashier	CAD14 – CAD19 (₹840 – ₹1,140)	Bilingual jobs available in both English and French
Laval, Quebec	Retail Assistant, Office Admin, Sales	CAD13 – CAD18 (₹780 – ₹1,080)	Proximity to Montreal opens up more job opportunities
Trois-Rivières, Quebec	Tutor, Food Service, Retail	CAD13 – CAD17 (₹780 – ₹1,020)	Low rent and cost of living make it easier to save money

Source: Glassdoor

Wages depend on job type and employer. Specialized jobs (like research assistants) may pay more.

Earnings from Part-Time Jobs

Your earnings depend on your hourly wage and how many hours you work.

Hours Worked Per Week	Monthly Earnings (CAD)	Monthly Earnings (INR)
10 hours	CAD600 – CAD800	₹36,000 – ₹48,000
15 hours	CAD900 – CAD1,200	₹54,000 – ₹72,000
20 hours	CAD1,200 – CAD1,600	₹72,000 – ₹96,000
24 hours	CAD1,400 – CAD1,900	₹86,000 – ₹1,14,000

Want to earn while studying? Learn more about part-time jobs in Canada for international students!

Eligibility Requirements:

• You must have a valid study permit.
• You must be enrolled full-time at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• You need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work legally in Canada.

Thinking about staying in Canada after graduation? Learn how to transition from a student visa to PR with this guide!

upGrad Abroad – Helping You Study in Canada on a Budget

Thinking about studying in Canada but worried about the costs? We get it – it's a big decision. But don’t stress! upGrad Abroad is here to help you make it work. We’ve got the tools like expense calculator and resources to help you study in Canada without breaking the bank.

Here’s how we help you save:

• Guides & Resources – Access our library of articles on universities, scholarships, and visa processes.
• Scholarships – Find scholarships to reduce your tuition fees.
• Affordable Universities – Discover budget-friendly universities with quality programs.
• Budgeting Tips – Get practical advice on managing your living expenses in Canada.

Want some personalized advice on how to make studying in Canada affordable? Book a 1:1 personalised counselling session with our experts and get all the answers you need!