Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students in 2024

Thinking about studying in Canada? It's a fantastic choice! The cost of living in Canada for international students is generally cheaper than in other English-speaking countries like the UK, Australia, and the USA. You'll enjoy a diverse and vibrant lifestyle while getting a top-notch education. To live comfortably, students should budget around CAD 20,635 annually for living expenses, excluding tuition and airfare.

Canadian universities provide estimates to help you plan. Make sure you have sufficient funds to study and live in Canada, as required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

What Are Key Factors Affecting Cost of Living in Canada?

Once a student has decided to study in Canada, multiple factors affect the cost of living in Canada. Major factors are as follows:-

1. Based on Educational Institutions

The cost of living at each college depends on the university a student plans to attend. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver, which house some top universities, tend to have higher living costs than smaller cities.

2. Big Suburban Areas vs Cities

Many students prefer on-campus housing, which might not always be the most affordable option but is often the most convenient. In Canada, Vancouver and Toronto are among the most expensive cities to live in, with high housing costs due to the scarcity of affordable housing.

3. Type of Accommodation

On-campus housing might be convenient but more expensive than shared off-campus apartments. Renting a single apartment in city centers like Toronto can cost significantly more than shared apartments in suburban areas.

4. Lifestyle and Spending Habits

Eating out frequently, traveling, and entertainment can increase living costs. Cooking at home and using public transportation can help reduce expenses.

5. Transportation Costs

Cities with extensive public transit systems, like Toronto and Vancouver, can offer more affordable travel options than those requiring personal vehicles. Monthly transit passes can be an economical option for students.

6. Food and Grocery Expenses

Larger cities might have higher grocery prices than smaller towns. Students should budget for groceries, considering dietary preferences and eating habits.

7. Healthcare and Insurance

International students are required to have health insurance, which can vary in cost. Some provinces provide health coverage to international students, which can reduce costs.

8. Miscellaneous Expenses

Other expenses like clothing, personal care, and entertainment also affect the cost of living. These can vary widely based on personal preferences and lifestyle choices.

Including these factors in your planning can help manage your average cost of living in Canada and ensure a smoother transition into student life.

What are Living Expenses for Specific Group of People?

Living in Canada comes with different costs depending on your lifestyle and family size. Let’s explore how much it typically costs for various groups, including international students, families, and expatriates.

How Much Does It Cost Indian & Other International Students to Live in Canada

For Indian and other international students, managing the cost of living in Canada involves balancing tuition fees with everyday expenses. Here’s a rough estimate of monthly costs:-

Expense	Monthly Cost*
Accommodation	CAD 1,000 - 2,000
Food and Groceries	CAD 300 - 500
Transportation	CAD 100 - 150
Utilities and Internet	CAD 150 - 200
Personal Expenses	CAD 100 - 200
Total	CAD 1,650 - 3,050

These estimates help you understand the cost of living in Canada for international students and plan accordingly.

What are Costs of Raising a Family in Canada?

Raising a family in Canada involves various expenses, such as housing, childcare, and schooling. Here’s what you might expect to spend monthly:-

Expense	Monthly Cost*
Accommodation (3-bedroom)	CAD 2,000 - 3,500
Food and Groceries	CAD 800 - 1,000
Childcare/School Fees	CAD 1,000 - 1,500 per child
Transportation	CAD 200 - 400
Utilities and Internet	CAD 200 - 300
Healthcare and Insurance	CAD 150 - 300
Personal and Leisure Activities	CAD 200 - 400
Total	CAD 4,350 - 7,000

These figures give a clear picture of the cost of living in Canada for an Indian family or any expatriate family.

What Expenses Should Expatriates and Professionals Expect?

Expatriates and professionals moving to Canada, whether with a spouse or parents, need to consider several costs. Here’s a breakdown:-

Expense	Monthly Cost*
Accommodation (2-bedroom)	CAD 1,500 - 2,500
Food and Groceries	CAD 400 - 800
Transportation	CAD 150 - 300
Utilities and Internet	CAD 150 - 250
Healthcare and Insurance	CAD 150 - 300
Personal Expenses	CAD 200 - 400
Total	CAD 2,550 - 4,550

Understanding these expenses gives expatriates a realistic view of the cost of living in Canada per month for professionals and their families.

Detailed Analysis of Monthly Cost Components in Canada

You must set aside money for other day-to-day and unavoidable expenses and be prepared for recurring costs such as housing and accommodations, food and groceries, travel health insurance, transportation, clothing, and entertainment.

To manage the cost of living in Canada for international students planning to study abroad, apply for an International Student Identification Card upon reaching Canada for additional benefits. This can help reduce the monthly expenses in Canada for a single person with rent through various student discounts.

How Much Does Housing Cost in Canada

Housing costs in Canada vary widely based on the city and type of accommodation. Here’s a detailed look at the living cost in Canada regarding housing.

City-Wise Average Rentals in Canada

Housing costs can differ significantly from one city to another. Below are the average monthly rental costs for 10 major cities in Canada.

City	1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)	1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Center)
Toronto	CAD 2,300	CAD 1,800
Vancouver	CAD 2,500	CAD 1,900
Montreal	CAD 1,500	CAD 1,200
Ottawa	CAD 1,700	CAD 1,300
Calgary	CAD 1,600	CAD 1,200
Edmonton	CAD 1,500	CAD 1,100
Winnipeg	CAD 1,400	CAD 1,100
Halifax	CAD 1,600	CAD 1,200
Quebec City	CAD 1,300	CAD 1,000
Hamilton	CAD 1,700	CAD 1,300

How Do Costs Compare Between City Centers and Outskirts

Housing costs are generally higher in city centers compared to the outskirts. The table below shows the living expenses in Canada for housing in city centers versus the outskirts.

City	City Center	Outskirts	Difference
Toronto	CAD 2,300	CAD 1,800	CAD 500
Vancouver	CAD 2,500	CAD 1,900	CAD 600
Montreal	CAD 1,500	CAD 1,200	CAD 300
Ottawa	CAD 1,700	CAD 1,300	CAD 400
Calgary	CAD 1,600	CAD 1,200	CAD 400

What are Costs of Buying Property in Major Cities?

Buying property in major Canadian cities can be quite expensive. Below is an overview of the cost of living in Canada for Indian students and others looking to purchase property.

City	Price per Square Meter (City Center)	Price per Square Meter (Outside Center)
Toronto	CAD 12,000	CAD 8,500
Vancouver	CAD 13,000	CAD 9,000
Montreal	CAD 6,000	CAD 4,000
Ottawa	CAD 7,000	CAD 5,000
Calgary	CAD 6,500	CAD 4,500

What Are Typical Food and Grocery Costs in Canada?

Food and grocery costs are an important part of the cost of living in Canada. Here’s a detailed look at these expenses.

What Are Typical Expenses for Dining Out vs Home Cooking in Canada?

Dining out in Canada can vary widely based on the type of restaurant and location. Here's an overview of typical dining-out expenses:-

Expense	Cost*
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant	CAD 25.00
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course	CAD 100.00
McMeal at McDonald's (or Equivalent Combo Meal)	CAD 15.00
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)	CAD 8.00

Cooking at home can be more economical. Here are typical grocery costs:-

Grocery Item	Cost*
Milk (1 gallon)	CAD 11.10
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (1 lb)	CAD 3.31
Rice (1 lb)	CAD 2.32
Eggs (12)	CAD 4.76
Chicken Fillets (1 lb)	CAD 7.64
Beef Round (1 lb)	CAD 9.06
Apples (1 lb)	CAD 2.61
Banana (1 lb)	CAD 0.89

How Do Costs of Basic Groceries Vary Across Major Cities

The cost of basic groceries can vary significantly across major Canadian cities. Here are some examples:-

City	Milk (1 gallon)	Bread (1 lb)	Eggs (12)	Chicken Fillets (1 lb)
Toronto	CAD 11.00	CAD 3.50	CAD 4.50	CAD 8.00
Vancouver	CAD 11.50	CAD 3.60	CAD 4.80	CAD 8.20
Montreal	CAD 10.90	CAD 3.40	CAD 4.70	CAD 7.80
Ottawa	CAD 11.30	CAD 3.45	CAD 4.75	CAD 8.10
Calgary	CAD 11.20	CAD 3.35	CAD 4.60	CAD 7.90
Edmonton	CAD 10.80	CAD 3.30	CAD 4.55	CAD 7.70
Winnipeg	CAD 10.70	CAD 3.25	CAD 4.50	CAD 7.60
Halifax	CAD 10.60	CAD 3.20	CAD 4.45	CAD 7.50
Quebec City	CAD 10.50	CAD 3.15	CAD 4.40	CAD 7.40
Hamilton	CAD 11.00	CAD 3.50	CAD 4.50	CAD 8.00

What are Education Costs in Canada?

Thinking about studying in Canada? It’s important to understand the tuition fees, which can vary widely based on the university and program. Let’s break down the education costs for international students.

What are University Tuition Fees in Canada?

Tuition fees in Canada can differ significantly depending on your study level and institution.

Tuition Costs for Undergraduate Courses in Canada

For undergraduate programs, you can expect tuition fees for international students to range from CAD 8,000 to CAD 60,000 per year. Here are some examples:-

• McGill University: CAD 20,483 – 41,000 per year
• McMaster University: CAD 40,318 – 45,703 per year
• University of British Columbia: CAD 41,595 – 44,942 per year
• University of Toronto: CAD 43,620 – 62,580 per year

Tuition Costs For Postgraduate Courses in Canada

Postgraduate programs typically cost between CAD 4,000 and CAD 30,000 per year. Here are some typical fees:-

• McGill University: CAD 17,708 – 28,362 per year
• McMaster University: CAD 6,307 – 17,096 per year
• University of British Columbia: CAD 9,500 per year
• University of Toronto: CAD 6,210 – 45,310 per year

Average Tuition Fees in Popular Universities in Canada

University	Undergraduate Tuition	Postgraduate Tuition
McGill University	CAD 20,483 – 41,000	CAD 17,708 – 28,362
McMaster University	CAD 40,318 – 45,703	CAD 6,307 – 17,096
University of British Columbia	CAD 41,595 – 44,942	CAD 9,500
University of Toronto	CAD 43,620 – 62,580	CAD 6,210 – 45,310
University of Calgary	CAD 12,000 – 18,000	CAD 4,319
Simon Fraser University	CAD 27,000 – 36,000	CAD 6,075
University of Alberta	CAD 29,500 – 38,000	CAD 5,590

Source: University website

How Do Education Costs Compare Across Major Cities

Education costs can also vary by city due to different living expenses and institutional fees. Universities in larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver generally have higher tuition fees than those in smaller cities or towns. This impacts the average cost of living in Canada, as larger cities tend to have higher living costs, which include accommodation, food, and other day-to-day expenses.

Understanding these costs helps you manage your budget better and gives you a clear picture of the cost of living in Canada per month. 

What are Transportation Costs in Canada?

Transportation is a key component of the cost of living in Canada. Here’s a detailed look at public transportation costs and the expenses associated with owning a vehicle.

What Are Costs of Public Transportation in Canada?

Public transportation costs differ depending on the city. Here are typical costs for some major Canadian cities:-

City	One-Way Ticket	Monthly Pass
Toronto	CAD 3.50	CAD 156.00
Vancouver	CAD 3.00	CAD 120.00
Montreal	CAD 3.75	CAD 94.00
Ottawa	CAD 3.55	CAD 122.00
Calgary	CAD 3.40	CAD 112.00
Edmonton	CAD 3.25	CAD 100.00
Winnipeg	CAD 3.00	CAD 100.00
Halifax	CAD 2.75	CAD 82.50
Quebec City	CAD 3.75	CAD 94.50
Hamilton	CAD 3.25	CAD 105.00

What Are Costs Associated with Owning a Vehicle?

Owning a vehicle involves various recurring costs, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown:-

Expense	Cost
Gasoline (1 gallon)	CAD 5.9
Monthly Car Insurance	CAD 150.00 - 250.00
Maintenance (per year)	CAD 500.00 - 1,000.00
New Car (Toyota Corolla Sedan)	CAD 27,459.76
New Car (Volkswagen Golf)	CAD 33,978.00

Source: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Canada

These tables provide a comprehensive overview of transportation costs, which is a crucial part of understanding the average monthly cost of living in Canada.

How Much Do Utilities and Internet Cost

Paying for utilities and internet is an important part of managing your average cost of living in Canada. Here's what you can expect for these expenses:

Utilities

The cost of basic utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection, can vary depending on the size of your apartment and the city you live in. Here are the average costs for utilities in major Canadian cities:-

City	Basic Utilities (915 sq ft apartment) (CAD)
Toronto	CAD 210.00
Vancouver	CAD 144.43
Montreal	CAD 122.67
Ottawa	CAD 179.35
Calgary	CAD 178.87
Edmonton	CAD 179.00
Winnipeg	CAD 143.00
Halifax	CAD 262.77
Quebec City	CAD 156.91
Hamilton	CAD 157.00

Internet

The cost of internet service, which typically includes unlimited data with a speed of 60 Mbps or more, also varies by city:-

City	Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) (CAD)
Toronto	CAD 78.69
Vancouver	CAD 78.69
Montreal	CAD 60.00
Ottawa	CAD 75.00
Calgary	CAD 82.33
Edmonton	CAD 80.69
Winnipeg	CAD 65.00
Halifax	CAD 105.80
Quebec City	CAD 70.26
Hamilton	CAD 80.00

These costs are a critical part of the monthly expenses in Canada for a single person with rent, and understanding them can help you manage your budget more effectively.

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost for Students in Canada

Health insurance is a mandatory expense for international students in Canada. The cost can vary depending on the province and the specific insurance plan. On average, health insurance for international students ranges from CAD 600 to CAD 900 per year. Some provinces, like British Columbia and Alberta, offer health coverage to international students through provincial health plans. This is an important consideration when comparing the cost of living in Australia vs Canada or the cost of living in Canada vs US.

What Are Additional Healthcare Expenses?

In addition to health insurance, students should budget for other healthcare expenses that their insurance plans might not cover. Additional expenses include dental care, vision care, and over-the-counter medications. Here’s a look at some typical costs:-

Healthcare Service	Average Cost (CAD)
Dental Cleaning	CAD 100 - 200
Eye Exam	CAD 100 - 150
Prescription Medications	CAD 20 - 50 per month
Over-the-Counter Medications	CAD 10 - 30 per month

These healthcare costs are a vital part of the living expenses in Canada and should be factored into your budget to manage the average monthly cost of living in Canada effectively.

How Much Does Personal Care and Recreation Cost in Canada

Managing personal care and recreational activities is a significant part of living in Canada. Here's an overview of what you can expect to spend on these necessities and activities.

What Are Costs for Gym Memberships, Entertainment, and Leisure Activities?

Staying fit and entertained comes with its own expenses, which can vary across cities. Here are some typical costs:-

Service	Average Cost
Gym Membership (Monthly)	CAD 50 - 100
Movie Ticket	CAD 13 - 20
Tennis Court Rental (1 hr)	CAD 20 - 40

How Much Do Personal Care Items and Services Cost

Personal care items and services are essential for daily living and maintaining hygiene. Here are some average costs you might encounter:-

Item/Service	Average Cost
Haircut (Men)	CAD 20 - 50
Shampoo (400 ml)	CAD 5 - 10
Toothpaste (1 tube)	CAD 2 - 4
Laundry Detergent (3 l)	CAD 10 - 15
Deodorant (50 ml)	CAD 4 - 8

Understanding these expenses can help you plan better and manage your finances effectively, contributing to a realistic view of the monthly expenses in Canada for a single person with rent. It also allows for a better comparison of the cost of living in Canada vs UK and other countries.

Living in Canada: Things to Know

1. Vast Expanse

Canada is the world's second-largest country, covering nearly ten million square kilometers, offering diverse and expansive landscapes.

2. Top-Tier Cities

Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary rank among the world's most livable, boasting excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

3. Cultural Mosaic

With over 21.9% of its population born abroad, Canada is a diverse and welcoming nation, home to nearly 200 nationalities.

4. Bilingual Nation

Canada has two official languages, English and French, with Quebec predominantly speaking French.

5. Robust Healthcare

Canada’s tax-funded Medicare system provides free essential medical services, with private options to avoid long wait times.

6. Cold Winters

Except for British Columbia's west coast, most of Canada experiences extremely cold winters, with temperatures often dropping below zero.

7. High-Quality Education

Canada excels in education, with over 56% of adults holding a degree, ranking first in the OECD’s 2017 education levels.

8. Unique Slang

Canadian English includes distinctive slang like "eh," "toque" (beanie), "loonie" ($1 coin), and "toonie" ($2 coin), adding to its cultural charm.

10 Easy Tips for Managing Living Costs in Canada

Students should comprehend that it is essential to keep in mind that savings will always get them through. Students need pragmatic planning to avoid debt. Here are a few steps that can help students to monthly expenses in Canada:-

1. Make a Spending Plan

Allocate your budget for essentials like clothing, groceries, and entertainment. Stick to the plan and prioritize saving.

2. Apply for Scholarships

Look for scholarships offered to international students on university websites.

3. Outline Priorities

List necessary expenses and cut out non-essential purchases.

4. Use Public Transit

Opt for public transit over cabs or Ubers, and check for student discounts.

5. Part-Time Jobs

Take up part-time jobs allowed by your student visa, both on-campus and off-campus, after six months of study.

6. Student Card

Use your student card to get discounts at bookstores, departmental stores, and other places.

7. Cook at Home

Eating out can be expensive. Cooking at home saves money and can be healthier.

8. Buy Used Textbooks

Purchase used or digital textbooks instead of new ones to save on costs.

9. Join Free Events

Participate in free or low-cost events and activities your university or community organizes.

10. Monitor Utility Usage

Be mindful of your electricity, heating, and water usage to keep utility bills low.

These tips will help you manage the cost of living in Canada more effectively and make your stay more affordable.

Canada vs Other Countries: Cost of Living Comparison

Thinking about where to study? It's smart to compare the cost of living in different countries before deciding. Here's a look at how Canada stacks up against other popular study destinations when it comes to accommodation, tuition fees, and living expenses:-

Country	Accommodation (Monthly Rent, 1-Bedroom Apartment)	Education (Annual Tuition Fees)	Living Expenses (Monthly)
Canada	CAD 1,300 - 2,500	CAD 20,000 - 60,000	CAD 1,200 - 2,000
Australia	AUD 1,500 - 3,000	AUD 20,000 - 45,000	AUD 1,200 - 2,000
United States	USD 1,200 - 2,500	USD 25,000 - 50,000	USD 1,000 - 2,000
United Kingdom	GBP 1,000 - 2,000	GBP 15,000 - 35,000	GBP 1,000 - 1,800
India	INR 10,000 - 25,000	INR 100,000 - 1,10,000	INR 20,000 - 50,000

All Data has been take from: Numbeo

Comparing the cost of living in Canada vs US or cost of living in Canada vs India can help get a clear picture of where your money goes the furthest. Knowing these costs upfront can help you budget better and decide what's best for your studies and lifestyle.

Country-Wise Cost of Living Guides:-
Cost of Living in Australia	Cost of Living in Ireland	Cost of Living in Germany
Cost of Living in Europe	Cost of Living in United Kingdom	Cost of Living Singapore
Cost of Living in France	Cost of Living in Netherlands	Cost of Living in Switzerland
Cost of Living in Spain	Cost of Living in Quebec	Cost of Living in Dublin

Conclusion

The cost of living in Canada is a significant consideration for both residents and newcomers. While major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have higher living costs, smaller cities and provinces like New Brunswick and Saskatchewan offer more affordable options. Knowing these differences helps you plan your budget effectively. Tailoring your budget to your needs will make your transition smoother and your experience more enjoyable. Take the time to learn about these expenses—your future self will thank you!