Planning to study in Canada in 2025-26? One of the most important aspects international students must consider before moving is the cost of living in Canada. While tuition fees are a big part of the budget, living expenses in Canada such as housing, groceries, healthcare, transport and entertainment make up a major share.
On average, an Indian student needs between CAD 18,000 – CAD 22,000 per year (₹12–15 lakh) to manage accommodation, food, health insurance and other expenses. The actual costs vary depending on the city, lifestyle and type of accommodation.
This guide will break down living expenses in Canada in 2025-26, city-wise cost comparisons, tuition fees, visa financial requirements and tips to manage your budget better.
Living Cost in Canada for International Students
The cost of living in Canada is higher than in India but remains more affordable than the USA, UK or Australia. According to Numbeo, an Indian student spends around INR 91,000 per month (~CAD 1,500) excluding rent. With accommodation, the monthly cost can rise to CAD2,500 – 3,500.
Here’s an overview of average monthly expenses in Canada for international students:
| Expenses | Monthly Cost in Canada (CAD) | Annual Cost in Canada (CAD) |
| Tuition Fees (average) | – | CAD 19,186* |
| Student Fees | – | CAD 400 |
| Health Insurance | CAD 70 | CAD 840 |
| Textbooks & Supplies | – | CAD 600 |
| On-campus Rent | CAD 600 | CAD 7,200 |
| Mobile Phone (basic) | CAD 30 | CAD 360 |
| Public Transit Pass | CAD 40 | CAD 480 |
| Groceries & Food | CAD 300 | CAD 3,600 |
| Entertainment/Clothes | CAD 80 | CAD 960 |
| Car Insurance (optional) | – | CAD 1,500 |
| Car Fuel (optional) | CAD 200 | CAD 2,400 |
| Total (Approx.) | CAD 1,320 | CAD 37,526 |
*Average tuition fee varies by university and program.
City-Wise Cost of Living in Canada for International Students (2025–26)
| Canadian City | Monthly Living Expenses (Without Rent) | Approx. Rent (1BHK Apartment) | Total Monthly Cost (Avg.) |
| Toronto | CAD 1,530 (₹94,000) | CAD 1,900 – 2,600 (₹1.2–1.6 Lakh) | CAD 3,400 – 4,100 (₹2–2.5 Lakh) |
| Vancouver | CAD 1,481 (₹91,000) | CAD 1,800 – 2,500 (₹1.1–1.5 Lakh) | CAD 3,200 – 4,000 (₹1.9–2.4 Lakh) |
| Ottawa | CAD 1,477 (₹90,000) | CAD 1,600 – 2,200 (₹1–1.3 Lakh) | CAD 3,000 – 3,700 (₹1.8–2.2 Lakh) |
| Montreal | CAD 1,375 (₹84,000) | CAD 1,300 – 1,900 (₹80k–1.2 Lakh) | CAD 2,700 – 3,300 (₹1.6–2 Lakh) |
| Calgary | CAD 1,591 (₹98,000) | CAD 1,400 – 2,000 (₹85k–1.25 Lakh) | CAD 3,000 – 3,600 (₹1.8–2.1 Lakh) |
Key Insight: Toronto and Vancouver remain the most expensive cities, while Montreal is relatively affordable. Students can save significantly by choosing on-campus housing or shared apartments.
Factors Affecting Cost of Living in Canada
Several factors determine the overall living expenses in Canada for Indian and other international students:
- Housing: Rent is the largest expense. Toronto and Vancouver are expensive, while Quebec and Manitoba are cheaper.
- Food & Groceries: Cooking at home is cost-effective, while eating out regularly can add up.
- Healthcare: Students must purchase private health insurance (CAD 600–1,000 annually).
- Transportation: Public transport passes cost around CAD 80–120/month; bigger cities cost more.
- Other Expenses: Entertainment, books, clothes and personal expenses vary per lifestyle.
City-Wise Cost of Living in Canada (2025-26)
Living costs vary significantly depending on the city. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive cities, while Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec are relatively affordable.
| Canadian City | Average Monthly Cost of Living (CAD) | Highlights |
| Toronto | CAD 1,530 | Highest rents, diverse Indian community |
| Vancouver | CAD 1,481 | Expensive housing, popular student hub |
| Ottawa | CAD 1,477 | Affordable compared to Toronto, safe |
| Montreal | CAD 1,375 | Student-friendly, cheaper rent |
| Calgary | CAD 1,591 | Growing job opportunities, high rent |
Note: Figures exclude rent. Including rent, monthly costs can rise to CAD 2,800–3,500.
Cost of Studying in Canada (Tuition Fees)
Alongside living expenses, international students must also consider tuition fees.
- UG Courses: CAD 15,000 – 25,000 per year
- PG Courses (Masters): CAD 17,000 – 27,000 per year
- Doctoral Programs: CAD 7,000 – 15,000 per year
- Diplomas/Certificates: CAD 10,000 – 20,000 per year
The tuition fee depends on the university, program and location.
Canada Student Visa Financial Requirements (GIC Proof)
When applying for a Canadian student visa, students must show proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Outside Quebec:
- Student alone: CAD 20,635/year
- Student + 1 family member: CAD 25,690/year
- Student + 2 family members: CAD 31,583/year
- In Quebec:
- Student alone: CAD 13,134/year
- Student + 1 family member: CAD 19,264/year
- Student + 2 family members: CAD 21,579/year
This proof of funds is mandatory for a Study Permit (Canada Student Visa).
Scholarships to Manage Living Costs in Canada
To ease the cost of living in Canada, students can apply for scholarships and financial aid. Some popular ones include:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarships
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
- University-specific awards (McGill, Toronto, UBC, etc.)
Scholarships help cover tuition fees and sometimes accommodation, reducing financial pressure.
Money-Saving Tips for Students in Canada
Managing expenses wisely can reduce the high cost of living in Canada:
- Opt for shared apartments or homestays instead of living alone.
- Use public transport student passes instead of taxis.
- Cook meals at home instead of frequently eating out.
- Apply for part-time jobs (20 hours/week allowed).
- Explore scholarships and bursaries offered by Canadian universities.
Conclusion
The average cost of living in Canada ranges from CAD 20,000 – CAD 25,000 annually (₹12–15 lakh) excluding tuition fees. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive cities, while Montreal and Ottawa are more affordable. With scholarships, part-time jobs and smart budgeting, Indian students can comfortably manage their study in Canada.
Explore more:
- Cost of Living in Australia for International Students in 2025-26
- Cost of Living in USA for International Students 2025-26
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average cost of living in Canada for international students in 2025?
The average cost of living in Canada for international students is CAD 20,000 – CAD 25,000 per year (₹12–15 lakh), excluding tuition fees. Costs depend on city, lifestyle, and accommodation type.
2. Is Canada expensive for Indian students?
Yes, Canada is costlier than India but more affordable than the USA or UK. Indian students spend around INR 91,000 per month on food, housing, and other expenses.
3. Which city is the cheapest for international students in Canada?
Cities like Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec are relatively cheaper compared to Toronto and Vancouver, where housing and transport are expensive.
4. How much monthly budget should a student keep for Canada?
Yes. Sydney costs about 20–25% more than Melbourne, especially for housing and transport. Melbourne is considered more student-friendly in terms of budget.
5. Is Toronto more expensive than Vancouver for students?
Yes, Toronto is slightly more expensive than Vancouver due to high rent and living costs. Monthly costs in Toronto can exceed CAD 3,000 including rent.
6. How much money is required for a Canada student visa?
International students must show proof of funds: CAD 20,635/year (outside Quebec) or CAD 13,134/year (in Quebec), excluding tuition fees.
7. Can students work part-time to manage living expenses in Canada?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks, earning around CAD 15–18/hour.
8. Does Canada offer scholarships to cover living expenses?
Yes, scholarships like Vanier CGS, Ontario Graduate Scholarships, and university-specific awards can help cover tuition and reduce living costs.
9. How much does accommodation cost for students in Canada?
Accommodation costs range between CAD 600 – CAD 1,200 per month for on-campus or shared apartments. Homestays may cost slightly higher.
10. What is the cost of groceries in Canada per month?
Students typically spend CAD 250 – CAD 350 per month on groceries. Cooking at home is much cheaper than eating out.
11. How much is health insurance for international students in Canada?
Private health insurance costs around CAD 600 – CAD 1,000 annually. Some provinces include coverage in student fees.
12. How much do textbooks and supplies cost in Canada?
Textbooks and academic supplies cost around CAD 600 – CAD 1,000 per year, depending on the program and university.
13. Is public transportation affordable for students in Canada?
Yes, most cities offer student discounts. A monthly transit pass costs CAD 80–120, making it the cheapest way to travel.
14. What is the total yearly expense for an Indian student in Canada?
Including tuition fees and living costs, Indian students spend INR 20–35 lakh annually depending on the program and city.
15. Can international students live on-campus in Canada?
Yes, many universities provide on-campus dormitories costing around CAD 600–1,000 per month. This includes basic utilities.
Join The Discussion