Canada’s provinces offer international students various options to pursue higher education in universities, colleges, technical institutes, or research institutes. Knowing the cost of living in each province can help you when budgeting and planning your study and work schedule. In order to apply for a study permit, a potential international student must show that he or she has the financial capacity to cover living costs in addition to tuition.
The table below is a guideline of a student’s monthly living expenses in each Canadian province. Keep in mind the cost of living can vary, particularly as it concerns urban and rural living.
| PROVINCE | ACCOMMODATION (OFF CAMPUS, SINGLE) | FOOD | PUBLIC TRANSIT | EXTRA (PHONE BILL, INTERNET LAUNDRY, ENTERTAINMENT, CLOTHING) | TOTAL (APPROX.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta | $550 | $250 | $86 (Edmonton) | $530 | $1,416 |
| British Columbia | $730 | $300 | $91 (Central Vancouver) | $530 | $1,726 |
| Manitoba | $700 | $300 | $70 (Winnipeg) | $400-500 | $1,510-$1,550 |
| New Brunswick | $400 | $300 | $40 (Fredericton) | $490 | $1,230 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $600-$750 | $350 | $68-70 (St. John’s) | $500 | $1,518-$1,660 |
| Nova Scotia | $758-$1000 | $250-300 | $70 (Halifax) | $510 | $1,400 |
| Ontario | $957-1132 | $200-425 | $116.75 (Toronto) | $422-450 | $1,696-$2,124 |
| Prince Edward Island | $600 | $250 | $40 (Charlottetown) | $510 | $1,400 |
| Quebec | $550 | $200 | $49.75 (Montreal) | $510 | $1,442.75 |
| Saskatchewan | $500 | $300 | $72 (Regina) | $500 | $1,372 |
