Cheapest Cities to Live in Canada: Thinking about moving to Canada for studies but worried about expenses? You’re not alone! Canada is a great destination for international students, but cities like Toronto and Vancouver can be very expensive.
The good news? There are many affordable cities in Canada where you can study, live comfortably, and save money. Choosing a budget-friendly city means you’ll have lower rent, transport, and daily expenses, making student life much easier. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 cheapest cities to live in Canada, so you can find the best place that fits your budget and lifestyle. Let’s get started!
Table of contents
- Top 10 Cheapest Cities to Live in Canada
- Moncton
- Sherbrooke
- Abbotsford
- Saint John
- Saguenay
- Thunder Bay
- Trois-Rivières
- Regina
- Lethbridge
- 10. Winnipeg
- Cost of Living in These Affordable Cities
- Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Canada
- How to Find Accommodation in These Cities?
- Tips to Save Money While Living in Canada
- FAQs
Top 10 Cheapest Cities to Live in Canada
If you’re planning to study in Canada, living costs can be a big concern. While cities like Toronto and Vancouver are expensive, many affordable cities offer quality education, good amenities, and a great student experience. Here are the top 10 cheapest cities to live in Canada for students, with details on rent, cost of living, and why they are budget-friendly.
| City | Average Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment) | Cost of Living (Monthly for One Person) | Why It’s Affordable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moncton | CAD 1,000 – 1,200 | CAD 2,000 | Low rent, low food costs |
| Sherbrooke | CAD 850 – 1,100 | CAD 1,900 | Cheaper housing, student-friendly |
| Abbotsford | CAD 1,100 – 1,400 | CAD 2,100 | Affordable utilities, part-time jobs |
| Saint John | CAD 900 – 1,200 | CAD 1,800 | Low transport and living costs |
| Saguenay | CAD 700 – 1,000 | CAD 1,600 | Lowest rent in Canada! |
| Thunder Bay | CAD 800 – 1,100 | CAD 1,700 | Budget-friendly transport and rent |
| Trois-Rivières | CAD 850 – 1,100 | CAD 1,850 | Lower grocery and entertainment costs |
| Regina | CAD 1,000 – 1,300 | CAD 2,000 | Affordable student housing |
| Lethbridge | CAD 1,000 – 1,200 | CAD 1,900 | Good job opportunities, lower rent |
| Winnipeg | CAD 1,100 – 1,400 | CAD 2,200 | Lower utility and healthcare costs |
Moncton
Moncton is one of the most affordable cities in Canada. Known for its low rent and affordable living costs, Moncton is perfect for students. With an average rent of around CAD 1,000, the cost of living is approximately CAD 2,000. The city offers good public transport and affordable food, making it a budget-friendly option for students.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Low rent compared to other Canadian cities.
- Lower grocery and dining costs.
- Reliable and cheap public transport.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 1,000 – 1,200 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 2,000 |
Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke is a student-friendly city in Quebec. Sherbrooke is home to universities offering lower housing costs and a friendly student environment. Rent is around CAD 850, and monthly living costs are CAD 1,900. The city offers affordable public transport and student discounts.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Cheaper housing options.
- Discounts and student-friendly services.
- Low-cost public transport.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 850 – 1,100 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,900 |
Abbotsford
Abbotsford is one of the cheapest cities to live in Canada. This BC city provides affordable rent (CAD 1,100) and a student-friendly atmosphere. The city is close to nature, with many part-time job opportunities and affordable utilities, making it an attractive choice for students.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Cheaper rent than other BC cities.
- Affordable utilities and groceries.
- Good part-time job opportunities.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 1,100 – 1,400 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 2,100 |
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- Best Colleges in Toronto for International Students in 2025
Saint John
Saint John, in New Brunswick, is known for its low living costs and great quality of life. It has a low population, making it less crowded than bigger cities. Saint John offers low rent (CAD 900) and a cost-effective lifestyle. Public transport is cheap, and the city’s slower pace creates a relaxed environment for studying. Monthly living costs are around CAD 1,800.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Low rent and food costs.
- Cheap transport system.
- Many affordable student accommodations.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 900 – 1,200 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,800 |
Saguenay
Saguenay is one of the cheapest cities to live in Canada, with the lowest rental costs. It offers a quiet and peaceful lifestyle, perfect for students who want to focus on their studies. Known for the lowest rent in Canada (CAD 700), Saguenay offers a peaceful environment perfect for students. With a cost of living around CAD 1,600, it is affordable, with low transportation costs and fewer crowds.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Lowest rent in Canada.
- Budget-friendly transport and groceries.
- Small-town charm with good university options.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 700 – 1,000 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,600 |
Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay, in Ontario, is a great option for students looking for the cheapest cities to live in Canada. It has a mix of urban and natural settings, with plenty of parks and outdoor activities. With a mix of urban and outdoor living, Thunder Bay is affordable, with a rent of around CAD 800. Monthly living costs are CAD 1,700, offering budget-friendly transport, groceries, and part-time job opportunities.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Budget-friendly transport and rent.
- Low healthcare and grocery costs.
- Plenty of part-time job opportunities.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 800 – 1,100 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,700 |
Trois-Rivières
Trois-Rivières is one of Quebec’s most affordable cities. It is home to Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, making it a popular choice for students. This Quebec city offers cheap housing (CAD 850) and low living costs (CAD 1,850). Known for its affordable groceries, entertainment, and transport, it’s an ideal choice for students seeking a budget-friendly city.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Cheaper grocery and entertainment costs.
- Affordable student accommodations.
- Great public transport network.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 850 – 1,100 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,850 |
Regina
Regina, the capital of Saskatchewan, is one of the cheapest cities to live in Canada. It offers a low cost of living with high-quality education options. The city is home to the University of Regina, known for its affordable tuition fees. Regina’s low rent (CAD 1,000) and living costs (CAD 2,000) make it a student haven. The city offers affordable healthcare, public transport, and plenty of student housing options.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Plenty of student housing options.
- Cheaper healthcare and transport.
- Many part-time job opportunities.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 1,000 – 1,300 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 2,000 |
Lethbridge
Lethbridge, in Alberta, is a small, affordable city with a big student community. It’s home to the University of Lethbridge, offering excellent education at a lower cost. A small city with great educational opportunities, Lethbridge offers affordable rent (CAD 1,000) and monthly living costs of CAD 1,900. It has good job opportunities and a student-friendly atmosphere.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Good job opportunities.
- Lower rental costs than bigger cities.
- Student-friendly community.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 1,000 – 1,200 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 1,900 |
10. Winnipeg
Winnipeg is one of the cheapest cities to live in Canada, offering a balanced lifestyle with good transport and entertainment options. Known for its low utility and healthcare costs, Winnipeg offers rent of around CAD 1,100. The cost of living is CAD 2,200, with cheap public transport and affordable housing options, making it ideal for students.
Why It’s Affordable:
- Lower utility and healthcare costs.
- Plenty of affordable housing options.
- Low transport and food costs.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | CAD 1,100 – 1,400 |
| Monthly Living Cost | CAD 2,200 |
Cost of Living in These Affordable Cities
When moving to a new city, especially as a student, it’s essential to understand how much you’ll be spending each month. Rent is typically your largest expense, but there are other costs to consider, like food, transport, and utilities.
In this section, I’ve broken down the estimated monthly expenses for students living in the cheapest cities of canada. This will give you a clear idea of what to expect and help you budget wisely. Let’s dive into the details!
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom) | 700 – 1,400 |
| Groceries | 250 – 400 |
| Public Transport | 80 – 120 |
| Utilities | 100 – 200 |
| Internet & Phone | 50 – 100 |
| Entertainment | 100 – 250 |
| Total | 1,600 – 2,200 |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Canada
When it comes to cost of living in Canada, several factors come into play. The cost of living can vary significantly depending on where you live and your lifestyle. By understanding these factors, you’ll be better prepared to manage your expenses while studying. Here are five key factors that can impact the cost of living in Canada:
1. Location: The city or town you choose to live in will have a huge impact on your expenses. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to have higher rent and living costs compared to smaller cities or towns like Winnipeg or Quebec City.
2. Accommodation Type: Rent is often the biggest monthly expense. The cost will depend on the type of accommodation you choose. University dorms may be more expensive but are conveniently located. Alternatively, renting an apartment or sharing a house with roommates can reduce costs, but the price will vary based on the city and neighbourhood.
3. Transportation: Canada has an extensive public transportation system, especially in larger cities. Monthly transit passes, public buses, and subway fares can add up. Using a bike or walking can also reduce transportation costs.
4. Lifestyle and Spending Habits: Your personal spending habits will affect your overall cost of living. If you prefer cooking meals at home rather than eating out, or if you keep a close eye on your budget, you can save a significant amount.
5. Utilities and Internet: Utilities such as heating, electricity, water, and internet are also essential monthly costs. These can vary depending on the size of your accommodation and whether utilities are included in your rent.
Also Read:
How to Find Accommodation in These Cities?
When you’re moving to a new city to study, finding the right accommodation at an affordable price is crucial. Here’s how you can secure budget-friendly accommodation in some of the cheapest cities to live in Canada. By following these steps, you can make sure your living costs stay low, while still having a comfortable and safe place to stay.
- Check University Housing: Many universities in Canada offer affordable on-campus housing for students. These residences are often cheaper than private rentals and are located close to campus, making it convenient for you to attend classes. Make sure to apply early, as spaces can fill up quickly.
- Look on Websites: There are many online platforms such as Fly Homes where you can find listings for rental properties. You can find everything from private rooms to apartments at varying prices. Always check reviews and contact landlords directly for more details.
- Find a Roommate: If you want to save even more, consider sharing accommodation with other students. Roommates can help lower rent and utility costs, as you’ll be splitting the expenses. Look for potential roommates on university notice boards, student Facebook groups, or rental websites.
- Consider Homestays: In a homestay, you live with a local family who rents out a room in their home. This is a great option for international students as it can also help you immerse yourself in Canadian culture. Some homestays include meals, which can save you money on food.
- Explore Off-Campus Apartments: In cities like Moncton, Sherbrooke, and Winnipeg, you’ll find affordable off-campus apartments. While these might be a little further from the university, they are often cheaper than on-campus housing. Be sure to factor in transportation costs and convenience when considering the location of your apartment.
Tips to Save Money While Living in Canada
Living in Canada as a student can be expensive, but there are plenty of smart ways to stretch your budget without sacrificing your quality of life. By planning ahead and making small changes to your routine, you can save a significant amount of money. Here are some practical tips to help you save money while studying abroad:
1. Live in a Shared Apartment: Rent can take up a large chunk of your monthly expenses. To save money, consider sharing an apartment or house with roommates. This can lower your rent by CAD 300–500 per month, depending on the city and apartment size.
2. Use Public Transport: In most Canadian cities, public transportation is both affordable and efficient. Many cities offer student discounts on monthly passes, which can make commuting much cheaper.
3. Buy Groceries in Bulk: Groceries can be a significant part of your budget, but buying in bulk can help you save a lot of money. Stores like Costco, Walmart, and local bulk stores often offer discounts on large quantities of food and household items.
4. Cook at Home: While it’s tempting to eat out, cooking at home is far cheaper. Eating out can cost CAD 15–25 per meal, which adds up quickly. By cooking your own meals, you can save money and eat healthier.
5. Look for Student Discounts: Many stores, cinemas, restaurants, and transport services offer discounts for students. Take advantage of these deals to save money on everything from clothing and food to entertainment and transportation.
Living in Canada doesn’t have to be expensive. By choosing a budget-friendly city like Saguenay, Sherbrooke, or Moncton, you can save on rent, food, and transport. If you’re moving to Canada as a student, plan ahead, find affordable accommodation, and look for part-time work to make your life easier. Canada is welcoming, and you’ll have an amazing experience!
FAQs
The cheapest cities to live in Canada for students are Saskatoon, Regina, Montreal, Halifax, and Windsor. These cities offer budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
Halifax is considered one of the cheapest cities in Canada for students due to its lower tuition fees, good-ranking universities, and large student population. Everything from food to drinks and clothes is budget-friendly, making it an affordable choice for students.
Regina is the second-largest city of Saskatchewan, located in western Canada.
If you’re studying at the University of Montreal, you’re already in Montreal, Quebec. Montreal is a fantastic city for students, known for its amazing atmosphere and many educational institutions.
The starting price for apartments in Montreal is around CAD 900 to CAD 1000. Living costs for international students working part-time are generally less than C$1200 a month.
Yes, cities like Saint John and Thunder Bay have efficient and affordable public transportation systems, which are ideal for students who need to commute daily.
Yes, many universities in the cheapest cities to live in Canada, such as Sherbrooke and Regina, offer affordable student housing options that are convenient and budget-friendly.
Cities like Moncton, Sherbrooke, and Regina offer many part-time job opportunities, especially in retail, hospitality, and local businesses, helping students cover living expenses.
Yes, cities like Moncton, Sherbrooke, and Saint John are known for their safety. These cities are calm, family-friendly, and have a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
Saguenay has the lowest living costs in Canada, with rent as low as CAD 700 per month. It’s perfect for students looking to save while studying in Canada.
This blog was all about the cheapest cities to live in Canada for students. For booking the best accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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