If you’re a student planning to study in the UK or Canada, it’s important to compare the cost of living in Canada vs UK. Your expenses, like rent, food, and transportation, will affect your student life. To enjoy your time abroad, you’ll need to manage these costs within your budget. Overall, living costs in Canada, including rent, are usually lower than in the UK. By knowing these costs, you can plan your finances and choose the country that fits your budget and lifestyle. Let’s get started!
Table of contents
- Cost of living in Canada vs UK: An Overview
- Average Accommodation Costs in Canada vs UK
- Cost of Transportation in Canada vs UK
- Also Read:
- Cost of Studying in Canada vs UK
- Utility Costs
- Food and Groceries Costs
- Entertainment and Leisure Costs
- Benefits of Living in Canada vs UK
- Tips on saving money in Canada and UK
- FAQS on Cost of Living in Canada vs UK
Cost of living in Canada vs UK: An Overview
The average cost of living in Canada for an individual is approximately CAD 2,989 per month, whereas the average cost of living in the UK is around GBP 1,878 per month according to LivingCost data. Additionally, Canada ranks 15th on the global list of the most expensive countries, while the UK holds the 13th position.
To help you understand the cost of living in Canada vs UK, here’s a detailed breakdown of average monthly expenses for students in both countries. These expenses typically include rent, food, transportation, and other essentials, which can vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
| Expense Category | Approx Cost in Canada | Approx Cost in the UK |
| Cost of living (One person) | CAD 2,989 | GBP 1878 |
| One person rent | CAD 1,784 | GBP 1167 |
| Food expenses | CAD 826 | GBP 438 |
| Transport expenses | CAD 187 | GBP 137 |
Average Accommodation Costs in Canada vs UK
Let’s start with the big one – rent! As a student, rent will likely take up most of your monthly budget. The cost of rent varies between Canada and the UK, depending on the city and type of accommodation. Generally, rent in major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver tends to be higher than in many cities in the UK.
But don’t worry there are the cheapest cities to live in Canada and the cheapest cities to live in the UK where rent and living costs are much lower. Here’s a comparison of the average monthly rent in Canada and the UK to help students understand the cost of living in Canada vs UK.
| Accommodation Type | Approx Price in Canada | Approx Price in UK |
| 1 bedroom apartment in Downtown, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | CAD 1760 | GBP 1198 |
| Cheap 1 bedroom apartment, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | CAD 1527 | GBP 939 |
| 3 bedroom apartment in Downtown, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | CAD 3111 | GBP 2326 |
| Cheap 3 bedroom apartment, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | CAD 2578 | GBP 1707 |
Cost of Transportation in Canada vs UK
Transportation costs in Canada are generally lower than in the UK, especially in smaller cities. Public transport options like buses and trains are more affordable, and in many Canadian cities, you can even get around by biking or walking. In contrast, public transportation in major UK cities like London can be quite expensive, although there are discount options for students.
The table below provides a clear comparison of the costs for local transport tickets, monthly passes, taxi rides, and fuel in both countries. Understanding these differences can help people, especially students or those living abroad, plan their transportation costs better.
| Expense Category | Approx Cost in Canada | Approx Cost in the UK |
| Local transport ticket | CAD 3.74 | GBP 2.68 |
| Monthly ticket for local transport | CAD 123 | GBP 74.2 |
| Taxi ride for 8 kilometres or 5 miles | CAD 24 | GBP 16.9 |
| Gas or petrol per litre | CAD 2 | GBP 1.59 |
Also Read:
Cost of Studying in Canada vs UK
When comparing Canada vs the UK, one of the key factors to consider is the cost of studying in both countries. Generally, studying in the UK is often seen as more affordable than in Canada. Below are the details that will help you understand the average costs a student needs to budget for when studying in Canada and the UK.
Costs for UG and PG Courses in Canada vs UK
In Canada, undergraduate courses usually cost more and are longer than in the UK. For postgraduate courses, both countries are similar in length, but Canada is generally more expensive. Below is a detailed comparison in the table.
| Particulars | Undergraduate course in Canada | Undergraduate course in the UK | Postgraduate course in Canada | Postgraduate course in the UK |
| Tuition fees | CAD 15,700 to CAD 53,538 | GBP 11,400 – GBP 38,000 | CAD 13,742 to CAD 45,800 | GBP 17,000 – GBP 22,000 |
| Duration of course | 4 years | 3 years | 1-2 years | 1-2 years |
Utility Costs
According to the LivingCost website, the basic monthly utility bill for one person in Canada is around CAD 100 to CAD 150. This includes electricity, water, heating, cooling, and garbage. Similarly, in UK, the utility bill for one person can range from GBP 150 to GBP 200, making it slightly higher compared to Canada. Here’s a table showing utility costs in Canada vs UK, which can be especially helpful for the students:
| Utility Type | Approx Cost in Canada | Approx Cost in UK |
| Utility Bill (One person, electricity, heating, water, etc.) | CAD 131 | GBP 144 |
| Internet Plan (50 Mbps+ 1 month unlimited) | CAD 79.1 | GBP 32.8 |
Food and Groceries Costs
When comparing the cost of living in Canada vs the UK, food and grocery expenses play a significant role for students. In the UK, food can be expensive, while in Canada, prices are much more affordable, helping students manage their budgets better.
Additionally, Canada is home to many amazing cafes where students can relax and enjoy delicious coffee. You can check out the amazing cafes in Canada, fancy restaurants in the UK and try some traditional foods in Canada, which offer a taste of the country’s rich food culture. Here you can check a comparison of meal prices in Canada vs the UK:
| Item | Approx Cost in Canada (CAD) | Approx Cost in the UK (GBP) |
| Lunch Menu | 23 | 16.3 |
| Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 | 101 | 65.7 |
| Fast food meal, equiv. McDonald’s | 15 | 7.99 |
However, cooking at home is a great way to save money, eat healthier, and control your meals. To help with your grocery budget, here’s a list of common grocery items and their prices in Canada and the UK
.
| Item | Approx Cost in Canada (CAD) | Approx Cost in the UK (GBP) |
| Milk, 1 L | 3.18 | 1.34 |
| Bread, 0.5 kg | 3.67 | 1.34 |
| Rice, 1 kg | 4.77 | 1.82 |
| Eggs, x12 | 4.98 | 3.33 |
| Cheese, 1 kg | 18.5 | 8.41 |
| Chicken Breast, 1 kg | 17.5 | 7.25 |
| Apples, 1 kg | 5.62 | 2.42 |
| Banana, 1 kg | 2.03 | 1.32 |
| Oranges, 1 kg | 5.28 | 2.4 |
| Tomato, 1 kg | 5.54 | 2.76 |
| Potato, 1 kg | 3.5 | 1.2 |
| Onion, 1 kg | 3.6 | 1.23 |
| Water, 1 L | 1.71 | 0.8 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi, 2 L | 3.11 | 2.38 |
| Cold medicine, 1 week | 14 | 4.95 |
| Hair Shampoo | 6.97 | 4.25 |
| Toilet paper, 4 rolls | 4.05 | 2.32 |
| Toothpaste, 1 tube | 3.4 | 1.86 |
Entertainment and Leisure Costs
As a student in Canada or the UK, it’s not just about paying for rent and groceries—it’s about enjoying your time too! Both countries offer plenty of cultural, recreational, and fun activities, from outdoor adventures to vibrant festivals, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience.
You can explore the amazing parks in Canada, visit museums in Canada with your friends and loved ones and enjoy various attractions and activities in the UK as well, including the biggest theme parks in the UK. Below is a comparison of the approximate costs for miscellaneous items in both countries.
| Item | Approx Cost in Canada (CAD) | Approx Cost in the UK (GBP) |
| Gym Membership (1 month) | 59.30 | 37.9 |
| Cinema Ticket (1 person) | 16.80 | 11.5 |
| Haircut (simple) | 29 | 11.9 |
| Brand Jeans | 82 | 70.1 |
| Brand Sneakers | 131 | 81.2 |
Also Read:
Benefits of Living in Canada vs UK
When comparing life in Canada and the UK, there are a few important factors to consider, like cost of living, healthcare, education, job opportunities, safety, and overall quality of life. Both countries have their own unique benefits, depending on what you’re looking for Here’s a glimpse of the benefits of living in both countries.
Benefits of Living in Canada
- High Quality of Life: Canada consistently ranks high for quality of life due to its excellent healthcare, education, and social services.
- Universal Healthcare: Canada offers universal healthcare to all residents, ensuring access to medical services without the burden of high costs.
- Quality Education: Canada’s education system is highly regarded, and it offers access to world-class universities and colleges.
- Beautiful Natural Landscapes: Canada is known for its stunning landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to beautiful coastlines, providing countless opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Safety and Security: Peaceful country with low crime rates and social stability.
- Cultural Diversity: Welcomes people from all backgrounds and cultures.
- Strong Economy: With a stable economy, Canada offers a wide range of job opportunities and is known for its high standard of living.
- Friendly and Welcoming People: Canadians are known for their politeness, kindness, and willingness to help, making it easy to feel at home.
Benefits of Living in the UK
- High-Quality Education: The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, providing excellent education and opportunities for international students.
- Cultural Diversity: You’ll experience a vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and cuisines.
- Job Opportunities: The UK has a strong economy and offers a variety of job opportunities, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and healthcare.
- Public Transport: The UK has a reliable public transportation system, making it easy to get around the country.
- Rich History and Heritage: With its historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, the UK offers plenty of opportunities to explore and learn.
- Work-Life Balance: Many employers in the UK offer flexible working hours, allowing a good balance between work and personal life.
Tips on saving money in Canada and UK
If you’re a student moving to Canada or the United Kingdom for higher studies, it’s important to learn how to save money. Moving to a new country can bring uncertainties, like tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.. These challenges make it crucial to save money and keep some aside for emergencies. So, how can you manage your finances as an international student? Here are a few tips:
- Create a Budget: Plan your expenses, including tuition, rent, food, and transportation, to keep track of your spending.
- Look for Student Discounts: Take advantage of student deals on transport, food, and entertainment by showing your student ID.
- Choose Affordable Accommodation: Consider shared housing or student residences to save on rent.
- Cook at Home: Save money by preparing your meals instead of eating out regularly.
- Buy Used Textbooks: Purchase second-hand or digital books, or rent textbooks instead of buying new ones.
- Use Public Transportation: Opt for buses, trains, or trams instead of taxis or rideshares to save on travel costs.
- Limit Non-Essential Spending: Cut back on unnecessary luxuries like shopping or expensive coffee.
- Work Part-Time: If your student visa allows, get a part-time job to earn extra money and cover living expenses.
FAQS on Cost of Living in Canada vs UK
The average cost of living in Canada for an individual is approximately CAD 2,989 per month, whereas the average cost of living in the UK is around GBP 1878 per month according to LivingCost data.
The cost of living can vary based on the city, but in general, living in Canada can be slightly more affordable than in the UK, especially when it comes to rent. However, both countries have their own unique expenses, so it’s important to compare specific areas and lifestyle choices.
Moving to Canada can be a great choice for many people. It offers a high quality of life, beautiful natural scenery, and a relaxed way of living. Canada also provides good job opportunities, healthcare services, and a welcoming, multicultural community.
Salaries in Canada and the UK can be similar, but they often depend on the industry and location. Generally, salaries in Canada may be higher for certain jobs, but this can be offset by the higher cost of living in some Canadian cities.
It depends on your career field and personal preferences. The UK has a more established job market in finance, law, and tech, while Canada offers great opportunities in healthcare, engineering, and natural resources. Both countries have strong economies and good work-life balance options.
Both Canada and the UK are popular study destinations, but Canada is often considered more affordable, with lower tuition fees and living costs. The UK, however, offers a rich historical and cultural experience, with many top-ranked universities.
Canada experiences a wide range of climates depending on the region, from cold winters with heavy snow in the north to mild temperatures on the west coast. The UK has a more temperate climate, with mild winters and cool, wet summers.
The UK has an extensive public transportation system, especially in major cities like London, with trains, buses, and the famous Tube. In Canada, public transport is available in large cities, but smaller towns and rural areas may not have as good access, making a car necessary for many.
Housing costs vary widely in both countries. In Canada, cities like Vancouver and Toronto are known for their high housing prices. Similarly, the UK, particularly London, has high property prices, and renting can be expensive, but smaller towns may offer more affordable housing.
Buying a house can be easier in Canada for first-time buyers, especially in areas outside major cities where property prices are more affordable. In the UK, property prices in London and other major cities can be very high, making it more challenging for first-time buyers to enter the housing market.
Ultimately, the cost of living in Canada vs UK depends on various factors, such as the city you choose to live in, your lifestyle, and how well you manage your finances. Canada may offer more affordable living options while the UK can be more expensive. Understanding the cost differences can help you choose the right country based on your budget and lifestyle as a student.
Hope you liked reading our blog about the Cost of Living in Canada vs UK. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
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