Your cost of living in Canada depends heavily on the city you choose and your lifestyle. Here's how the major expense categories work so you can budget realistically.
Rent is usually the largest part of any newcomer's budget and varies enormously by city. Large metros like Toronto and Vancouver are markedly more expensive than smaller cities or the Prairies and Atlantic provinces. Sharing accommodation, choosing a smaller city, or living slightly outside the core can significantly reduce costs.
Beyond rent you'll budget for groceries, public transit or a car, a mobile phone plan, internet, and personal spending. Cooking at home rather than eating out is one of the most effective ways students control their budgets. Many cities have student transit discounts.
Healthcare coverage for newcomers varies by province and immigration status. Some provinces cover international students under public plans; others require private health insurance, and many schools offer a plan. Budget for insurance until your public coverage begins.
Because prices change and differ by city, avoid relying on a single national figure. Decide on your destination city first, then build a line-by-line monthly budget. Our advisors can help you sanity-check your plan and align it with study-permit proof-of-funds requirements.
This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Rules, fees and thresholds change frequently and depend on your situation — speak with a GurAmmor expert for advice tailored to you.
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