Are you interested in pursuing a Master’s or PhD in Canada but aren’t sure where you can afford to live? Living costs play a significant role in deciding whether to study abroad. Canada isn’t one of the most expensive countries in the world, but it’s not particularly cheap either. While we recommend choosing a university or region that offers the best program for you, it’s also important to research where you can realistically afford to live.
Using crowdsourced data, we have identified the five cheapest Canadian cities for student living. It’s worth noting that the rent prices listed are for one-bedroom apartments. Many students choose to share housing, which can significantly reduce rental costs.
1. Regina : The Cheapest Canadian Cities for Student Living
Regina is the capital of Saskatchewan province. As the commercial center of the region, the city offers shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. You can also enjoy parks, green spaces, and Wascana Lake.
The main university in the area is the University of Regina. The university actively supports the local community, and its fine arts programs enrich the city’s cultural life through music, theater, and dance. If you love nature and culture, Regina could be the right place for you.
Living costs in Regina:
| Item | Price in Regina | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| One-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD $950 | CAD $1,669 |
| One-bedroom apartment (outside city center) | CAD $910 | CAD $1,447 |
| Monthly utilities (electricity, water, gas, etc.) | CAD $245 | CAD $200 |
| Monthly transportation pass | CAD $77 | CAD $100 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CAD $18 | CAD $22 |
2. Saskatoon
Saskatoon, also in Saskatchewan, is the province’s largest city. It has a vibrant student culture, with summer festivals and multiple music and performance venues. Saskatoon is also located along the Yellowhead Highway, which connects the city to other provinces like Alberta and British Columbia.
The main university is the University of Saskatchewan, which is a global leader in water and food security, health, and environmental studies.
Living costs in Saskatoon:
| Item | Price in Saskatoon | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| One-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD $1,381 | CAD $1,669 |
| One-bedroom apartment (outside city center) | CAD $1,032 | CAD $1,447 |
| Monthly utilities | CAD $299 | CAD $200 |
| Monthly transportation pass | CAD $83 | CAD $100 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CAD $20 | CAD $22 |
3. Windsor
Windsor, located in Ontario, is Canada’s southernmost city. Known as the automotive capital of Canada, it’s an excellent choice for students interested in engineering or manufacturing.
University of Windsor is the main university in the area and is home to over 4,000 graduate students. Its programs cover a wide range of subjects, from social justice to international trade.
Living costs in Windsor:
| Item | Price in Windsor | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| One-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD $1,406 | CAD $1,669 |
| One-bedroom apartment (outside city center) | CAD $1,392 | CAD $1,447 |
| Monthly utilities | CAD $209 | CAD $200 |
| Monthly transportation pass | CAD $134 | CAD $100 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CAD $20 | CAD $22 |
4. Québec City
Québec City is the capital of Québec, a predominantly French-speaking province. As the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico, its old city walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also just a short flight from New York, perfect for a weekend getaway.
Three major universities offer graduate programs in Québec City: Laval University, the National Institute of Scientific Research, and the National School of Public Administration. Make sure to check the language of instruction before applying.
Living costs in Québec City:
| Item | Price in Québec City | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| One-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD $1,123 | CAD $1,669 |
| One-bedroom apartment (outside city center) | CAD $953 | CAD $1,447 |
| Monthly utilities | CAD $199 | CAD $200 |
| Monthly transportation pass | CAD $90 | CAD $100 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CAD $25 | CAD $22 |
5. Greater Sudbury
The fifth cheapest Canadian city for students is Greater Sudbury in Ontario. The city is known as the hard rock mining capital of the world and is home to the third-largest crater on Earth. It also has a growing film and television industry, making it ideal for aspiring geologists and filmmakers alike.
The main institution offering graduate programs is Laurentian University, with most courses focusing on education, health, science, or engineering.
Living costs in Greater Sudbury:
| Item | Price in Greater Sudbury | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| One-bedroom apartment (city center) | CAD $1,273 | CAD $1,669 |
| One-bedroom apartment (outside city center) | CAD $1,125 | CAD $1,447 |
| Monthly utilities | CAD $160 | CAD $200 |
| Monthly transportation pass | CAD $88 | CAD $100 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CAD $25 | CAD $22 |
These five cities offer relatively low living costs, making them attractive options for students who want to study in Canada while keeping their expenses manageable.