Introduction:
Dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about the high costs? Canada is renowned for its world-class education, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes, making it a top destination for international students. However, the expense of living and studying in some of the country’s more popular cities can be a concern for many. The good news is that there are plenty of affordable cities in Canada where you can receive a high-quality education without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 cheapest places to live in Canada that offer excellent academic opportunities, vibrant student communities, and a lower cost of living. Whether you’re aiming to pursue a degree, diploma, or certificate program, these cities will allow you to focus on your studies and experience Canadian culture without the financial strain.
1. Calgary, Alberta
Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, is a dynamic and vibrant destination known for its educational institutions and proximity to world-class skiing resorts. Despite its modern metropolis status, Calgary is considered a cheap city in Canada, especially when compared to other major cities. This makes it an ideal choice for students who want to study in Canada without spending too much.
Cost of Living in Calgary
Living in Calgary is relatively affordable. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 800 (Minimum monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment)
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 150
- Utilities: CAD 250
- Miscellaneous: CAD 160
- Insurance: CAD 68
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,550 per month for a single person without rent (Source: Numbeo).
Part-Time Work Opportunities
For international students looking to support themselves while studying, Calgary offers competitive part-time work opportunities. The average hourly salary for part-time student jobs is approximately CAD 27, making it a viable option to manage living expenses in this affordable city in Canada.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Calgary
Calgary is home to several top-tier companies that provide excellent job opportunities for both students and graduates. According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Calgary include:
- University of Calgary
- TC Energy
- Canadian Natural
- Husky Energy
- Alberta Health Services
- McDonald’s
- Amazon
- Nutrien
- Cenovus
- ATB Financial
Top 5 Universities in Calgary (QS 2025 Rankings)
Calgary is renowned for its educational institutions, which are recognized both nationally and internationally. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Calgary are:
- University of Calgary : A leading research university with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Mount Royal University: Known for its strong emphasis on teaching and student experience.
- SAIT Polytechnic: Offers practical, hands-on education in various fields, particularly in technology and trades.
- Ambrose University: A Christian liberal arts university offering a variety of undergraduate programs.
- St. Mary’s University: A small, Catholic university known for its personalized learning environment and strong community focus.
Conclusion
Calgary is not just a hub for education but also a city that offers a vibrant lifestyle and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re drawn by its top-ranked universities, affordable living costs, or the thrill of nearby skiing adventures, Calgary provides a welcoming environment for students from around the world.
2. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, is one of the cheapest cities in Canada to live in, making it an attractive option for students seeking quality education. Known for its friendly community and vibrant arts scene, Winnipeg offers a unique blend of academic opportunities and affordability.
Cost of Living in Winnipeg
Winnipeg stands out as one of the cheapest places to live in Canada when considering rent and daily expenses. Here’s a breakdown:
- Housing: CAD 800
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 100
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 60
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,400 per month for a single person without rent.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
For international students, Winnipeg offers numerous part-time job opportunities with an average hourly salary of around CAD 23. This allows students to manage their expenses while gaining valuable work experience in a diverse job market.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Winnipeg
Winnipeg hosts several leading companies that provide employment opportunities for students and graduates. According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Winnipeg include:
- University of Manitoba
- Great-West Life Assurance Company
- Manitoba Hydro
- Cargill
- Boeing Canada Operations
- Price Industries
- Bell MTS
- SkipTheDishes
- Canadian National Railway (CN)
- Manitoba Public Insurance
Top 5 Universities in Winnipeg (QS 2025 Rankings)
Winnipeg is home to some of Canada’s top universities, recognized for their academic excellence and student support. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Winnipeg are:
- University of Manitoba: Manitoba’s largest and oldest university, known for its strong research programs and diverse student body.
- University of Winnipeg: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on liberal arts and sciences.
- Red River College Polytechnic: A leading institution for hands-on technical and trades education.
- Canadian Mennonite University: A Christian university offering programs in arts, science, and music, with a focus on community and social justice.
- Booth University College: Affiliated with The Salvation Army, offering a unique blend of social work, business, and humanities programs.
Conclusion
Winnipeg stands out as a budget-friendly city that doesn’t compromise on the quality of education. With affordable living costs, excellent part-time job opportunities, and top-ranked universities, Winnipeg is an ideal choice for students looking to experience Canadian education in a welcoming and culturally vibrant city. Whether you’re pursuing academic excellence or seeking to immerse yourself in a dynamic cultural environment, Winnipeg has something to offer every student.
3. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a vibrant city known for its rich maritime history and a thriving student community. Halifax is an affordable city, especially for Canada students, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to study in Canada.
Cost of Living in Halifax
Halifax is considered one of the most affordable cities in Canada, offering a balanced lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown:
- Housing: CAD 850
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 85
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 65
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,400 per month for a single person without rent.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Students can find various part-time jobs, with an average hourly salary of around CAD 20, helping to offset the cost of living in this affordable city in Canada.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Halifax
- Dalhousie University
- IBM Canada
- Scotiabank
- Nova Scotia Health Authority
- CIBC
- Clearwater Seafoods
- Bell Aliant
- RBC Royal Bank
- Hatch Ltd.
- Atlantic Superstore
Top 5 Universities in Halifax (QS 2025 Rankings)
- Dalhousie University: Known for strong research programs.
- Saint Mary’s University: Focus on business, science, and liberal arts.
- Mount Saint Vincent University: Emphasizes teaching and community engagement.
- University of King’s College: Historic institution with a focus on liberal arts.
- NSCAD University: Leading institution in fine arts and design.
Conclusion
Canada offers a wide array of cities that combine affordability with high-quality education. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest city in Canada or exploring the affordable house in Canada options, cities like Calgary, Winnipeg, and Halifax stand out. These cities provide excellent opportunities for students to study in Canada without the heavy financial burden, making them ideal for international students looking to experience the best of Canadian education and culture.
4. Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is one of Canada’s most culturally rich and vibrant cities, known for its historic charm, unique architecture, and lively arts scene. As the largest city in Quebec, Montreal combines European elegance with North American energy, making it a dynamic place to live and study. Despite being a major metropolis, Montreal offers a relatively affordable cost of living, especially for students seeking high-quality education without breaking the bank.
Cost of Living in Montreal
Montreal’s affordability is one of the key reasons it’s a popular choice for students. Compared to other large Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Montreal’s living costs are significantly lower, particularly in areas such as rent and transportation. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses for students:
- Housing: CAD 1,300
- Food: CAD 300-500
- Transportation: CAD 220
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 41
Average Cost of Living: CAD 2,211 – CAD 2,411 per month
Part-Time Work Opportunities
For international students, Montreal offers a wide range of part-time job opportunities. The city’s strong economy and diverse industries provide numerous options, with average hourly wages ranging from CAD 14 to CAD 20, depending on the job and experience level.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Montreal
According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Montreal include:
- Bombardier Inc
- National Bank of Canada
- Bell Canada
- CAE Inc
- Air Canada
- Ubisoft Montreal
- Saputo Inc
- Hydro-Québec
- Desjardins Group
- Concordia University
Top 5 Universities in Montreal (QS 2025 Rankings)
Montreal is home to some of Canada’s most prestigious universities, renowned for their academic excellence and vibrant student communities. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Montreal are:
- McGill University: One of Canada’s top universities, renowned for its research programs and diverse student body.
- Université de Montréal: A leading French-language university known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation.
- Concordia University: Offers a wide range of programs with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and experiential learning.
- École Polytechnique de Montreal: A top engineering school with a strong emphasis on technical education and research.
- HEC Montréal: A premier business school offering programs in management, finance, and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
Montreal stands out as one of the best options for students looking to combine high-quality education with affordability. Its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and diverse student population make it an exciting and welcoming place to study. Whether you’re drawn to its world-renowned universities or the opportunity to immerse yourself in a bilingual environment, Montreal offers a unique and enriching experience for international students. The city’s affordability and diverse job market also provide ample opportunities for students to support themselves while pursuing their academic goals, making Montreal an ideal choice for those seeking to study in Canada.
5. Edmonton, Alberta
Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, large student population, and affordable living costs. It is a cheap city in Canada to live in, especially for students, making it an excellent option for those looking to study in Canada on a budget.
Cost of Living in Edmonton
Edmonton offers a lower cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities, which is why it’s considered one of the cheapest cities in Canada to live in. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 900
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 100
- Utilities: CAD 250
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 70
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,620 per month for a single person without rent.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Students in Edmonton can find various part-time job opportunities with competitive wages, averaging around CAD 24 per hour. This allows students to support themselves while studying and living in one of Canada’s most affordable cities.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Edmonton
Edmonton hosts several prominent companies providing employment opportunities for students and graduates. According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Edmonton include:
- University of Alberta
- Alberta Health Services
- City of Edmonton
- Stantec
- ATCO
- Enbridge
- PCL Construction
- Canadian National Railway (CN)
- TELUS
- Servus Credit Union
Top 5 Universities in Edmonton (QS 2025 Rankings)
Edmonton is home to some of Alberta’s top universities, recognized for their academic excellence and research opportunities. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Edmonton are:
- University of Alberta: A leading research-intensive institution with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- MacEwan University: Known for its emphasis on teaching excellence and small class sizes.
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT): Offers practical, hands-on education in various fields, particularly in technology and trades.
- Concordia University of Edmonton: A small university offering a liberal arts and sciences education with a strong focus on student success.
- King’s University: A Christian liberal arts university known for its community engagement and interdisciplinary programs.
Conclusion
Edmonton offers a balanced mix of affordability, quality education, and vibrant city life. Its relatively low cost of living, combined with excellent academic institutions and diverse employment opportunities, makes it a popular choice for international students looking to study in Canada. Whether you’re interested in pursuing research at the University of Alberta or gaining practical skills at NAIT, Edmonton provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
6. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Saskatoon, the largest city in Saskatchewan, is known for its friendly community, picturesque riverbanks, and affordable living costs. Saskatoon is one of the cheapest cities in Canada to live in, making it an ideal destination for students looking to study in Canada without incurring high expenses.
Cost of Living in Saskatoon
Saskatoon offers a low cost of living compared to other Canadian cities, making it a cheap city in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 800
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 100
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 50
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,300 per month for a single person without rent.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
For international students, Saskatoon offers various part-time job opportunities with competitive hourly wages averaging around CAD 22. This enables students to manage their living expenses while studying in one of Canada’s most affordable cities.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Saskatoon
According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Saskatoon include:
- University of Saskatchewan
- SaskTel
- Cameco Corporation
- PotashCorp
- Federated Co-operatives Limited
- Nutrien
- City of Saskatoon
- Stantec
- Mosaic Company
- Saskatoon Health Region
Top 5 Universities in Saskatoon (QS 2025 Rankings)
Saskatoon is home to the University of Saskatchewan, a leading research university known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Saskatoon are:
- University of Saskatchewan: Known for its research excellence, particularly in areas such as agriculture, health, and engineering.
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic: Offers a wide range of technical and trades programs with a focus on hands-on learning.
- First Nations University of Canada: Provides education grounded in Indigenous cultures and values, with campuses in Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert.
- St. Thomas More College: A Catholic liberal arts college affiliated with the University of Saskatchewan, offering a range of undergraduate programs.
- Horizon College & Seminary: A Christian institution offering undergraduate programs in theology, ministry, and leadership.
Conclusion
Saskatoon offers a unique combination of affordable living, quality education, and a welcoming community. Its relatively low cost of living, combined with excellent academic institutions and diverse employment opportunities, makes it an attractive choice for international students looking to study in Canada. Whether you’re interested in pursuing research at the University of Saskatchewan or gaining practical skills at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
7. Hamilton, Ontario
Hamilton, a bustling port city in Ontario, is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant arts scene, and growing educational institutions. Despite its proximity to Toronto, Hamilton offers a more affordable cost of living, making it one of the cheapest places to live in Canada for students looking to balance quality education and lifestyle.
Cost of Living in Hamilton
Hamilton’s cost of living is lower compared to other major cities in Ontario, making it a cheap city in Canada to live in. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 1,300
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 110
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 47
Average Cost of Living: CAD 2,057 per month
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Students in Hamilton can find various part-time job opportunities with competitive wages, averaging around CAD 23 per hour. This allows students to support themselves while studying and living in one of Canada’s most affordable cities.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Hamilton
According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Hamilton include:
- McMaster University
- Hamilton Health Sciences
- Stelco
- City of Hamilton
- ArcelorMittal Dofasco
- Mohawk College
- Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board
- St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton
- National Steel Car
- Canadian Tire
Top 5 Universities in Hamilton (QS 2025 Rankings)
Hamilton is home to McMaster University, one of Canada’s leading research universities known for its innovative teaching methods and strong emphasis on research. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Hamilton are:
- McMaster University: Known for its research excellence and innovative teaching methods, particularly in health sciences, engineering, and business.
- Mohawk College: Offers a wide range of programs in areas such as health, technology, and business, with a focus on hands-on learning.
- Redeemer University: A Christian liberal arts and sciences university offering a range of undergraduate programs with a focus on community engagement.
- Brock University (nearby in St. Catharines): Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on experiential learning.
- Niagara College (nearby in Niagara-on-the-Lake): Known for its programs in hospitality, tourism, and applied arts, with a focus on practical, hands-on education.
Conclusion
Hamilton offers a unique blend of urban amenities, natural beauty, and a strong educational foundation. Its relatively low cost of living, combined with excellent academic institutions and diverse employment opportunities, makes it a popular choice for international students looking to study in Canada. Whether you’re interested in pursuing research at McMaster University or gaining practical skills at Mohawk College, Hamilton provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
8. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
St. John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, is known for its stunning coastal scenery, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly community. As one of the cheapest places to live in Canada, St. John’s is an excellent destination for students looking to study in Canada while enjoying affordable living costs.
Cost of Living in St. John’s
St. John’s offers a low cost of living compared to other Canadian cities, making it one of the most affordable cities for students. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 900
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 90
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 45
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,435 per month
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Students in St. John’s can find various part-time job opportunities with competitive wages, averaging around CAD 21 per hour. This allows students to support themselves while studying and living in one of Canada’s cheapest cities.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in St. John’s
According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in St. John’s include:
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services
- Nalcor Energy
- Fortis Inc.
- Husky Energy
- Ocean Choice International
- City of St. John’s
- Cougar Helicopters
- PAL Aerospace
- Verafin
Top 5 Universities in St. John’s (QS 2025 Rankings)
St. John’s is home to Memorial University of Newfoundland, one of the leading universities in Atlantic Canada known for its strong academic programs and research opportunities. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in St. John’s are:
- Memorial University of Newfoundland: Known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and marine biology, with a focus on research and community engagement.
- College of the North Atlantic: Offers a wide range of diploma and certificate programs with a focus on practical, hands-on education.
- Marine Institute: A campus of Memorial University specializing in marine and ocean-related programs, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- Academy Canada: A private career college offering diploma programs in various fields, including health, business, and trades.
- Eastern College: A private career college offering programs in areas such as health, business, and technology, with a focus on job readiness.
Conclusion
St. John’s offers a unique combination of affordable living, quality education, and stunning natural beauty. Its relatively low cost of living, combined with excellent academic institutions and diverse employment opportunities, makes it an attractive choice for international students looking to study in Canada. Whether you’re interested in pursuing research at Memorial University of Newfoundland or gaining practical skills at the College of the North Atlantic, St. John’s provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
9. London, Ontario
London, located in southwestern Ontario, is known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and strong educational institutions. Despite its proximity to major cities like Toronto and Detroit, London offers a more affordable cost of living, making it one of the cheapest places to live in Canada for students.
Cost of Living in London
London’s cost of living is lower compared to other major cities in Ontario, making it a cheap city in Canada to live in. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 1,200
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 95
- Utilities: CAD 180
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 40
Average Cost of Living: CAD 2,115 per month
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Students in London can find various part-time job opportunities with competitive wages, averaging around CAD 23 per hour. This allows students to support themselves while studying and living in one of Canada’s most affordable cities.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in London
According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in London include:
- Western University
- London Health Sciences Centre
- TD Bank
- 3M Canada
- City of London
- General Dynamics Land Systems
- London District Catholic School Board
- Fanshawe College
- RBC
- GoodLife Fitness
Top 5 Universities in London (QS 2025 Rankings)
London is home to Western University, one of Canada’s leading research universities known for its strong academic programs and vibrant student community. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in London are:
- Western University: Known for its research excellence and strong programs in health sciences, engineering, and business.
- Fanshawe College: Offers a wide range of programs in areas such as health, technology, and business, with a focus on hands-on learning.
- Brescia University College: A women’s university affiliated with Western University, offering undergraduate programs with a focus on leadership and community engagement.
- Huron University College: Affiliated with Western University, offering programs in the arts, social sciences, and theology, with a focus on student success.
- King’s University College: Affiliated with Western University, offering programs in the arts, social sciences, and social work, with a strong emphasis on community engagement.
Conclusion
London offers a unique blend of urban amenities, natural beauty, and a strong educational foundation. Its relatively low cost of living, combined with excellent academic institutions and diverse employment opportunities, makes it a popular choice for international students looking to study in Canada. Whether you’re interested in pursuing research at Western University or gaining practical skills at Fanshawe College, London provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
10. Windsor, Ontario
Windsor, located on the southernmost tip of Canada, is known for its close proximity to the United States, vibrant cultural scene, and affordable living costs. As one of the cheapest places to live in Canada, Windsor is an excellent destination for students looking to study in Canada while enjoying affordable living costs.
Cost of Living in Windsor
Windsor offers a low cost of living compared to other Canadian cities, making it one of the most affordable cities for students. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
- Housing: CAD 950
- Food: CAD 250-450
- Transportation: CAD 90
- Utilities: CAD 200
- Miscellaneous: CAD 150
- Insurance: CAD 45
Average Cost of Living: CAD 1,585 per month
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Students in Windsor can find various part-time job opportunities with competitive wages, averaging around CAD 22 per hour. This allows students to support themselves while studying and living in one of Canada’s cheapest cities.
Top Companies Offering Jobs in Windsor
According to Glassdoor, the top 10 companies offering jobs in Windsor include:
- University of Windsor
- FCA Canada (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)
- City of Windsor
- Caesars Windsor
- Windsor Regional Hospital
- Green Shield Canada
- Valiant TMS
- Ford Motor Company
- St. Clair College
- CenterLine (Windsor) Ltd.
Top 5 Universities in Windsor (QS 2025 Rankings)
Windsor is home to the University of Windsor, a comprehensive university known for its strong academic programs and research opportunities. According to the QS 2025 rankings, the top 5 universities in Windsor are:
- University of Windsor: Known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and law, with a focus on research and community engagement.
- St. Clair College: Offers a wide range of diploma and certificate programs with a focus on practical, hands-on education.
- Canterbury College: Affiliated with the University of Windsor, offering programs in the arts, social sciences, and theology.
- Assumption University: A Roman Catholic university affiliated with the University of Windsor, offering programs in theology and religious studies.
- Lona College: Affiliated with the University of Windsor, offering programs in religious studies and humanities.
Conclusion
Windsor offers a unique combination of affordable living, quality education, and a strong sense of community. Its relatively low cost of living, combined with excellent academic institutions and diverse employment opportunities, makes it an attractive choice for international students looking to study in Canada. Whether you’re interested in pursuing research at the University of Windsor or gaining practical skills at St. Clair College, Windsor provides a supportive environment for students to thrive academically and personally.
Conclusion
Canada offers a wide range of cities for international students looking to study in Canada on a budget. The cities mentioned above are some of the cheapest places to live in Canada, offering affordable living costs, excellent academic institutions, and diverse employment opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant arts scene of Montreal, the friendly community of Saskatoon, or the natural beauty of St. John’s, Canada provides a unique and enriching experience for international students.
