Top 10 Cheapest Cities To Study In Canada For International Students

The cheapest cities to study in Canada for international students are Montreal, Sherbrooke, Laval, Calgary, Ottawa, Kingston, Moncton, St. Catharines, Abbotsford, and Saskatoon. These cities offer budget-friendly living and lower tuition, housing, and food costs than major metropolitan areas like Toronto, Vancouver, Mississauga, and Brampton. Not only do these cities provide a low cost of living, but they also ensure high-quality education at minimal tuition fees, with globally recognized degrees. For international students, the average cost of studying in these Canadian cities, in terms of tuition fees, is around CAD 35,000 (INR 18,84,000) per academic year, which is feasible for those cities in the USA and UK. Moreover, the high exchange rate between Canadian dollars and Indian rupees yields a good Return on Investment (ROI) for Indian students. 

Canada, the second-largest country in the world, is the leading study-abroad destination for international students. Despite higher living costs in some Canadian cities, international students benefit from higher average wage rates. Due to this fact, around 1,040,985 international students were studying in Canada by the end of 2023 (according to CBIE data).

In this article, we discuss the cheapest cities to study in Canada for international students, including their top universities and living expenses.

The list of cheapest cities to study in Canada are given below.

1. Montreal, Quebec

Montréal stands out as the cheapest place to live for international students. More than 25,000 international students study in Montreal across 11 universities and 60 colleges, while many live in the Plateau (the city's young neighbourhood). Being the French capital of Canada, Montréal is known for its arts, fashion, and culture. It consistently earns the best student cities in the world. Some leading universities in Montreal include McGill University, the University of Montreal, Concordia University and the University of Quebec (Montreal). Additionally, Montreal offers several quirky shops, cafes, and restaurants at affordable prices.

Cost of Living in Montreal for International Students

The cost of living in Montreal is approximately C$1,200, the lowest than the national average. The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around CAD 1,295. According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary (after tax) in Montreal is C$3,691.10 for a single person. Similarly, the average annual wage is approximately C$33,200 for part-time student work in Montreal.

Housing	CAD 1290	INR 79,441
Food	CAD 300–500	INR 18,474–30,791
Transportation	CAD 220	INR 13,548
Utilities	CAD 200	INR 12,316
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 100	INR 6,158
Miscellaneous	CAD 150	INR 9,237
Insurance	CAD 41	INR 2,524

Best Universities in Montreal

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
McGill University	Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Arts Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences Education	UG - $6,132.55; PG - $4,545.76
Université de Montréal	Advanced Practice Nursing Analysis and Assessment of Health Care Ancient History Anthropology	UG - $25,100; PG - $21,270
Concordia University	Accountancy Aerospace Engineering (BEng) Art Education, Visual Arts (BFA)	UG - $39,520; PG - $35,000
Trebas Institute - Montreal	Film & Television Production Music Business Administration E-Commerce and Online Business Management	UG - CAD$ 14,087; PG - CAD$ 12,860
Kensley College	Cyber Security Software Testing	UG - CAD 14,540; PG - CAD 12,927
HEC Montreal	Data Science Finance International Business International Arts Management	UG - $13,042.01; PG - $12,055.23; MBA - $59,960
LaSalle College	Business and Management Education and Social Sciences Gaming and Animation	UG - $9,534 PG - $8,235

2. Sherbrooke, Quebec

After Montreal, Sherbrooke emerged as the second most affordable place in Canada. Located in southern Quebec, approximately 160 km from Montreal, Sherbrooke is a lesser-known student town. Over 30,000 foreign students study in Sherbrooke across eight educational institutions, including prestigious institutions like the University of Sherbrooke and Bishop’s University. Each university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorate programs. This fascinating city is surrounded by numerous lakes and hilly terrain—well-connected through cheap and public transport. People are warm, welcoming, and willing to help each other. Moreover, this exciting city is filled with music and gastronomical activities that are reasonably priced. In fact, the cost for cinema ranges between 13 CAD and 20 CAD, considered less expensive.

Cost of Living in Sherbrooke for International Students

The cost of living in Sherbrooke is approximately 15.6% less than the national average. You can easily find a single-bedroom apartment set under CAD 800. According to Numbeo, an average monthly salary (after tax) in Sherbrooke is 3,013.39 C$, quite sufficient for a single person to manage the expenses.

Housing	CAD 800	INR 49,297
Food	CAD 270–480	INR 16,637 – 29,578
Transportation	CAD 230	INR 14,173
Utilities	CAD 230	INR 14,173
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 120	INR 7,394
Miscellaneous	CAD 170	INR 10,475
Insurance	CAD 41	INR 2,526

Best Universities in Sherbrooke

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
University of Sherbrooke	Law Business Arts and Music	UG - 15,745; PG - 11,761
Bishop’s University	Computer Science Physics Climate Change Psychology	UG - 9,320; PG - 7,860
CDE College	Accounting and Management Business Management Network Administration Office System Techniques	UG - $10,973; PG - $10,100
Champlain Regional College	Business & Data Analytics Creative Arts & Communication Game Design & Development	UG - $48,300; PG - $39,761
Cégep de Sherbrooke	Arts and Aesthetics Modern languages Social Science	UG - $6,297; PG - $5,962

3. Laval, Quebec

Just like Montreal and Sherbrooke, Laval is also the most affordable and student-friendly city in Quebec, Canada. Situated 30 km northwest of Montreal, Laval encompasses public and private colleges offering quality education at affordable tuition fees. Around 7,500 international students are studying full-time and part-time courses at Laval University. The academic institutions are equally known for their state-of-the-art facilities, student-faculty ratio, research opportunities, and working hand-in-hand with leaders and innovators. Other than studies, students find hangout spots in Laval like Centropolis, Nature Centre, and Colossus Laval movie theatre.

Cost of Living in Laval for International Students

The estimated cost of living in Laval is C$1,874, approximately 5.6% less than the national average. The rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is 1,227.67 C$. According to Numbeo, an average monthly salary (after tax) in Laval is 3,554.17 C$ for a single person. 

Housing	CAD 1273	INR 78,444
Food	CAD 280–480	INR 17,254–29,578
Transportation	CAD 200	INR 12,324
Utilities	CAD 200	INR 12,324
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 130	INR 8,010
Miscellaneous	CAD 180	INR 11,091
Insurance	CAD 41	INR 2,526

Best Universities in Laval

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
Université Laval	Actuarial Science Business Administration Agroeconomics	UG - $41,359; PG - $33,283

4. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary comes next to Laval on the list of cheapest cities in Canada for international students. According to Oxford Economics’ North American housing affordability report, Calgary ranked #9th most affordable city in North America. Situated on the western edge of the Great Plains, Calgary is the largest city in Alberta, boasting the youngest population among Canadian cities. Students seeking creative programs must consider the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University. About 10% of the student population is international students. The city also has some of the top design and art colleges in Canada, providing world-class education. This cosmopolitan city is a famous skiing destination and is sometimes called the Texas of Canada for its Texan culture.

Cost of Living in Calgary for International Students

The average cost of living in Calgary is C$2,113. The minimum monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment set is CAD 800, making it less expensive compared to other major cities. According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary (after tax) in Calgary is 4,756.40 C$ for a single person.

Housing	CAD 800	INR 49,297
Food	CAD 250–450	INR 15,405–27,729
Transportation	CAD 150	INR 9,243
Utilities	CAD 250	INR 15,405
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 130	INR 8,010
Miscellaneous	CAD 160	INR 9,859
Insurance	CAD 68	INR 4,190

Best Universities in Calgary

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
University of Calgary	Archaeology Architecture Entrepreneurship and Innovation	UG - $28,198; PG - $25,392
Bow Valley College	General Business Insurance & Risk Management E Sports Business Management	UG - $15,570; PG - $11,375
The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology	Supply Chain Management Hospitality and Tourism Management Marketing	UG - $2542.50 per term
Mount Royal University	Criminal Justice Policy Studies Aviation Diploma	$22,400 – $26,084 per year
St Mary’s University	Geography Women and Gender Studies	$24,234 per year

5. Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is considered one of the cheapest cities in the country. Its living costs are 18% lower than the national average. Located in the eastern part of southern Ontario, Ottawa is home to two notable universities—the University of Ottawa and Carleton University. Around 9,600 international students are studying here. For students interested in politics and social sciences, Ottawa is the perfect place to study on a budget. To chill out, many restaurants, bars, and food trucks are available at fair prices. The downtown area, especially, is bustling with quirky cafes and fresh cuisines. On weekends, students immerse themselves in free tours of historic buildings like the National Art Centre, Rideau Hall, and many more.

Cost of Living in Ottawa for International Students

The average cost of living in Ottawa is C$2,170. The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around CAD 1,200. Students often look for affordable housing in Little Italy, Osgoode Street, Centretown, and Old Ottawa South. According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary (after tax) in Ottawa is 4,063.91 C$ for a single person. 

Housing	CAD 1200	INR 73,946
Food	CAD 300–480	INR 18,486–29,578
Transportation	CAD 120	INR 7,394
Utilities	CAD 210	INR 12,940
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 150	INR 9,243
Miscellaneous	CAD 120	INR 7,394
Insurance	CAD 37	INR 2,280

Best Universities in Ottawa

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
University of Ottawa	Music (General Profile)	UG - $32,582.15; PG - $11,522.18; PhD - $6,460.85 per term
Carleton University	Commerce (Business) Communication and Media Studies Industrial Design	CAD $32,287 – $50,305
Algonquin College	Information Technology Interior Design Nursing	CAD $16,820 – $22,754
Dominican University College	Sustainability Studies Public Administration Digital Journalism	UG - $4,904; PG - $7,751

6. Kingston, Ontario

Considering the economical housing and food costs, Kingston is another affordable place to live, similar to Ottawa and Calgary. Located in Eastern Ontario, 200 km from Ottawa, Kingston attracts more than 3,000 international students every year. Top institutions like Queen’s University, the Royal Military College of Canada, and St. Lawrence University provide better academic infrastructure and make students feel at home. Here, the student life is excellent due to the Queen’s University’s ‘Homecoming weekend’ event, followed by major attractions. Besides the busy modern life, Kingston attributes the striking 19th-century limestone architecture, Thousand Islands, and the all-time favourite shopping malls. 

Cost of Living in Kingston for International Students

The average cost of living in Kingston is C$1,412, which is significantly lower than in Toronto. The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,220. According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary (after tax) in Kingston is 4,650.89 C$ for a single person.

Housing	CAD 1220	INR 75,178
Food	CAD 300–500	INR 18,486–30,810
Transportation	CAD 140	INR 8,627
Utilities	CAD 230	INR 14,173
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 110	INR 6,778
Miscellaneous	CAD 110	INR 6,778
Insurance	CAD 40	INR 2,464

Best Universities in Kingston

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
St. Lawrence College	Biotechnology Advanced Health Information Management Business Administration	UG - $22,509; PG - $17,270
Royal Military College of Canada	English, Culture and Communications Military and Strategic Studies Political Science	$8,289 per semester
Queen’s University	Artificial Intelligence (Management) Astrophysics Computing, Mathematics and Analytics	PG - $15,641.25

7. St. Catharines, Ontario

With low living expenses and a better lifestyle, St. Catharines is known as an affordable place to study in Canada. St. Catharines is the most populous city in Canada’s Niagara region and is located in southern Ontario, 51 km from Toronto. Some of the best universities in St. Catharines include Brock University and Niagara College—over 900 international students enrolled in bachelor’s and master’s programs. This vibrant city is home to the famous Niagara Falls, Ice Cube on tour, Lakeside Park, and Sunset Beach. Thanks to affordable public transportation, students can travel across the city without spending much.

Cost of Living in St. Catharines for International Students

The average cost of living in St. Catharines is C$2,032. The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around CAD 1,314. According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary (after tax) in St. Catharines is 3,903.33 C$ for a single person. 

Housing	CAD 1314	INR 80,971
Food	CAD 200–450	INR 12,324–27,729
Transportation	CAD 150	INR 9,243
Utilities	CAD 200	INR 12,324
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 100	INR 6,162
Miscellaneous	CAD 130	INR 8,010
Insurance	CAD 41	INR 2,526

Best Universities in St. Catharines

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
Brock University	Classics Integrated Engineering Medieval and Renaissance Studies	PG - $8,270.65
Niagara College of Applied Arts and Technology	Culinary Arts Environment and Horticulture Human Resources	$19,798.50 per year
Niagara School of Health Care	Acting for Film and Digital Media Supply Chain and Operations Management (Co-op)	$8597.20 - $9846.08 CAD

8. Moncton, New Brunswick

Moncton, popularly known as “Atlantic’s Business Capital,” is a student-friendly city with a low cost of living. Even though Moncton is the largest city in New Brunswick, it is one of the cheapest places in the province. It has some of the best institutes, like New Brunswick Community College, Mount Allison University, and Crandall University, offering quality education at the most competitive tuition fees. Approximately 2,000+ international students were graduate or masters students in 2023. Due to its central location in New Brunswick, Moncton offers beautiful attractions like the Magnetic Hill, the Bay of Fundy, Tidal Bore, etc. Students here like short commutes to school and part-time jobs. An open-minded community with a relaxed attitude keeps students safe and engaged.

Cost of Living in Moncton for International Students

The average cost of living in Moncton is C$1,462, 6.3% below the national average. A one-bedroom apartment is a minimum of CAD 800 per month. According to Numbeo, an average monthly salary (after tax) in Moncton is 2,443.75 C$ for a single person.

Housing	CAD 800	INR 49,297
Food	CAD 250–450	INR 15,405–27,729
Transportation	CAD 90	INR 5,545
Utilities	CAD 250	INR 15,405
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 140	INR 8,627
Miscellaneous	CAD 110	INR 6,778
Insurance	CAD 39	INR 2,403

Best Universities in Moncton

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
McKenzie College	Visual Arts Foundation Photography Media Arts Accounting and Payroll Administration	$15,790 CAD
University of Moncton	Interior Design Education Philosophy	PG - $6,872 - $19,935
Crandall University	Communication Arts Kinesiology	PG - 15,769.00
Oulton College	Hospitality Veterinary Child and Youth Care	20,500 CAD per year

9. Abbotsford, British Columbia

Next on the list of cheapest cities in Canada is Abbotsford (popularly called the Raspberry capital of Canada). This famous city in British Columbia is located next to the Canada-United States border. Every year, around 2,000 international students study in Abbotsford. The most affordable institutions include the University of the Fraser Valley, Northern Lakes College, and Ashton College. Students who visit Abbotsford to study abroad also indulge in various recreational activities. Here, eatables in restaurants and food courts are pocket-friendly.

Cost of Living in Abbortsford for International Students

The average cost of living in Abbotsford is C$1,990, which is 3.6% below the national average. The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is approx. CAD 1,432. According to Numbeo, an average monthly salary (after tax) in Abbotsford is 3,140.00 C$ for a single person.

Housing	CAD 1432	INR 88,242
Food	CAD 200–400	INR 12,324–24,648
Transportation	CAD 110	INR 6,778
Utilities	CAD 180	INR 11,091
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 130	INR 8,010
Miscellaneous	CAD 100	INR 6,162
Insurance	CAD 36	INR 2,218

Best Universities in Abbotsford

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
Sprott Shaw College	Administration, legal & hospitality Business, Marketing & Cybersecurity Healthcare, Dental & Nursing	$367 CAD (Application Fees)
University of the Fraser Valley	Agricultural Science Applied Business Technology Business Analytics	UG - $12,000 per semester
Northern Lakes College	Power Engineering Advanced Care Paramedic Integrated Fire & EMS (PCP)	$14,784.00

10. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon, the largest city in Saskatchewan province, is perhaps one of the least expensive cities in Canada. Students studying in Saskatoon typically pay less for housing, food, bills, and internet. Some of the famous universities include the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Polytechnic College, and Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), offering courses online and offline. McDonald’s, Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot are the largest part-time employers in Saskatoon, with an annual income of C$30,000 – C$40,000. Like other cities, Saskatoon also boasts fine arts and festivals.

Cost of Living in Saskatoon for International Students

The average cost of living in Saskatoon is C$1,858. The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is CAD 1,466. According to Numbeo, the average monthly salary (after taxes) in Saskatoon is 3,666.25 C$ for a single person. 

Housing	CAD 1450	INR 89,351
Food	CAD 200–450	INR 12,324–27,729
Transportation	CAD 150	INR 9,243
Utilities	CAD 180	INR 11,091
Fitness and Leisure	CAD 100	INR 6,162
Miscellaneous	CAD 120	INR 7,394
Insurance	CAD 40	INR 2,464

Best Universities in Saskatoon

Top Universities	Popular Degree Programs	Average Tuition Fees 2025
University of Saskatchewan	Creative Writing Ethics, Justice and Law Indigenous Governance and Politics	$37,037 CAD
Saskatchewan Polytechnic	Building Sciences Carpentry Community Justice Worker	$26,340
St. Thomas More College	Biological Sciences Mathematics Health Sciences	UG - $32,109; PG - $7,862

Also Read: Cheapest universities in Canada

What is the average tuition fee in Canada?

The average tuition fees in Canada province-wise are given in the table below.

S No	Provinces in Canada	International Undergraduate Tuition Fee (in CAD)	International Postgraduate Tuition Fee (in CAD)
1	Alberta	21,548 per term	11,804 per term
2	British Columbia	25,472 per term	16,988 per term
3	Manitoba	15,582 per term	10,995 per term
4	New Brunswick	14,290 per term	11,593 per term
5	Newfoundland and Labrador	12,035 per term	4,087 per term
6	Nova Scotia	17,662 per term	18,907 per term
7	Ontario	34,961 per term	21,686 per term
8	Prince Edward Island	21,525 per term	11,905 per term
9	Quebec	21,857 per term	15,392 per term
10	Saskatchewan	20,211 per term	6,032 per term

Source from university websites

What are the cheapest provinces in Canada for international students?

The cheapest and most affordable provinces in Canada for international students include:

1. New Brunswick
2. Newfoundland and Labrador
3. Manitoba
4. Saskatchewan
5. Alberta
6. Prince Edward Island
7. Nova Scota

Conclusion

After reading this blog, hopefully, prospective students would know the cheapest cities in Canada for studies, including Montreal, Sherbrooke, Laval, Calgary, and more. Students here pay less for their living expenses compared to other metropolitan cities. So, if you're looking for the cheapest and the best city to study in Canada, choose between them. For an expert’s advice, you can reach out to us.

FAQs

1. Which is the cheapest city in Canada for families and professionals?

Quebec City with a population of 557,375 is the cheapest in Canada for families and professionals. The quality of life in Quebec is high compared to other major cities. Moreover, it is the major economic hub. Many infrastructure projects in Quebec attract talented professionals and entrepreneurs.

2. Which is the cheapest city in Canada for Indians?

Toronto is the cheapest city in Canada for Indians, especially for Punjabis, with a population of 397,865.

3. Which is the cheapest city in Canada for job seekers?

Toronto, Calgary, Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal, and Saskatoon are the cheapest cities in Canada for job seekers. Top companies like Microsoft, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Apple, and Enbridge recruit prospective employees with high-paying jobs.