Exchange in Canada: cost of living in Toronto 2025
If you're planning your exchange for 2025, this guide will help you understand exactly the costs involved and how to financially prepare for this transformative experience. Toronto isn't just a city; it's a portal to incredible opportunities. As Canada's largest metropolis, it offers a unique combination of quality of life, cultural diversity, and real chances of professional growth. Let's dive into the numbers and discover how to turn your dream into reality.
Why Toronto Remains an Irresistible Destination
Before we talk about costs, it's important to understand why Toronto maintains its position as one of the most sought after cities for exchange. The city never ceases to amaze: in 2025, Minimum wage in Ontario rose to CAD 17.20 per hour, offering one of the best salaries for working students from around the world.
Additionally, Toronto is home to some of best educational institutions of the world, creating an environment where you can study, work, and build a global network of contacts. The city breathes opportunity around every corner.
Housing: your biggest monthly investment
Housing represents, without a doubt, your biggest monthly expense in Toronto. The prices vary significantly depending on the location and type of accommodation you choose:
Student residence: CAD 1,100 — 1,500/month This option offers convenience and security, especially for those who are arriving. Residences are generally close to educational institutions and include basic utilities.
Shared apartment: CAD 1,200 — 2,200/month Sharing an apartment with other students is one of the most popular strategies. Prices rise as you approach the city center, but the experience of living with people from different cultures is priceless.
Homestay: CAD 1,200 — 1,300/month An option that goes beyond simple accommodation. Living with a Canadian family accelerates your English learning and offers authentic cultural immersion. The amount includes meals, which can represent significant savings.
Valuable tip: explore the Best neighborhoods for exchange students in Toronto can make a huge difference in your budget. Neighborhoods further away from the center offer more affordable prices without compromising quality of life.
Food: enjoying Toronto without breaking the budget
Food in Toronto offers a world of possibilities, from multicultural food courts to sophisticated restaurants. Here's how you can organize your food budget:
supermarket: CAD 300 — 400/month Cooking at home is definitely the most economical option. Toronto has excellent supermarket chains such as No Frills, FreshCo, and Metro, where you can find fresh produce and international options.
Simple meal outside: CAD 15 — 30 each The city offers numerous options to eat out without breaking the bank. Food courts, ethnic restaurants, and casual establishments provide tasty and affordable dining.
Transportation: connecting you to the city
Toronto's public transportation system, known as the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), is efficient and comprehensive:
TTC monthly pass: CAD 125 — 156 This pass provides unlimited access to subways, buses, and trams throughout the city. For students, there is a reduced rate that can lower this amount even more.
The TTC connects you to every corner of the city, including major educational institutions and work centers. It's an investment worth every penny.
Accounts and utilities: everyday costs
Internet: CAD 60 — 100/month Essential for studies and contact with family and friends in Brazil.
cellphone: CAD 20 - 60/month Basic plans perfectly meet the needs of students.
Electricity/Water: CAD 20 — 50/month Generally included in accommodations such as student residences and homestays.
Leisure and entertainment: living the full experience
Toronto offers options for all tastes and budgets:
filmmaking: CAD 12 — 15
gym: CAD 50 — 70/month
The city also offers incredible leisure and cultural opportunities, many of them free of charge. Parks, festivals, museums on specific days, and community events enrich your experience without weighing on the budget.
Health insurance: essential protection
Compulsory health insurance: CAD 100/month (average) This is not an optional expense, it's a legal requirement for international students. The investment guarantees access to excellent Canadian health services.
Work and income: balancing studies and earnings
Here's one of the most exciting parts of studying in Toronto: the work permit during the course. With the current minimum wage of CAD 17.20/hour, you can:
- Work up to 20 hours a week during term time
- Work full time while on vacation
- Earn approximately CAD 1,376/month working the maximum allowed
This income can cover a significant part of your monthly costs, making the exchange much more financially sustainable.
Realistic summary of monthly costs
Based on our experience helping hundreds of students, here's a realistic summary of what to expect:
Basic budget: CAD 1,800 — 2,200/month
- Student residence or homestay
- Eating mainly at home
- Use of public transport
- Moderate leisure
Comfortable budget: CAD 2,500 — 3,200/month
- Shared apartment in good location
- Mix between cooking and eating out
- Regular leisure activities
- Greater flexibility in spending
Smart strategies for saving
Share housing: Sharing an apartment dramatically reduces costs and still provides a rich social experience.
Cook at home: It can represent savings of up to 60% in food expenses.
Take advantage of student discounts: Toronto offers discounts on transportation, cultural events, movies, and many other services.
Work within the law: Maximize your allowed 20 weekly hours to balance the budget.
Explore free options: The city offers numerous events, festivals, and free activities throughout the year.
Comparing with other Canadian cities
When we compare Toronto with other popular exchange options in Canada, as shown in our guide on Toronto vs Vancouver vs Montreal, Toronto offers the best balance between professional opportunities and cost of living. While it's more expensive than Montreal, the job opportunities and the higher minimum wage make up for the difference.
Be Easy: turning dreams into real planning
We understand that planning an exchange involves much more than just adding numbers - it's about turning a dream into an experience that will change your life. Na Be Easy, our mission is to make that journey easier and safer for you. Our specialized team offers full support, from financial planning to choosing the ideal accommodation in Toronto. We know exactly how to help you maximize your budget and enjoy every moment of this unique experience. Contact us and discover how we can transform your dream of studying in Toronto into a well-planned and unforgettable reality!
