Exchange in Canada: is it possible to live on a minimum wage?

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Be Easy is: “Can I support myself in Canada with just a minimum wage?” The answer isn't simple, but we have good news for you! Let's explore how the Canadian minimum wage can underpin your exchange experience and what strategies can make that journey more financially comfortable.

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The minimum wage in Canada in 2025

Canada has a federal system where each province determines its own minimum wage. In 2025, the national average value was around C$17.75 per hour, resulting in approximately:

• C$142 per day (8-hour workday)
• C$710 per week (40-hour work week)
• C$3,074 per month (calculated about 173.2 monthly hours)

It should be noted that this amount may vary significantly between provinces. For example:
I will update the table with the data provided. This information is extremely valuable for those who are planning an exchange in Canada!

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The minimum wage in Canada in 2025

Canada has a federal system where each province determines its own minimum wage. In 2025, the values vary significantly between the different regions of the country, which may directly influence your choice of destination.

Check out the updated minimum wage table by province and territory:

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The real buying power of the exchange student

Purchasing power in Canada is approximately 4.5 times greater than in Brazil. This means that, even considering the higher cost of living, your money yields more when compared to what you would get in Brazil with the local minimum wage.

To better understand this math, let's make a simple comparison:

• Minimum monthly wage in Canada: C$3,074 (approximately R$12,300)
• Minimum monthly wage in Brazil: R$1,518

Even with the higher cost of living, the proportionately higher amount of the Canadian minimum wage allows for a reasonable standard of living, especially for exchange students who adopt a conscious lifestyle.

What you can buy with 1 hour of work in Canada (C$17.75):

• 3 coffees in a coffee shop
• A meal at a fast-food restaurant with side dish
• 1 movie ticket (on promotional days)
• 4-5 public transport tickets (depending on the city)

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The cost of living in different cities

Canada is a huge country, with significant variations in the cost of living between its cities. Choosing the right city can make a big difference to your monthly budget.

Toronto and Vancouver: the expensive giants

In Toronto and Vancouver, the most popular cities among exchange students, the cost of living is considerably higher:

• Shared room rental: C$800-1,200
• Food: C$400-500
• Transportation: C$150-180
• Lazer: C$200-300

In these cities, living exclusively on a minimum wage part time (24 hours a week) can be challenging, requiring housing sharing and strict spending control.

Montreal and Quebec: perfect balance

Montreal and Quebec City offer excellent value for money:

• Shared room rental: C$500-800
• Food: C$350-450
• Transportation: C$90-120
• Lazer: C$150-250

The bilingual environment (French and English) and rich cultural life make these cities ideal for exchange students seeking an authentic Canadian experience with more affordable costs.

Midsize cities: the secret to financial success

Cities like Halifax, Calgary, Edmonton or Winnipeg offer the best scenario for those who need to balance budget and quality of life:

• Shared room rental: C$400-700
• Food: C$300-400
• Transportation: C$80-100
• Lazer: C$100-200

In these locations, it is perfectly possible to live on the equivalent of a minimum wage on a part-time basis and still be able to save.

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Is it possible to live on a minimum wage during the exchange?

Yes, it's possible! But that answer comes with some important considerations:

• Lifestyle: Adopting a simpler lifestyle, especially in the first few months, is essential.
• Localization: As we have seen, the chosen city drastically impacts your budget.
• Shared housing: Sharing an apartment with other students significantly reduces costs.
• Planning: Having a well-defined budget and following it closely makes all the difference.

A student who works 24 hours a week (limit allowed during term time) will earn approximately C$1,537 per month. This amount is sufficient to cover basic expenses in medium-sized cities and even in Montreal, but it can be tight in Toronto or Vancouver without an additional financial reserve.

importantly: Although it is possible to live on the minimum wage, it is highly recommended to have an emergency reserve of at least C$3,000 before starting your exchange. This will ensure peace of mind while you settle down and find work.

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Strategies for living well on minimum wage

Adapting to life in Canada requires some smart strategies to maximize your budget:

1. Conscious eating

• Cook most meals at home
• Take advantage of promotions at supermarkets (especially on Tuesdays at many chains)
• Explore local markets for cheaper fresh produce
• Use apps like Flashfood to buy food at a discount

2. Economical transportation

• Get monthly public transport passes with a student discount
• Consider a bike for commuting in the warmer months
• Take advantage of car-sharing programs for occasional trips
• Walk whenever possible (Canadian cities are very safe!)

3. Strategic housing

• Look for accommodations further away from the center, but close to public transport
• Share an apartment with other exchange students or local students
• Consider working a few hours as a house sitter or pet sitter to reduce costs
• Look for universities that offer subsidized student accommodation

4. Affordable leisure

• Take advantage of free activities offered by the city and universities
• Use student discount cards at museums, movie theaters, and events
• Explore Canadian nature with hiking and outdoor activities
• Join exchange student groups to share costs on tours

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Sectors that employ the most exchange students

Finding work may be easier in certain sectors that traditionally hire international students:

Hospitality and tourism

The hospitality sector is always looking for employees, especially in:

• Hotels and hostels: waiters, receptionists, concierge
• Restaurants: waiters, kitchen assistants, bartenders
• Tourist attractions: attendants, guides
• Ski resorts (in winter): various operating positions

Retail

Stores and malls frequently hire students for positions such as:

• Store attendants
• Caixa
• Stochists
• Sales assistants during peak season periods

Technology and startups

For those who have technical skills or are studying programs in this area, there are opportunities in:

• Technical support
• Data entry
• Software testing
• Digital marketing

Delivery and logistics

A rapidly growing sector that offers flexible hours:

• App deliverers (UberEats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes)
• Logistics assistants
• Customer service
• Order separators

💡 Be Easy Tip: The programs of Public College in Canada and Private College in Canada - Co-op include paid internship periods, significantly increasing your chances of obtaining relevant professional experience and better compensation.

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Be Easy: your partner for a successful exchange in Canada

Na Be Easy, we understand that each exchange student has unique needs and objectives. That's why we offer programs tailored to Canada with comprehensive guidance on work, housing, and finance. Our experienced team helps you choose the ideal city for your profile and budget, ensuring a transformative experience with financial peace of mind. Contact us today and discover how we can make your exchange dream in Canada an accessible and enriching reality!

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