How much does it cost to live in major Canadian cities in 2025
In 2025, price differences between Vancouver and Quebec City, for example, may represent more than CAD 1,400 per month in your budget. Understanding these costs isn't just a matter of financial planning, but an essential strategy for choosing the ideal city for your Canadian experience.
The overview of costs in Canada in 2025
Canada is ranked 22nd among the most expensive countries to live in globally, with a cost of living index of 58.7 (with New York the reference with index 100). This means that, on average, living in Canada is 41% cheaper than in New York. An interesting fact is that the local Canadian purchasing power is 109.1, indicating that Canadians can buy approximately 9% more than New York residents with their average salaries.
The differences between provinces are notable, with British Columbia (CAD 2,200) and Ontario (CAD 2,139) listed as the most expensive, while New Brunswick (CAD 1,573) offers more affordable costs. These variations directly reflect the cost of living of cities within those provinces, something fundamental for those planning a Public College in Canada or any long-term study program.
The most expensive cities and their detailed costs
Vancouver and Toronto lead the ranking of Canadian cities with the highest cost of living, followed by Victoria. It is interesting to note that eight of the ten most expensive cities are located in the provinces of British Columbia or Ontario, with exceptions being Calgary (Alberta) and Halifax (Nova Scotia).
The monthly costs for a single person, including rent, vary considerably:
- Vancouver: CAD 4,269 (average rent of CAD 2,752 for a room in the center)
- Toronto: CAD 4,045 (average rent of CAD 2,520 for a room)
- Calgary: CAD 3,549 (average rent of CAD 1,965 for a room)
- Ottawa: CAD 3,200—3,800 (average rent of CAD 1,900 for two bedrooms)
- Edmonton: CAD 3,000—3,500 (average rent of CAD 1,400)
- Montreal: CAD 3,092 (average rent of CAD 1,706 for a room)
- Quebec City: CAD 2,800—3,300 (average rental of CAD 1,200)
These amounts include expenses such as food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, in addition to rent, providing a comprehensive view of the budget needed to maintain a comfortable standard of living in each location.
Factors that influence costs in each region
The cost of living in Canadian cities is influenced by a combination of economic, geographical, and political factors. Understanding these elements can help you choose the ideal city for your exchange, especially for those seeking opportunities such as the program Private College in Canada - Co-op.
Cost differences between Canadian cities are primarily determined by:
- Local real estate market: In Vancouver and Toronto, high demand for housing combined with limited supply raised rental prices significantly
- Regional economy: Cities with diversified economies like Toronto tend to have higher costs
- Provincial policies: Quebec offers various subsidies and social programs that help reduce the cost of living
- Geographic isolation: Cities farther away from large centers generally have lower costs
- Average salaries: Calgary, for example, has high costs but also offers proportionately higher salaries
It should be noted that cities like Montreal and Quebec City offer excellent value for money, combining quality of life, vibrant culture and more affordable costs compared to Vancouver and Toronto.
Cost of housing: the biggest impact on the budget
Housing represents the most significant component of the cost of living in Canada, with dramatic variations between cities. In 2025, the Canadian real estate market remains hot, especially in large cities, with a direct impact on the budget of those who intend to study and work in the country.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center varies considerably:
- Vancouver: CAD 2,752 (the most expensive in the country)
- Toronto: CAD 2,520
- Calgary: CAD 1,965
- Montreal: CAD 1,706
- Quebec City: CAD 1,200 (almost 60% cheaper than Vancouver)
For students and exchange students, there are alternatives such as shared housing, student housing, and homestays, which can significantly reduce the amount of rent. Many educational institutions also offer assistance in finding accommodations appropriate to each student's budget.
Food, transportation, and other essential expenses
In addition to housing, other significant components of the cost of living include food, transportation, utilities, and health. In 2025, these costs also vary between different Canadian cities, reflecting the local economy and regional factors.
The monthly food cost for a person ranges from CAD 400-600, depending on consumption habits and the city. In Vancouver and Toronto, this amount tends to be close to the upper limit, while in cities like Montreal and Quebec City, it is possible to save significantly in this regard.
- Public transport: The monthly cost ranges from CAD 100 in Quebec City to CAD 150 in Vancouver, with student passes offering substantial discounts
- Utilities (electricity, heating, water): Approximately CAD 150-230, with higher values during the harsh Canadian winter
- Internet and telephone: Around CAD 80-120 per month, with special plans for students
- Health insurance: Required for international students, with an annual cost of approximately CAD 600-840, depending on the province
- Entertainment and leisure: Variable according to lifestyle, generally between CAD 100-200 per month
These estimates provide a basis for calculating the required budget in addition to rent, allowing for more accurate financial planning for your Canadian experience.
Average salaries and purchasing power in the main cities
A fundamental aspect for those planning to work while studying in Canada is understanding the relationship between local salaries and the cost of living. This analysis is particularly important for participants in programs that allow work, such as Private College in Canada - Co-op, where internship income can help cover part of the expenses.
In 2025, average monthly salaries after taxes showed significant variations:
- Vancouver: CAD 4,447
- Toronto: CAD 4,331
- Calgary: CAD 4,244
- Montreal: CAD 3,950 (approximately)
- Quebec City: CAD 3,800 (approximately)
Local purchasing power, measured against New York as a reference (index 100), reveals interesting data. Calgary (119.9) and Edmonton (116.9) have the best indices, indicating that the proportionately higher salaries in these cities partially offset the high cost of living. Montreal, despite having lower average salaries, also offers good purchasing power due to the reduced cost of living.
This balance between costs and income is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the city for your exchange, especially for those who want to partially finance their expenses with local labor.
Costs for families and long-term students
For exchange students who plan to bring their family or stay in Canada for longer periods, the costs increase significantly. A family of four will face considerably higher monthly expenses, which vary depending on the city chosen.
The total monthly costs for a family, including renting a three-bedroom apartment outside the center:
- Vancouver: CAD 9,434 (CAD 5,564 excluding rent)
- Toronto: CAD 8,900 (approximately)
- Calgary: CAD 8,100 (approximately)
- Montreal: CAD 7,274 (CAD 5,110 excluding rent)
- Quebec City: CAD 6,800 (approximately)
Students planning long-term programs, such as full degrees, should consider strategies to reduce costs, including housing further away from the center, apartment sharing, and even the possibility of moving to smaller cities close to large centers, where costs are significantly lower, without compromising access to quality institutions.
Strategies to reduce costs during your exchange
Living in Canada can be expensive, but there are several strategies to maximize your budget without compromising the quality of the experience. For students and exchange students, small changes in habits can represent significant savings over time.
Some practical tips for reducing costs include:
- Choose the most cost-effective cities such as Montreal or Quebec City, where the cost of living is up to 30% lower than Vancouver
- Consider shared housing or located in residential neighborhoods outside the center
- Use public transport with student passes, which offer substantial discounts
- Take advantage of loyalty programs from Canadian supermarkets, such as PC Optimum and Air Miles
- Look for banks with specific student accounts that offer exemption from fees
- Work during your studies taking advantage of the 24-hour week permit during the term of office
These strategies, combined with careful financial planning, can make a big difference to your Canadian experience, allowing you to make the most of educational and cultural opportunities without compromising your budget.
Be Easy
A Be Easy offers complete support for those who wish to study in Canada, helping to identify the ideal city according to your budget and objectives. Our specialized team provides guidance on real costs, educational programs aligned with your profile, and job possibilities during your studies. We assist with the entire process, from choosing the city to local adaptation, ensuring that your Canadian experience is not only enriching but also financially feasible. Get in touch today and discover how we can make your Canadian dream an accessible reality!
