Cost of Living in Canada for International Students (2026 Guide)

Studying in Canada is exciting, but before you pack your bags, you need to understand the real cost of living. Many Nigerian students focus only on tuition fees and forget about accommodation, food, transport, and daily expenses.This guide breaks down the realistic monthly cost of living in Canada for international students in 2026.Average Monthly Living Expenses in CanadaOn average, students spend between CAD $1,200 – $2,500 per month, depending on the city.Here’s a breakdown:🏠 AccommodationOn-campus residence: CAD $800 – $1,500/monthOff-campus shared apartment: CAD $600 – $1,200/monthPrivate apartment: CAD $1,200 – $2,000/monthCities like Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive than smaller cities like Winnipeg or Halifax.🍲 FoodGroceries: CAD $250 – $400/monthEating out occasionally: CAD $100 – $250/monthCooking at home saves a lot of money.🚍 TransportationPublic transport pass: CAD $80 – $150/monthMany universities offer student discounts.📚 Books & SuppliesCAD $500 – $1,000 per year📱 Miscellaneous (Phone, Internet, Entertainment)CAD $100 – $300/monthCheapest Cities for Students in CanadaIf you want to save money, consider:WinnipegReginaHalifaxQuebec CityThese cities have lower rent compared to Toronto or Vancouver.Can Students Work to Support Themselves?Yes. International students can work:20 hours per week during schoolFull-time during breaksPart-time jobs help cover food and transport expenses.Final AdvicePlan your budget carefully before traveling. Show enough funds for your visa, and avoid underestimating living expenses.