At Inforens, we know that studying in Canada is not just about choosing the right university. It is also about setting up your life in a way that feels stable, affordable, and stress free from day one. One of the biggest challenges international students face after receiving an offer letter is finding the right place to live.
Canada’s housing market can feel overwhelming, especially if you are navigating it from another country. Costs vary widely by city, demand is high, and availability depends heavily on timing and preparation. This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions by breaking down housing options, real costs, city wise comparisons, and proven strategies to secure safe and affordable student accommodation in Canada.
Studying in Canada: Finding a Place to Call Home
Studying in Canada is an exhilarating adventure, but before you can immerse yourself in lecture halls and vibrant city life, you need a place to call home. Finding suitable, safe, and affordable student accommodation is often the first major challenge international students face.
The Canadian housing market is diverse, but securing your spot requires early planning and a smart approach. This comprehensive guide breaks down the types of housing available, expected costs, and practical strategies to help you find your perfect Canadian nest.
The Cost of a Canadian Home: City by City Comparison
The single biggest factor affecting your accommodation budget is your city of study. Major urban centres such as Toronto and Vancouver are significantly more expensive than smaller cities or provinces like Quebec, Manitoba, and the Atlantic region.
Toronto and Vancouver: High Cost Cities
Shared off campus room: CAD 800 to 1,600
Often the highest rental prices in the country.
Private one bedroom apartment (downtown): CAD 2,500 to 2,750 or more
Rarely affordable for a single student.
Montreal and Ottawa: Mid Cost Cities
Shared off campus room: CAD 600 to 1,200
Montreal is generally more student budget friendly.
Private one bedroom apartment (downtown): CAD 1,700 to 1,900
More feasible, especially in Montreal.
Winnipeg, Halifax, Quebec City: Lower Cost Cities
Shared off campus room: CAD 500 to 800
Significantly more affordable living compared to major metros.
On Campus Residence: National Average
Dormitory or shared room with meal plan: CAD 700 to 1,400
Typically paid per semester or academic year.
Key Cost Takeaways You Must Know
Proof of funds: As of late 2025, the required proof of funds for a single student’s living expenses outside Quebec, excluding tuition, is CAD 22,895. This increase reflects rising housing and living costs.
Utilities: Unless you choose on campus housing or an all inclusive rental, utilities such as electricity, heating, water, internet, and phone can add CAD 100 to 150 or more per month.
The price of privacy: A private one bedroom or studio apartment in a major city is the most expensive option. Shared housing remains the most cost effective choice for international students.
Types of Student Accommodation in Canada
Your choice of housing affects not only your budget but also your academic and social experience.
A. On Campus Housing
This is the most structured and convenient option, especially for first year students.
Types: Dormitory style, apartment style, townhouse style
Pros: Close to classes, utilities included, meal plans, built in student community
Cons: Less privacy, strict rules, limited availability, higher overall cost
B. Homestay
Living with a pre approved Canadian host family.
Pros: Cultural immersion, meals included, safe environment, social support
Cons: Less independence, commute of 30 to 50 minutes, house rules apply
Cost: Typically CAD 400 to 800 per month, often including meals
C. Off Campus Shared Housing
The most popular and budget friendly option for international students.
Types: Shared apartments or houses, basement rentals, purpose built student accommodation
Pros: Independence, flexibility, better affordability, local living experience
Cons: Requires effort to find, utility management, lease responsibilities
How to Find Affordable Student Housing in Canada
Affordable housing exists, but you must be proactive, informed, and cautious.
Start Early and Use University Resources
Begin your search four to six months before arrival, especially for September intakes.
University housing portals: Verified listings and student specific options
University Facebook groups: Sublets and shared housing posts from students and landlords
Use Reliable Online Platforms
Stick to reputable platforms and stay alert for scams.
Popular sites: Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Rentals.ca, AmberStudent, Student.com
Rental terms to know:
A bachelor apartment means a studio
Utilities included can significantly reduce monthly costs
Look Beyond the Downtown Core
Rent drops significantly as you move away from city centres.
Prioritise transit connected areas: A 30 minute commute is normal and cost effective
Choose budget friendly cities: Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Halifax offer major savings
Protect Yourself From Housing Scams
Never pay before viewing in person or through a trusted representative
Verify landlords through video calls and detailed questions
Understand your lease rights under your province’s tenant laws
Final Thought
Finding student accommodation in Canada takes planning, patience, and the right information. By starting early, choosing shared housing, understanding city wise costs, and staying alert, you can secure a comfortable and affordable home that supports your academic journey.
At Inforens, we help students plan not just admissions and visas, but the real life details that make studying abroad successful.
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