Before you pack your bags for your study abroad journey, it’s important to understand what living abroad will cost you.
While tuition fees often get most of the attention, your cost of living — including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses — can significantly affect your study experience.
At GM EduGlobe Consult, we believe every student should make informed financial decisions before studying abroad.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the cost of living for international students in Canada, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States (USA) — the three most popular destinations for global learners.
1. Cost of Living in Canada
Canada is known for its affordable, high-quality education compared to other major destinations. However, living costs vary depending on the city — with Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal being the most expensive.
Accommodation
- On-campus housing: CAD $700 – $1,200/month
- Off-campus shared apartment: CAD $800 – $1,500/month
- Homestay: CAD $600 – $1,000/month
💡 Tip: Many colleges offer student housing for first-year students. Living on campus can help you save on transportation costs.
Food & Groceries
- Monthly groceries: CAD $300 – $500
- Eating out occasionally: CAD $10 – $25 per meal
Transportation
- Monthly public transport pass: CAD $90 – $120
- Student discounts are available in most cities.
Other Expenses
- Internet & phone: CAD $70 – $120/month
- Entertainment & leisure: CAD $100 – $200/month
Average Monthly Total: CAD $1,500 – $2,500
(≈ USD $1,100 – $1,900)
🎯 Example: A student in Toronto may spend more, while students in smaller cities like Winnipeg or Halifax can live comfortably on less.
2. Cost of Living in the United Kingdom
The UK remains a top choice for international students — offering shorter degree programs and access to world-class universities.
However, living costs are higher, especially in London compared to other regions like Manchester, Birmingham, or Nottingham.
Accommodation
- University halls: £600 – £1,000/month
- Shared private apartment: £700 – £1,200/month
- Homestay: £500 – £900/month
💡 Tip: If you live outside central London, you can save up to 25% on rent.
Food & Groceries
-
Monthly groceries: £150 – £300
-
Occasional dining out: £10 – £20 per meal
Transportation
- London Underground (Oyster Card): £120/month
- Other cities (bus/tram): £50 – £80/month
Other Expenses
- Internet & phone: £40 – £70/month
- Entertainment: £100 – £150/month
Average Monthly Total: £1,000 – £1,800
(≈ CAD $1,700 – $3,000)
🎓 Insight: Students studying in cities like Liverpool or Leeds often report lower living costs and equally vibrant student life.
3. Cost of Living in the United States
The USA offers unmatched academic diversity — from Ivy League universities to community colleges — but living costs vary widely by state.
Cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco are expensive, while places like Texas, Ohio, and Florida are more budget-friendly.
Accommodation
- On-campus dormitory: USD $800 – $1,500/month
- Off-campus shared apartment: USD $700 – $1,400/month
💡 Tip: Many students reduce housing costs by sharing apartments with roommates or living slightly outside campus.
Food & Groceries
- Monthly groceries: USD $300 – $500
- Eating out: USD $10 – $25 per meal
Transportation
- Monthly public transit pass: USD $60 – $120
- Owning a car can add insurance and fuel costs (~USD $200+/month).
Other Expenses
- Internet & mobile: USD $60 – $100/month
- Entertainment & leisure: USD $100 – $200/month
Average Monthly Total: USD $1,500 – $2,800
(≈ CAD $2,000 – $3,800)
🎯 Note: Cost of living is higher on the East and West coasts but lower in the Midwest and Southern states.
Comparative Summary
| Expense Category | Canada (CAD) | UK (£) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 700 – 1,500 | 600 – 1,200 | 700 – 1,500 |
| Food | 300 – 500 | 150 – 300 | 300 – 500 |
| Transportation | 90 – 120 | 50 – 120 | 60 – 120 |
| Other Expenses | 150 – 300 | 100 – 200 | 150 – 300 |
| Monthly Total (Approx.) | $1,500 – $2,500 | £1,000 – £1,800 | $1,500 – $2,800 |
Final Thoughts
While studying abroad is a major investment, proper budgeting and planning can help you live comfortably while pursuing your dreams.
At GM EduGlobe Consult, we help students:
- Choose affordable study destinations
- Plan realistic living budgets
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid
- Prepare for visa and travel arrangements
Your global education dream should not be limited by financial worries — we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Start Planning Your Study Abroad Journey Today
- Website: www.gmeduglobeconsult.com
- Email: info@gmeduglobeconsult.com
- Call/WhatsApp: +2348075082050
GM EduGlobe Consult — Empowering Global Students for Global Success.