8 Affordable Canadian Cities for International Students. For many international students, affordability is just as important as academic quality when choosing where to study in Canada. While cities like Toronto and Vancouver offer world-renowned universities and endless career opportunities, they also come with some of the country’s highest living costs. Depending on your lifestyle, students in these cities can easily spend between C$2,000 and C$2,600 per month, with rent accounting for the largest share of that budget.
Fortunately, studying in Canada doesn’t have to mean stretching your finances. Across the country are smaller cities that combine respected colleges and universities with significantly lower housing costs, welcoming communities, and excellent quality of life. These destinations allow students to spend less on rent while still enjoying strong academic programmes and career opportunities after graduation.
This list highlights eight of Canada’s most affordable student cities based on average two-bedroom apartment rental prices recorded by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) in late 2025. Since many international students share accommodation, actual housing costs are often much lower when rent is divided between roommates.
If you’re looking to reduce your living expenses without compromising your education, these Canadian cities deserve a closer look.
8. Regina, Saskatchewan
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,473
Regina offers one of Saskatchewan’s most affordable rental markets while serving as an important educational and economic centre. Home to several post-secondary institutions, the provincial capital attracts thousands of international students every year with its affordable lifestyle, growing job market, and welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond academics, Regina is known for its parks, festivals, and outdoor recreation. Wascana Centre—one of Canada’s largest urban parks—provides students with miles of walking trails, cycling paths, and green spaces to relax throughout the year.
International students also benefit from Saskatchewan’s healthcare system, which provides eligible students with provincial health coverage after meeting residency requirements.
Recommended institutions:
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic
- University of Regina
7. Red Deer, Alberta
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,414
Situated between Calgary and Edmonton, Red Deer offers many of Alberta’s career advantages without the high cost of living found in its largest cities.
The city is particularly attractive for students seeking a quieter study environment while remaining close to major employment centres. Nature lovers will appreciate more than 100 kilometres of recreational trails, nearby provincial parks, and convenient access to the Canadian Rockies for weekend adventures.
Red Deer Polytechnic welcomes students from dozens of countries each year and has built a strong reputation for career-focused education.
Recommended institution:
- Red Deer Polytechnic
6. Fredericton, New Brunswick
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,413
Fredericton combines affordable living with one of Atlantic Canada’s strongest education and technology sectors.
Often recognised for its engineering and research excellence, the city is home to a growing knowledge economy that creates opportunities for graduates in engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, and innovation.
Students also enjoy a compact, walkable city where commuting costs are low, making it easier to manage monthly expenses.
Recommended institutions:
- University of New Brunswick
- St. Thomas University
- New Brunswick Community College
5. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,361
As Canada’s easternmost provincial capital, St. John’s offers students a unique blend of history, culture, and affordability.
Known for its colourful waterfront, friendly residents, and thriving arts community, the city has grown beyond its fishing heritage into an important centre for offshore energy, marine research, and innovation.
Although some everyday goods can cost more due to the province’s geographic location, housing remains relatively affordable compared to many larger Canadian cities.
Recommended institutions:
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- College of the North Atlantic
4. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,300
Charlottetown delivers the charm of small-city living alongside a vibrant student community.
Located on Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province, students are never far from beautiful beaches, coastal scenery, and outdoor activities. Despite its relaxed pace, the city is home to a diverse international student population representing dozens of countries.
Students often find Charlottetown’s supportive community, lower housing costs, and safe environment ideal for focusing on their studies while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
Recommended institution:
- University of Prince Edward Island
3. Saint John, New Brunswick
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,290
Saint John combines affordable living with rich history and strong educational opportunities.
Located on the Bay of Fundy, the city offers access to beautiful natural attractions while maintaining lower living costs than many larger Canadian centres. Smaller class sizes and close relationships with faculty make it an attractive destination for students seeking a more personalised learning experience.
As New Brunswick is officially bilingual, students also have opportunities to study and work in both English and French environments.
Recommended institutions:
- University of New Brunswick
- New Brunswick Community College
2. Québec City, Québec
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,227
Québec City offers one of Canada’s most distinctive student experiences, combining centuries of history with affordable living.
Students can explore UNESCO-listed Old Québec, enjoy local traditions, and experience one of North America’s most culturally unique cities. Across the province, tuition and housing costs are often lower than in many other parts of Canada.
However, because French is the primary language of instruction at many institutions, Québec City is best suited for students who already speak French or are prepared to study in the language.
Recommended institutions:
- Aviron Québec College Technique
- BLI Canada – Québec City
1. Sherbrooke, Québec
Average monthly rent (2-bedroom): C$1,062
Sherbrooke tops the list as one of Canada’s most affordable university cities.
Located roughly two hours from Montréal, Sherbrooke has built its reputation around higher education, with students making up a significant portion of the local population. This strong student presence helps keep rental prices relatively low while creating a lively atmosphere filled with cafés, cultural events, cycling routes, and outdoor recreation.
The city is particularly popular with students who value affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
Recommended institution:
- Bishop’s University
Choosing an Affordable Canadian Study Destination
High-quality education doesn’t always require living in Canada’s most expensive cities. From Atlantic Canada to the Prairies and Québec, students can find affordable communities that offer respected institutions, lower housing costs, welcoming environments, and excellent career prospects after graduation.
If keeping your monthly expenses under control is one of your top priorities, these eight cities prove that it’s possible to enjoy an outstanding Canadian education without paying Toronto or Vancouver prices.
