Top 5 student cities in Canada
Discover the favourite cities for university students in Canada and what makes them unique.
Are you thinking about studying in Canada but still don't know where you want to go? In this guide, we'll tell you about the top 5 cities to study in Canada, along with their pros and cons, their top universities, and the average rent for students.
Canada stands out for its first-rate universities, incredible landscapes and quality of life, making it one of the favourite destinations for international students. In addition, its cities are safe, multicultural and full of opportunities.
Montreal
Known as the Paris of North America, Montreal is the cultural heart of Canada and one of the most popular cities among national and international students. In fact, it has the highest number of university students per capita in North America. Its streets are full of life, it has a multilingual atmosphere because both French and English are spoken, and it offers a wide range of academic and cultural activities.
Pros and cons of studying in Montreal
Studying in Montreal has many advantages, but also some disadvantages:
Pros of studying in Montreal
- The cost of living is average, but more affordable than other large cities in the country.
- It’s bilingual: both French and English are official languages.
- Public transport is efficient and affordable. You can also use a bicycle.
- It has a wide range of cultural offerings, with museums, activities and lots of festivals throughout the year, many of which are free.
- Its nightlife is very lively.
Cons of studying in Montreal
- Winters are cold and long, with snowfall and temperatures that can drop to -20ºC.
- Some procedures and jobs may require proficiency in French.
- Some services, such as internet or transport, have higher costs than in other cities.
Top universities in Montreal
Montreal is a hub of innovation with renowned universities such as:
Université de Montréal (University of Montreal)
It’s one of the most important French-speaking institutions in Canada, and its main campus is located on the slopes of Mount Royal, in the Côte-des-Neiges neighbourhood.
Read our guide to student Housing near the University of Montreal.
McGill University
Recognised worldwide for its excellence and international atmosphere, it’s one of the oldest universities in the country. Its main campus is in Downtown Montreal.
Find out more details in the guide on student Housing near the McGill University.
Concordia University
This institution is highly popular among international students for its practical and modern approach. The Sir George Williams Campus is located in the Quartier Concordia, between the neighbourhoods of Shaughnessy Village and The Golden Square Mile.
Find where to live in our article on student Housing near the Concordia University.
Student housing in Montreal
It’s true that rents in Montreal tend to be affordable, but it’s still competitive, so students often choose rooms in shared flats or residences. This type of accommodation usually ranges from CAD$800 upwards, although if you search in advance you can find some for CAD$350-450.
Looking for accommodation in Montreal? Read our guide on accommodation for students in Montreal, with the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.
Toronto
Known as "the Queen City" or "The Six," Toronto is Canada's largest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. It’s the country's main financial, technological and cultural centre, attracting thousands of international students every year. Its multicultural environment (more than half of its inhabitants are foreigners) means that there’s always something new to discover, from festivals and cuisine from around the world to a very active university life.
Pros and cons of studying in Toronto
Toronto offers many opportunities, albeit with challenges:
Pros of studying in Toronto
- High academic quality in its universities.
- Opportunity to visit iconic places, such as Niagara Falls.
- Cultural diversity.
- Job opportunities during and after the exchange.
- Its cultural life is very rich, with concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year.
- It’s considered one of the safest cities in North America.
Cons of studying in Toronto
- It’s one of the most expensive cities in the country, especially in terms of accommodation and transport.
- Life can be fast-paced (in fact, it’s considered the Canadian New York).
- Winters are also cold and long, although not as extreme as in Montreal.
- There are many opportunities, but also a lot of competition, especially in sectors such as technology and finance.
Top Universities in Toronto
This city is home to some of Canada's most important and diverse universities.
University of Toronto
It’s considered one of the best universities in the world, recognised for its research and academic excellence. The St. George Campus, located in Downtown Toronto, is the main campus.
Learn all about the university and its surroundings in our guide to accommodation near the University of Toronto.
York University
It’s renowned for its business, arts, law and social science programmes. Its main campus is Keele Campus, north-west of Toronto.
See the complete guide to accommodation near of York University for more information.
Humber College
This institution is valued for its practical approach, its technical programmes and its links to the job market. The North Campus, the most important one, is located in the Humberwood neighbourhood.
If you’re going to study there, don't miss our guide to accommodation near Humber College.
Student housing in Toronto
Toronto is an expensive city, and the cost of accommodation is one of the main concerns for students, with rents ranging from CAD$1,000 to CAD$2,000. The favourite type of accommodation for students is rooms in shared flats.
Would you like to learn more about prices and recommended areas to live in? Visit our guide to accommodation for students in Toronto.
Vancouver
Vancouver’s also multicultural and boasts high-quality education. However, nicknamed "the jewel of the Canadian Pacific", what sets it apart is its unique natural environment, surrounded by mountains and the ocean. It’s the ideal destination for adventurers!
Pros and cons of studying in Vancouver
This city offers nature and quality education, although not everything is perfect for those who come here to study.
Pros of studying in Vancouver
- Efficient public transport and the option of using a bicycle to get around the city.
- A variety of leisure activities, including city activities and outdoor sports such as skiing, kayaking, and hiking.
- The climate’s milder than in the previous cities.
- Its atmosphere is multicultural and more relaxed.
Cons of studying in Vancouver
- Very high cost of living, especially in terms of rent.
- The supply of student accommodation is limited compared to the number of students looking for flats.
- Being next to the ocean, it usually rains for much of the year.
Top universities in Vancouver
Vancouver stands out for its innovative universities and unique environment.
University of British Columbia
It’s one of Canada's most prestigious universities. Its Vancouver campus boasts stunning sea views, located on the Point Grey peninsula. See our guide to accommodation near the University of British Columbia for more details.
Simon Fraser University
The main campus of this institution is located in Burnaby, a city that’s part of the Vancouver metropolitan area. However, it also has a campus in the downtown area.
Explore locations, neighbourhoods, and tips in the guide to accommodation near Simon Fraser University.
Student housing in Vancouver
Finding accommodation in Vancouver can be quite a challenge, as demand far exceeds supply. It’s important to start your search as early as possible. Also, keep in mind that the average cost of rent is among the highest in the country, typically ranging from CAD$750-2000 per month.
Are you planning to study in Vancouver? Don't miss our guide to accommodation for students in Vancouver, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.
Ottawa
Canada's capital is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed and safer environment, surrounded by green spaces, museums and an excellent quality of life. Furthermore, its location between Montreal and Toronto allows easy access to both cities.
Pros and cons of studying in Ottawa
Ottawa offers an academic experience with advantages and disadvantages that are worth knowing about.
Pros of studying in Ottawa
- High educational quality in its institutions.
- Bilingual environment, with French and English.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other large cities.
- A multicultural city with a varied cuisine.
- Safe and orderly environment.
- Opportunities in the technology sector.
Cons of studying in Ottawa
- Nightlife and leisure options are more limited.
- Winters are very cold, with temperatures that can drop below -20 °C.
- The pace of life may be too slow for some students.
Top universities in Ottawa
Ottawa is home to universities with excellent reputations.
University of Ottawa
It’s one of the largest bilingual universities in the world, noted for its diversity and programmes in both languages. Its main campus is in the Sandy Hill neighbourhood, near the city centre.
If you’re thinking of studying there, we recommend reading our guide to accommodation near the University of Ottawa.
Carleton University
This university is renowned for its programmes in communication, engineering, and international relations. The neighbourhood where its campus is located is also called Carleton University, and extends south of the city centre.
In this guide, we tell you more about their locations and how to find accommodation near Carleton University.
Student housing in Ottawa
Rent in Ottawa is more affordable than in other large cities, which is highly valued by students. You can find rooms in shared flats or residences with prices ranging from CAD$320 to CAD$1,000, while a studio flat costs around CAD$1,400.
If you’re going to study in the Canadian capital, check out our guide to accommodation for students in Ottawa with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.
Québec
Québec City, capital of the province of the same name, is one of the oldest cities on the continent and the cradle of Canada's French language and identity. It stands out for its European architecture and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a different kind of experience.
Pros and cons of studying in Québec
Living and studying in Québec has great benefits, but there are also some challenges that you should be aware of.
Pros of studying in Québec
- Excellent educational quality.
- The cost of living is more affordable than other cities, such as those mentioned in the article.
- In a bilingual environment, French and English are spoken.
- Good job opportunities while studying.
- It’s a safe city with a strong cultural identity.
Cons of studying in Québec
- Most university programmes are taught in French, which can be a barrier if you don’t speak the language fluently.
- Winters are very long and cold.
- The range of employment opportunities for international students is more limited than in larger cities.
Top Universities in Québec
Quebec is particularly notable for being an academic benchmark in Canada.
Université Laval (Laval University)
It’s another of Canada's most prestigious and oldest institutions, renowned for the quality of its research. Its main campus is located on the outskirts of downtown Québec, in the Cité-Universitaire.
Find more practical information about the city and its universities in the guide to accommodation near the Université Laval.
Student housing in Québec
Quebec City is one of the most affordable cities in the country, with a variety of reasonably priced accommodation options. A room in a shared flat costs between CAD$500-800, while a studio flat can cost around CAD$1000.
Looking for accommodation in Québec? Read our guide to student accommodation in Québec and find the most convenient neighbourhoods.
Find accommodation in Canada with Erasmus Play
Each one of the top 5 student cities to study in Canada has its own charm and advantages for international students. Whether it's the cultural atmosphere of Montreal, the opportunities in Toronto, the nature of Vancouver, the tranquillity of Ottawa, or the European touch of Quebec City, in Canada you’ll always find a place that suits your lifestyle and academic goals.
If you’re planning your study experience in Canada, use our platform to search for verified accommodation, compare prices and find your new home with confidence.
Other guides on studying and living in Canada
For more information, you can access our guides with useful information and tips for studying and living in different cities in Canada:
Studying in Canada
- Studying in Canada: requirements, reasons and things to do
- Studying in Montreal
- Studying in Toronto
- Studying in Vancouver
- Studying in Ottawa
- Studying in Québec