If you are coming to Vancouver, like other students, one of the main questions you will have is, “How much is the cost of living in Vancouver for students?”
You might have heard rumors about how expensive the cost of living in Vancouver.
We will provide all the information you need with all the truth based on many people’s experience for you.
The average cost of living in Vancouver as an international student can be between $2,350 to $5,000.
Would you like to learn more granular information about how much you may be spending?
In this article, we will break down the main expenses in Vancouver and offer tips to help you manage your student budget in Vancouver.
Monthly Cost of Living Calculator for Students in Vancouver
Before you learn all the details about the cost of living in Vancouver, you can briefly calculate your monthly expenses.
The result will provide you estimated average monthly cost for students in Vancouver.
What is the Accommodation Cost for Students in Vancouver?
The cost of accommodation can show some difference depending on the area that you will be living in Vancouver.
In general, rental costs make up 60% of every student’s monthly expenses in Vancouver.
Once you find an affordable rental room in Vancouver for yourself, your monthly expenses will be reduced.
Let’s check the student’s average accommodation expenses based on the accommodation types that students prefer.
Our student accommodation guide in Canada will provide you with broader information before making your final decision about which accommodation type you would like to go for.
1- On-campus accommodation
On-campus accommodation can be a great option for students. The average cost for a single room is around $1,200 per month. Depending on the room type, the cost of on-campus accommodation can jump up to $1,900 in Vancouver. This includes utilities and internet. Living on campus means you are close to classes and campus amenities. However, spots are limited and can fill up quickly.
2- Off-campus apartments
Renting an apartment off-campus is another option. Renting a room with a student housing option in Vancouver has a wide variety and rents vary a great deal depending on the neighborhood.
To be more precise, a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Vancouver costs between $2,000 and $2,800, while in East Vancouver, which comprises most of the city’s more modest areas, costs hover in the range of $1,600 to $2,100.
The cost of renting off-campus can be high, but it offers more freedom and space.
The table below is going to explain majority of your cost of living in British Columbia for international students.
3- Homestays
Homestay in Vancouver can be a more affordable option. Living with a local family can cost between $1,100 and $1,400 per month. This usually includes meals, utilities, and internet. Homestays provide a supportive environment and a chance to learn about local culture. However, you may have less privacy compared to other living arrangements.
You can calculate your estimated homestay fees in Vancouver.
4- Cost of student housing in Vancouver
Shared accommodations are a possibility, with the approximate costs then coming down to about $800 to $1,200 per person.
This is a popular option among students to manage the high rental expenses in Vancouver.
You can find affordable coliving in Vancouver among our listings.
How Insurance Impacts Living Cost in Vancouver for Students?
International students must have health insurance to study in Canada.
Several private insurance options are available upon arrival, with typical monthly costs of CAD 60 to $100 depending on the coverage.
Students qualify for the governmental health plan, known as the Medical Services Plan (MSP), after three months, which costs approximately CAD 75 per month and covers vital medical attention.
What is the Food Cost for Students in Vancouver?
The average food cost per month in Vancouver starts from $600 including a grocery shop and eating out expenses.
This average spending on your food cost can go as high as possible.
This amount will change depending on how often you eat out in Vancouver and how much food you consume as a person.
Let’s have a look at how students can manage their living expenses on food.
1- Grocery expenses
The average grocery cost for one person in Vancouver can differentiate depending on the consumption and where you shop from.
For example, a gallon of milk at a budget grocery store like No Frills might cost around $4.50, whereas at a premium store like Whole Foods, it could be closer to $6.50.
For a balanced diet, expect to spend around $300 to $500 monthly on groceries.
We recommend shopping at budget-friendly stores like No Frills or Superstore.
Also, consider buying in bulk at Costco if you have space to store items.
Farmers’ markets can offer fresh produce at reasonable prices, but it’s best to compare prices.
Overall, budgeting and smart shopping are key to managing grocery costs in Vancouver.
2- Dining out costs
What is the cost of dining out in Vancouver for students?
Eating out is a treat but can be expensive.
Average meal cost in Vancouver at an inexpensive restaurant costs about $15 to $20.
Fast food options are cheaper, around $13 per meal.
However, dining at mid-range restaurants can cost $30 to $50 per person.
To save money, look for student discounts and happy hour deals.
Many places offer discounts during specific times or days.
Cooking at home is the best way to save, but occasional dining out is manageable with a budget.
- Dining at an affordable eatery: $20 – $30
- Dining at a moderately-priced restaurant: $40 – $60
- Dining at a luxury restaurant: $70 – $100
How Much Transportation Costs for Students in Vancouver?
Transportation costs in Vancouver are quite affordable for students.
Getting a monthly pass is essential for students who do not live in downtown Vancouver.
1- U-Pass program
Is the U-Pass program worth it for students? Yes, it is! The U-Pass program gives students unlimited access to public transit. This includes buses, SkyTrain, SeaBus, and even West Coast Express. The cost is about $42.50 per month.
The U-Pass is included in your student fees if you are enrolled in a participating public institution. This makes it a great deal compared to regular transit fares.
Ten post-secondary institutions in Metro Vancouver currently participate in the program:
- University of British Columbia
- Simon Fraser University
- Capilano University
- Langara College
- Emily Carr University of Art & Design
- Vancouver Community College
- Douglas College
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University
- British Columbia Institute of Technology
- Nicola Valley Institute of Technology
2- Monthly transit passes
What if your school does not offer the U-Pass? You can still get a monthly transit pass in Vancouver. A one-zone pass costs $102.50 per month. If you need to travel across two zones, the cost is $137.00. For three zones, it is $185.00.
These passes offer unlimited travel within the chosen zones. They are a bit pricier than the U-Pass but still a good deal for frequent travelers.
You can get your Compass Card to use your monthly passes.
3- Additional transportation options
What other transportation options are available? Vancouver offers many. You can use bike-sharing programs like Mobi. A monthly pass costs $20.00 for unlimited 30-minute rides.
Car-sharing services like Evo and Car2Go are also popular. These are great for short trips but can add up if used often.
What are the Other Monthly Expenses for Students in Vancouver?
Living in Vancouver as a student means managing other regular monthly expenses.
These costs can add up quickly, so let’s break them down.
1- Mobile phone plans
Mobile phone plans in Vancouver can vary depending on the company that you can get the service.
On average, you might spend between $30 to $80 per month.
While there are different mobile phone plans, student discounts can help you to save some money.
You should always compare plans to find the best deal.
2- Utilities
Expect to pay around $80 to $150 monthly for utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage.
Internet costs can range from $50 to $100 per month depending on the provider and speed.
Utilities can be higher in winter due to heating costs. Make sure your rental agreement clarifies what utilities are included.
If you rent a room or book for a homestay, these utilities should be included into your rent expense.
3- Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is essential for students.
Plans from providers like Shaw range from $50 to $80 per month.
Look for student plans or bundle deals to reduce costs.
Shared living can help split this expense among roommates.
4- Gym memberships
There are so many affordable and luxury options when it comes to gym memberships in Vancouver.
Students expect to pay between $30 to $60 per month if they would like to stay fit.
What are Entertainment Costs for Students in Vancouver?
Living in Vancouver comes with its perks, especially for students who love to unwind after classes.
1- Concerts
Are concerts in Vancouver expensive for students?
Yes, they can be. Tickets for popular artists like Coldplay, Miley Cyrus or RHCP range from $250 to $1,000.
If you’re into smaller, local gigs, you might spend around $20 to $40.
The Ticketmaster website is a great place to check for upcoming events and prices.
Remember to budget for these events, as they can add up quickly.
2- Movies
How much do movie tickets cost in Vancouver?
A standard movie ticket at Cineplex costs about $13.
If you want to watch in IMAX or 3D, expect to pay around $17.
For students, Tuesdays are the best days to catch a film, as ticket prices drop to about $8.
Don’t forget the cost of snacks, which can be another $10 to $15.
Check the Cineplex website for deals and discounts.
3- Other entertainment activities
What other fun activities can students do in Vancouver?
There are plenty of options. You can visit museums for about $15 per entry.
Outdoor activities like camping are also great activities to have fun in Vancouver. Those are usually free but if you go to some camping sites, it may cost $20 to $50 for the entrance fee.
What are Budgeting Tips for Students?
We would like to help you to reduce some of your costs of living in Vancouver. We briefly prepared some tips to save money on some of your spending.
Creating a budget is key to managing the cost of living in Vancouver as a student.
First, list all your monthly expenses, including rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation costs.
Then, compare these to your income, whether it’s from financial aid, part-time jobs, or family support.
Use budgeting apps to track your spending and ensure you stay within your limits.
Cost-saving strategies
To reduce your monthly expenses, consider cooking at home instead of dining out.
Knowing how to find an affordable rental room in Vancouver will help you save so much money.
Grocery prices in Vancouver can be high, so shop at discount stores or farmers’ markets.
Take advantage of student discounts on transportation, entertainment, and even mobile phone plans.
Sharing housing with roommates can also significantly cut down on rent and utility costs.
Student resources for financial aid
There are various resources available to help students manage the cost of living in Vancouver.
Many universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries.
Check out MyMoneyCoach for tips on managing your finances and finding additional funding sources.
Conclusion for the Cost of Living in Vancouver
Living in Vancouver as a student can be expensive, but it’s possible to manage with good planning.
The total cost of living in Vancouver as a student includes several key expenses.
First, let’s talk about accommodation costs in Vancouver for students.
On-campus housing is convenient but can range from CAD 800 to CAD 1,200 per month.
Off-campus apartments might be cheaper but vary widely, from CAD 1,000 to CAD 2,000 depending on the area and amenities.
Homestays offer a more affordable option, usually around CAD 900 to CAD 1,200 per month, including meals.
Sharing an apartment can significantly reduce costs, with shared living arrangements averaging CAD 600 to CAD 1,000 per person.
Next, food expenses are another major part of the monthly cost of living in Vancouver.
Grocery costs can range from CAD 200 to CAD 400 per month.
Dining out is more expensive, with an average meal costing around CAD 15 to CAD 20.
Transportation is essential, and the U-Pass program offers students unlimited transit for CAD 42.50 per month.
Regular monthly expenses include mobile phone plans, utilities, Wi-Fi, and gym memberships, which can add up to CAD 150 to CAD 200.
Entertainment costs, like concerts and movies, vary but can be managed with student discounts.
Use cost-saving tips and seek financial aid when needed. Plan well, and you can enjoy student life in Vancouver without breaking the bank.
FAQ
How do utility costs differ between seasons (e.g., winter vs. summer) in Vancouver?
Utility costs in Vancouver can vary significantly between seasons. During the winter, heating costs typically increase due to the colder weather, leading to higher electricity or natural gas bills. In contrast, summer utility costs are generally lower, as heating is not required, and Vancouver's moderate climate reduces the need for air conditioning. On average, students should expect to pay around CAD 80 to CAD 150 per month for utilities, but this amount can rise during the winter months.
Are there student discounts available for cultural and recreational activities in Vancouver?
Yes, Vancouver offers various student discounts for cultural and recreational activities. Many museums, theaters, and galleries provide reduced admission fees for students with a valid student ID. For instance, the Vancouver Art Gallery and Science World offer discounted rates for students. Additionally, students can often find deals on gym memberships, fitness classes, and outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding at nearby resorts. Always check with the specific venue for the most up-to-date discounts.
What are the living costs associated with different neighborhoods in Vancouver?
Living costs in Vancouver vary widely depending on the neighborhood. Here’s a breakdown:
Downtown Vancouver: The most expensive area, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from CAD 2,000 to CAD 2,800 per month.
Kitsilano and Mount Pleasant: Popular among students, with rents between CAD 1,800 and CAD 2,300.
East Vancouver: More affordable, with one-bedroom apartments costing CAD 1,600 to CAD 2,100.
South Vancouver and Marpole: Generally more budget-friendly, with rents starting around CAD 1,500. Each neighborhood offers different amenities and proximity to schools, which should be considered when choosing where to live.
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