As an international student with dreams of studying in Canada, choosing the best city to study in Canada is crucial for a fulfilling academic experience. The best cities not only offer quality education but also provide a supportive community for international students. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of studying in the best cities in Canada and discuss the top ten cities that cater to both academic and lifestyle needs.
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Benefits of Studying in Best Cities in Canada 2024
Choosing the right city to study in Canada comes with numerous benefits:
- Supportive Student Community: The best cities boast a supportive student community that can be a valuable resource in times of need.
- Well-Planned Lifestyle: These cities often provide a well-planned lifestyle, offering subsidized public transport and student discounts.
- Part-Time Job Opportunities: Many of these cities present part-time job opportunities for international students, enhancing the overall experience.
Top 10 Cities in Canada to Study & Work
1. Montreal
- QS Ranking 2024: 90.9
- Best Universities: McGill University, University of Montréal, HEC Montréal, Concordia University, Polytechnic School of Montreal, Université du Québec à Montréal
- Cost of Living: 1600 – 2700 CAD
- Notable Attractions: Old Montreal, Quartier Des Spectacles, Montreal’s Science and Arts Museum, Olympic Stadium
Reason:
- Strong and diverse international community
- Lowest crime rate in Canada
- Smooth conveyance with well-defined and affordable transportation
Is it worth studying in Montreal? Absolutely! Awarded among the top study destinations globally, Montreal offers a pool of opportunities for international students.
2. Toronto
- QS Ranking 2024: 92.1
- Best Universities: University of Toronto, York University, Centennial College, Humber College, TSOM, Niagara College, and Fleming College
- Cost of Living: 1500- 2500 CAD per month
- Notable Attractions: Niagara Falls, Breweries, St. Lawrence Market, CN Tower
Reason:
- Hub for businesses offering plenty of job opportunities
- Student-friendly neighborhood with ample networking opportunities
- Top business schools with affordable tuition fees
Is it worth studying in Toronto? Yes, with a diverse range of courses, Toronto is a hub for Finance and Business studies.
3. Vancouver
- QS Ranking 2024: 88.7
- Best Universities: University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Canada West, Vancouver Island University, Columbia College, Langara College
- Cost of Living: 2,500 – 3,500 CAD
- Notable Attractions: Sea-to-Sky Highway, Vancouver Museum of Anthropology, Stanley Park, ChinaTown
Reason:
- Vancouver is renowned for its higher employer activity metrics
- Students have abundant internship and placement opportunities
- Vibrant immigrant communities
Is it worth studying in Vancouver? Absolutely! Vancouver offers a vibrant and adventurous experience for students.
Check the best colleges in Vancouver and the best MBA universities in Vancouver.
4. Ottawa
- QS Ranking 2024: 88.7
- Best Universities: University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Algonquin College, Dominican University College, Augustine College
- Cost of Living: 2,000 – 2,500 CAD
- Notable Attractions: Skating, Parliament, Chateau, Beach
Reason:
- As the capital of Canada, it offers significant opportunities in government, technology, healthcare, etc.
- Pedestrian and transit-friendly city
- A multilingual city with a home to a lot of immigrants
Is it worth studying in Ottawa? Ottawa provides excellent research facilities in Science and Technology amidst scenic views.
5. Quebec City
- QS Ranking 2024: 57.5
- Best Universities: Laval University
- Cost of Living: 1,500 – 1,800 CAD
- Notable Attractions: Walk along the fortification, Zipline at Parc De La Chute Montmorency, Parc National De La Jacques Cartier, Quebec Festival
Reason:
- The highest employment rate among all cities in Canada consistently
- Modern society with a booming job market
- Second largest metropolitan city with smooth transit
Is it worth studying in Quebec? Yes, Quebec offers affordable education, post-study work permits, and shorter duration courses.
6. Edmonton
- Best Universities: University of Alberta, MacEwan University, Concordia University of Edmonton, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
- Cost of Living: 1600- 2200 CAD per month
- Notable Attractions: Edmonton Mall, Elk Island National Park, Beaver Hills, Edmonton Park
Reason:
- Diverse economy with employment in various sectors
- One of the youngest and fastest-growing cities
- Listed among the most affordable cities
Is it worth studying in Edmonton? Absolutely! Edmonton offers a culturally rich life and a lavish lifestyle at affordable prices.
7. Calgary
- Best Universities: University of Calgary, Bow Valley College, The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Mount Royal University
- Cost of Living: 1,800 – 2,000 CAD per Month
- Notable Attractions: Calgary Tower, Calgary Zoo, Calgary Stampede, Entertainment District
Reason:
- Low tax rates, gas prices as well as affordable housing
- Ample opportunities in Canada’s oil industry
- Well-connected and planned city
Is it worth studying in Calgary? Yes, especially for those interested in sustainability, energy studies, and renewable sources.
8. Ontario
- Best Universities: University of Toronto, McMaster University, University of Waterloo, Western University, Queen’s University
- Cost of Living: 1,500 – 2,200 CAD per month
- Notable Attractions: Grotto, Flowerpot Island, Diefenbunker, Cheltenham Badlands
Reason:
- Economic heart of Canada with different kinds of industries
- Top job positions with some of the highest salaries
- Safe, quiet and serene environment
Is it worth studying in Ontario? Certainly! Ontario offers a mix of cultural diversity, top universities, and ample job opportunities.
9. British Columbia
- Best Universities: University of British Columbia, University of the Fraser Valley, University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University
- Cost of Living: 1,800 – 2,500 CAD per month
- Notable Attractions: Yoho National Park, Okanagan Valley, Victoria Inner Harbour
Reason:
- Supportive and close-knit communities
- Small town with all urban amenities
- Have a plethora of cultural sites to enjoy
Is it worth studying in British Columbia? Absolutely! BC provides a natural setting and top-notch education.
10. Waterloo
- Best Universities: University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, St. Paul’s University College
- Cost of Living: 2,400 – 3,200 CAD per month
- Notable Attractions: Waterloo museums, Kissing Bridge, Laurel Creek
Reason:
- Number 1 in Canada for graduate employment rate
- Very safe and peaceful environment for families and students
- Competitive salary packages
Is it worth studying at Waterloo? Definitely! Known as the tech hub of Canada, Waterloo offers immediate job opportunities after graduation.
Click here to know about the easiest provinces to get PR in Canada
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the cheapest places to live in Canada include Brockville, Ontario; Val-d’Or, Quebec; Longueuil, Quebec; Weyburn, Saskatchewan, and more. While the mentioned cities provide affordability, each Canadian town is known for its scenic beauty and innovation.
You may also check this post: Life in Canada here
For those seeking employment in Canada, the top five cities known for job opportunities are Toronto, Calgary, Ottawa, Vancouver, and Montreal, based on the 2023 data.
New Brunswick: Recognized for its swift responses to eligible candidates addressing specific economic and labor market needs, New Brunswick stands out as one of the easiest provinces in Canada to obtain Permanent Residency.
International students may bring their spouses or dependents to Canada on a study permit or as visitors. However, they must meet certain eligibility criteria and provide proof of financial support.
Yes, universities require international students to have health insurance coverage while studying in Canada. Some universities may offer health insurance plans, while others require students to enroll in provincial health insurance programs.
In recent years, Ottawa has been the top destination for tourists in Canada.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada is not just an academic journey; it’s a holistic experience. The country’s welcoming nature, coupled with scenic landscapes and innovative cities, makes it an ideal destination for international students. For more detailed information on Canada, feel free to connect with our professionals to address all your queries efficiently.