Living and Accommodation in Canada for Pakistani Students 2025

For thousands of Pakistani students, studying in Canada is a dream — not just for its world-class universities, but also for the quality of life the country offers. From modern cities like Toronto and Vancouver to peaceful student towns like Halifax and Regina, Canada provides a comfortable and multicultural environment for international students.

However, adjusting to a new country involves more than academics. Understanding living and accommodation options in Canada helps Pakistani students budget wisely and adapt smoothly to their new lifestyle abroad.

Overview of Living in Canada for International Students

Canada is consistently ranked among the best countries for quality of life, with clean cities, safety, and a welcoming environment. Pakistani students find it relatively easy to integrate because of the multicultural society and strong South Asian communities across the country.

Popular Student Cities in Canada:

City	Features	Average Monthly Cost (CAD)
Toronto	Financial hub, diverse community, high cost	1,500 – 2,500
Vancouver	Scenic beauty, tech jobs, high rent	1,400 – 2,200
Montreal	Affordable, French-English mix	1,200 – 1,800
Ottawa	Safe and organized, government city	1,200 – 1,700
Winnipeg	Low rent, affordable living	1,000 – 1,400

Accommodation Options for Pakistani Students

Canadian universities offer a wide range of housing choices for international students, each with its own benefits and costs.

On-Campus Housing (University Dorms)
- Available at most universities and colleges.
- Rent includes basic utilities, internet, and sometimes meal plans.
- Cost: CAD 800–1,200 per month.
- Benefits: Close to campus, safe, and ideal for first-year students.
Off-Campus Apartments
- Shared apartments or private rooms outside campus.
- Rent depends on location and facilities.
- Cost: CAD 700–1,500 per month.
- Benefits: More privacy and independence.
Homestay (Living with a Canadian Family)
- Students stay with local families who provide meals and support.
- Cost: CAD 900–1,200 per month (meals included).
- Benefits: Cultural immersion and family-like environment.
Shared Accommodation
- Most Pakistani students prefer shared housing to reduce costs.
- Cost: CAD 400–800 per month per person.
- Benefits: Budget-friendly and social experience.

Average Living Expenses in Canada

Living expenses include rent, food, transportation, health insurance, and other essentials. The cost may vary based on city, lifestyle, and housing choice.

Expense Type	Average Monthly Cost (CAD)	Equivalent in PKR (Approx.)
Accommodation (shared)	700 – 1,000	150,000 – 220,000
Food & Groceries	250 – 400	55,000 – 90,000
Utilities & Internet	100 – 150	22,000 – 33,000
Transportation	100 – 150	22,000 – 33,000
Health Insurance	50 – 80	11,000 – 18,000
Miscellaneous	100 – 200	22,000 – 45,000
Total Estimated Cost	1,300 – 2,000 CAD/month	290,000 – 440,000 PKR/month

Conclusion

Living in Canada as a Pakistani student can be both exciting and manageable with proper planning. The country offers safe housing, modern infrastructure, and excellent support services for international students. Whether you choose to live on-campus or off-campus, your experience will be enriched by Canada’s diversity, cleanliness, and warmth.

By managing expenses smartly and embracing local culture, Pakistani students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while pursuing their educational goals in Canada.