Housing

Most Affordable Cities in Canada For Students 2027

November 3, 2026

Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. It attracts international students seeking exceptional academic opportunities, but studying abroad can be financially challenging.

In 2027, Quebec City is Canada’s most affordable city for students, with a one-bedroom averaging about $1,195 a month. Regina, Edmonton, and Saskatoon follow at about $1,250, while Halifax is the most expensive on this list at about $2,100 (Zumper, October 2026).

That is why we have compiled a list of the 10 most affordable cities in Canada for students, where they can pursue their education without breaking the bank. We rank cities from lowest to highest average one-bedroom rent. If you are looking at Ontario specifically, see our guide to the most affordable cities in Ontario for students.

The Most Affordable Cities in Canada for Students 2027

1. Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is the most affordable city on this list in 2027, with a one-bedroom averaging about $1,195 a month and a two-bedroom about $1,395 (Zumper, October 2026). Rents are down from a year ago, which gives students more room to negotiate. The city is home to Laval University, one of Canada’s oldest and most respected institutions, and students can study in French while living in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.

Old Quebec offers cobblestone streets, the Château Frontenac, the Plains of Abraham, and the Terrasse Dufferin, all free or low-cost to explore. Affordable dining ranges from traditional Quebecois cuisine and poutine to international flavors, and a lively arts scene with galleries, theatres, and festivals keeps student life full without a big budget.

2. Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina is a hidden gem for students seeking affordability and quality education. A one-bedroom averages about $1,247 a month and a two-bedroom about $1,497, both lower than a year earlier. The University of Regina offers a wide range of programs in a supportive learning environment, and low rents let students stretch their budgets and focus on their studies. Wascana Park offers walking, jogging, and picnicking right in the city. Regina also has museums, galleries,s and theatres, and it hosts events such as the Regina Folk Festival and the Cathedral Village Arts Festival, giving students plenty of ways to connect with the local community.

3. Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton, Alberta’s capital, keeps rents far below Vancouver and Toronto. A one-bedroom averages about $1,250 a month, and a two-bedroom about $1,580, both slightly down from last year. The University of Alberta, MacEwan University,ty and NAIT draw students across many disciplines, and apartments and shared housing are widely available at moderate prices. The city has a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Students can visit the Art Gallery of Alberta, attend a performance at the Citadel Theatre or tour the Royal Alberta Museum. Festivals such as the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival and the Edmonton Folk Music Festival run year-round.

4. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 2027 — Saskatoon

Saskatoon, in the heart of the Canadian prairies, offers a cost-effective yet enriching student experience. A one-bedroom averages about $1,260 a month and a two-bedroom about $1,525, with rents down from last year. The University of Saskatchewan, renowned for its research programs, attracts students from around the world, and housing and transportation remain affordable. Students can explore the Remai Modern Art Museum, catch a show at Persephone Theatre, or hear live music across the city. The Meewasin Valley Trail runs along the South Saskatchewan River, and summer brings canoeing, kayaking,g and paddleboarding close to campus.

5. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg is known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable cost of living. A one-bedroom averages about $1,395 a month and a two-bedroom about $1,700, and two-bedroom rents have dropped notably over the past year. The University of Manitoba, the University of Winnipeg, and Red River College Polytechnic offer a wide range of programs with strong academic reputations, and many affordable housing options. The city has a rich arts and music scene, with galleries, theatres,s and many parks for hiking and biking. Events such as the Winnipeg Folk Festival and the Festival du Voyageur let students experience the city’s diverse culture and connect with the community.

6. Fredericton, New Brunswick

Fredericton, New Brunswick 2027 — Fredericton, New Brunswick

Fredericton, New Brunswick’s capital, offers a welcoming and affordable environment for students. A one-bedroom averages about $1,460 a month and a two-bedroom about $1,635, though listing volume is low, so prices can vary. The University of New Brunswick, one of Canada’s oldest universities, anchors the city alongside St. Thomas University and NBCC. The Garrison District and the Historic Garrison Cemetery showcase the city’s history. Students can visit the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, attend performances at the Playhouse and enjoy a lively music scene, all in a compact, walkable city.

7. Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton, Ontario 2027 — Hamilton, Ontario

About an hour from Toronto, Hamilton remains a more affordable alternative to the GTA core. A one-bedroom averages about $1,580 a month and a two-bedroom about $1,995. McMaster University, set beside the Niagara Escarpment, is known for research and academic excellence, and Mohawk College adds strong college programs. Students can take advantage of affordable housing options and a lower cost of living than Toronto. Waterfalls, hiking trails, and conservation areas are nearby. Students can visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, explore the Bruce Trail or cycle along the waterfront, and enjoy the city’s galleries, theatres, and festivals.

8. London, Ontario

Located in southwestern Ontario, London offers an affordable living environment for students. A one-bedroom averages about $1,625 a month and a two-bedroom about $2,025 (Zumper, October 2026). The city is home to Western University and Fanshawe College, two institutions with excellent academic opportunities and a wide range of programs. London offers beautiful parks like Victoria Park, a lively live-music scene, and affordable dining, from ethnic restaurants to cafes and food markets. Public transit makes getting around the city convenient and affordable.

9. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island 2027 — Charlottetown

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island’s capital, offers a unique student experience on a small island. The University of Prince Edward Island, known for small class sizes and personalized education, and Holland College attract students from many fields. Rental listings are limited, and rents are rising on PEI, so students should book early; we could not verify a reliable current average rent for this city, so we rank it based on available market information.

The city is surrounded by beaches for swimming, kayaking, and beachcombing, and its historic downtown has charming architecture, shops, and restaurants. Events such as the Charlottetown Festival and Old Home Week let students experience local culture.

10. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia 2027 — Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, on Canada’s east coast, still offers a vibrant student experience, but it is now the priciest city on this list. A one-bedroom averages about $2,100 a month and a two-bedroom about $2,550, each up year over year. It remains home to Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University, and students who share housing or live outside the peninsula can cut costs. The historic waterfront, Peggy’s Cove, a thriving music and arts scene, and many student discounts keep daily life affordable.

Beaches, the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, and Point Pleasant Park let students connect with nature between classes. Canada offers many affordable cities where international and domestic students can pursue an education without compromising their budget. These cities combine low living costs with a diverse range of academic programs, cultural experiences, and recreational activities. Whether you choose the prairie value of Regina and Saskatoon or the European charm of Quebec City, you can find an affordable and enriching student experience in Canada.

FAQ: Affordable Cities in Canada for Students

Which is the most affordable city in Canada for students in 2027?

Quebec City is the most affordable city on this list, with an average one-bedroom rent of about $1,195 a month (Zumper, October 2026). Regina, Edmonton,n and Saskatoon follow at roughly $1,250 to $1,260.

Which Canadian city has the cheapest rent for students?

Quebec City has the lowest average one-bedroom rent among these ten cities, at about $1,195 a month, followed by Regina at about $1,247 and Edmonton at about $1,250.

Which city is the most expensive on this list?

Halifax, with a one-bedroom averaging about $2,100 a month and a two-bedroom about $2,550, both up from a year earlier.

Are prairie cities cheaper than Ontario for students?

Yes. Regina, Edmonton, Saskatoon, and Winnipeg average $1,247 to $1,395 for a one-bedroom, while Hamilton averages about $1,580 and London about $1,625.

How can international students save on rent in Canada?

Share a two-bedroom, live near campus or transit, apply early for residence, and compare listings on several sites. Cities where rents fell over the past year, such as Quebec City, Edmonton, and Regina, offer more room to negotiate.

How was this ranking made?

Zumper ranks cities from lowest to highest average one-bedroom rent using its October 2026 rent reports. Charlottetown could not be verified with current data and is placed by market information.