Cost of Living for International Students in Winnipeg

Canada is a popular destination for international students. This is thanks to its offering a bilingual environment, world-class education, and great opportunities to gain work experience after graduating. However, before you submit your application to study in Winnipeg, it is imperative that you understand the cost of living for international students here.

Winnipeg is the capital and the largest city in the province of Manitoba. It is centered on the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers and only 110 kilometers (70miles) north of the Canada – United States border. The city gets its name from the nearby Lake Winnipeg. The reason most people opt to study and live in Winnipeg is because the cost of living here is lower when compared to other top cities around the globe. Even so, it is still important to understand how much it really costs to live here.

Housing in Winnipeg

On-Campus

If you want to focus on your education and fully participate in all student life events, it is not a great idea to work while attending school. In this case, living on campus makes the most sense. The cost of accommodation on campus varies depending on the university or college you are attending and the facility you choose. At the McFeetors Hall, for example, the cost of meals and accommodations is between $7,723 and $9,872 per year. At Lions Manor, accommodation only costs between $4,388 and $5,250. With most accommodation options you will have to pay an additional $95 winter break fee plus $44 tenant insurance per term.

Off-Campus

While living on campus as a student is the best way to make lasting friendships and excel in your studies, it is always good to consider the cost of off-campus living. This is more so if you prefer the freedom that comes with living off-campus or if you have a family.

The first thing you will notice is that Winnipeg has some of the lowest costs of rent in Canada. This is one of the main reasons why the city is perfect for newcomers who wish to find their own place to live once they arrive in Canada without sharing an address with roommates.

According to a recent study by Numbeo.com, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Winnipeg is about $1,027 CAD. In the suburbs, an equivalent sized apartment costs about $970 CAD. The rental prices in Winnipeg are about 12% cheaper than equivalent properties in Hamilton, Ontario.

Other Living Arrangements

If off-campus living is what you want but don’t want to spend as much money on housing, there are a few options you will have. They include the following:

Homestay: This is where you live with a host family that provides you with a private room and daily meals for a monthly fee. You can ask for the availability of homestay programs through your preferred institution.
Family and friends: Do you have friends or family in Manitoba? Why not live with them?
Minor students: If you are below the age of 18, you have to show proof of custodianship. You will not be allowed to live alone.
Bed and breakfast: If you arrive and you are not able to access your long-term accommodation, you can opt for hotels or even bed and breakfast.

The cost of housing in Winnipeg depends on its location, size, age, and overall condition of the building. Some facilities charge more for added services such as meals.

Cost of Food in Winnipeg

Expenses for food fit right next to accommodation expenses. The cost of food varies depending on your eating habits and your preference for cuisine. An average meal in Winnipeg costs between $10 and $15 CAD per person. However, if you prefer to cook your own food, you can expect to spend less. On average, a student spends between $1,500 and $3,000 CAD per year on food.

Here is the average cost of common items:

Bread $2.15
Milk $2.40
Chicken $7
X12 eggs $1.76
Bottled water $1.76
Coffee $3.28

Transport in Winnipeg

Winnipeg, like any Canadian city, is not known for its public transport system. The cold winters and spread-out nature of the city force residents to opt for a car before the bus. However, if you choose to use public transport, you should note that Winnipeg has a comprehensive bus service. You can even get a monthly transport pass which goes for about $100 CAD. A bus ticket costs $2.35.

If you prefer to drive in your own car, the cost of gas is about $1.11 per liter. Car insurance is about $190.

If you are a cycling enthusiast, you will love it in Winnipeg. The city has an extensive bike path network that covers almost every part of the city. There is also so much flatland. You can be certain that you will not have any trouble navigating your way to and from school.

Phone Contract

You will want to get a phone as soon as you arrive in Manitoba. Doing so will help keep the calling costs low and have easy access to the Internet. Bell is the largest Internet provider in Canada. They offer packages that range from $50 to $115 CAD per month. It is easy to find a phone plan too for as low as $20 CAD per month.

Health Insurance

As an international student, you will be required to have health insurance. In Manitoba, you will be covered under provincial health plans. This will depend on how long you plan on staying. When traveling to other provinces, you will be required to arrange for private health insurance.

All things considered, Winnipeg is one of the most affordable cities to live in while studying in Canada. The city has a convenient location, it is culturally-rich and is home to some of the best schools and attractions. However, in addition to the living costs, it is imperative that you know what to expect from tuition fees. The fees will depend on the institution you enroll in. It is also possible to apply for scholarships in Canada to help with these costs. If you are searching for the best modern student residences in Manitoba – ARC is the place to be.