Choosing where to study in Canada is just as important as choosing what to study. Canada is home to some of the world’s top-ranked universities, but the experience you’ll have outside the classroom matters just as much—especially when you’re far from home.
In this post, we’ll walk you through five of the best cities in Canada for international students in 2025, based on factors like education quality, affordability, lifestyle, and career opportunities after graduation.
1. Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is Canada’s largest city and a true melting pot of cultures. It’s home to world-renowned universities like the University of Toronto, Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University), and York University.
Why students love Toronto:
- Massive international community — you’ll find friends from all over the world
- Tons of part-time job opportunities
- Vibrant city life with events, concerts, and food from every culture
- Reliable public transit system
Things to consider:
- One of the most expensive cities in Canada
- Highly competitive housing market
Fun Fact: Toronto hosts more than 100 festivals a year—including one just for poutine!
2. Vancouver, British Columbia
If you love nature and city life, Vancouver might be your dream destination. Located on the west coast, Vancouver offers breathtaking mountain views, beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Top institutions:
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Simon Fraser University (SFU)
Why students love Vancouver:
- Mild winters (especially compared to the rest of Canada!)
- Strong tech and startup job market
- Beautiful, clean city with plenty of outdoor activities
Things to consider:
- Housing can be pricey
- Fewer universities compared to Toronto or Montreal
3. Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is Canada’s cultural capital, where European charm meets North American convenience. It’s a bilingual city (French and English), and one of the most affordable major cities in Canada.
Top institutions:
- McGill University
- Université de Montréal
- Concordia University
Why students love Montreal:
- Affordable rent and living costs
- Rich in arts, music, and food culture
- Strong research and academic reputation
Things to consider:
- French is widely spoken—you might need to learn the basics
- Winters can be long and cold (but beautiful!)
4. Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital is more than just politics. Ottawa is a safe, bilingual city with a high quality of life and strong academic institutions.
Top institutions:
- University of Ottawa
- Carleton University
Why students love Ottawa:
- Bilingual environment: great for learning English and French
- High safety ranking
- Plenty of green space and biking trails
Things to consider:
- Slower pace compared to Toronto or Montreal
- Colder winters with lots of snow
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Looking for a smaller city with a big heart? Halifax on the East Coast might be perfect for you. It’s known for its friendly locals and top-quality education.
Top institutions:
- Dalhousie University
- Saint Mary’s University
Why students love Halifax:
- Welcoming and tight-knit student community
- Lower cost of living compared to larger cities
- Coastal lifestyle—great seafood and ocean views!
Things to consider:
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities
- Fewer international flights in and out
Final Thoughts
Canada is filled with amazing cities, and there’s no one-size-fits-all choice. Whether you want the excitement of Toronto or the charm of Halifax, there’s a city that fits your study goals and lifestyle.
Need help figuring out which Canadian city is right for you? Reach out to one of our advisors at 1-A Education—we’re here to guide you every step of the way!