5 best cities to live in Canada for an international student

Canada By Mitchell Steiman April 20, 2022

Going to study  abroad is a dream come true. However, for everything to work out, you need to plan and prepare well before the trip takes place! The first step is to decide where you are going. One of the main choices of students is Canada, but many are still in doubt when it comes to choosing the best city within the country.

If this is your case, no need to worry. We have separated below a list with the 5 best cities to live in Canada for an international student. Follow us and find out!

Best cities to live in Canada: where to study abroad?

Check out below the 5 best cities to live in Canada and decide where to do your exchange program right now!

1 — Toronto

Toronto is one of the best cities to live in Canada, and one of the most famous too. Located in the southeast of the country, the city is still close to the US border, which means that it is relatively easy for students to get to know some US cities.

As the most populous city in Canada, Toronto is home to the cultural, financial, and historical center of the country. This makes the city a great option for those who like big metropolises with busy nightlife.

2 — Vancouver

A bit smaller than Toronto, Vancouver is another of the most popular destinations for those going to Canada. Located at the west end of the country, the city is on the coast, which means that in the summer it is possible to enjoy its beaches and cool off in the sea.

Because it attracts so many immigrants, Vancouver is a multicultural city. This makes it great for students who want to have the opportunity to meet people from different countries. It is certainly one of the best cities to live in Canada!

3 — Montreal

Located in the French influenced area, Montreal is called the Paris of the Americas. The architectural style of its buildings has a great European influence, giving an extra charm to the city. In addition, both English and French are spoken there, creating new opportunities for students that want to learn a new language.

The best universities in Canada are also located in Montreal. For those who want to study and meet Canada’s intellectual elite, this is undoubtedly one of the best cities to live in Canada.

4 — Quebec

Quebec is one of the oldest cities in Canada. Located in the province of the same name, its main language is French, and for sure Quebec doesn’t deny its ties with France.

Located by the St. Lawrence River, Quebec has a charming and romantic architecture, with cobblestone streets and century-old buildings. It is very lively throughout the year, hosting many cultural events that are famous throughout Canada.

5 — Ottawa

Finally, we cannot miss the capital of Canada! Yes, Ottawa is not as famous as the other best cities to live in Canada on this list, but it is the official capital of the country. Located near Toronto, it is a little smaller than its neighbor, but offers many of the same amenities.

In addition, Ottawa is home to one of the country’s most famous winter festivals, Winterlude, and is a great city to enjoy the best of the cold seasons, being next to a river that becomes one big ice rink between December and February.

Need money to travel to Canada? Western Union can help you

Now that you know the best cities to live in Canada, you can use Western Union app to transfer money for your trip to Canada.

It’s quite easy to make a transfer using Western Union. You can simulate your operation before sending, so you can check the exchange rates1 for your transfer!

Download our app and start using it right now. You can also check our Terms & Conditions here.


1 Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice.

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