On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of Canadian cities in the QS Best Student Cities 2026
- Detailed rankings for Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver and Ottawa
- Top universities in each city
- Cost of living and student life in Canadian cities
- Career prospects for graduates in Canadian cities
Four Canadian cities have featured prominently in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 rankings: Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver and Ottawa. These cities continue to attract international students thanks to their high-quality education, cultural diversity, and vibrant city life.
Montréal: Canada’s Top-Ranked Student City
Montréal remains Canada’s best-performing city, ranked joint 18th globally. Known as the cultural capital of Canada, Montréal offers a rich blend of arts, culture, and a multilingual, multicultural environment.
It scored particularly well in the student view (ranked 12th) and student mix (18th), reflecting its diverse and welcoming atmosphere. Montréal also performed well in employer activity (27th), showing strong graduate employability.
Despite being an expensive city globally, Montréal remains more affordable than many other major student cities. With rent and living costs considerably lower than in London or New York, affordability ranks 95th.
Top Universities in Montréal
- McGill University – 27th globally
- Université de Montréal – 168th globally
- Concordia University – joint 465th globally
Cost of Living in Montréal
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages just over US$1,600 per month, with additional living costs around US$900 monthly.
Life and Career Opportunities
Montréal is a hub for tech, finance, pharmaceuticals, transportation, and creative industries. Being bilingual in French and English is a significant advantage for job seekers.
Toronto: A Diverse and Desirable Destination
Toronto ranks 22nd globally and is Canada’s second-highest city in the QS rankings. The city is praised for its diversity, inclusivity, and wide range of cultural and social activities. It scored 15th for student view and 17th for student mix.
Toronto excels in employer activity (18th globally), reflecting strong job prospects for graduates, particularly in finance, media, tourism, and data industries.
Top Universities in Toronto
- University of Toronto – 29th globally
- York University – 333rd globally
- Northeastern University – 384th globally
- Toronto Metropolitan University – 711-720th globally
Cost of Studying in Toronto
Toronto is Canada’s most expensive student city. International students pay an average of US$31,000 annually in tuition fees. Accommodation and general living expenses are also high, contributing to its low affordability ranking of 126th.
Life and Culture
Toronto offers a vibrant cultural scene, from the iconic CN Tower to a bustling waterfront and numerous international restaurants. The city’s transportation network, the TTC, makes it easy to explore.
Career Prospects
Graduates can find abundant job opportunities in Toronto’s financial sector and growing tech, media, and tourism industries.
Vancouver: A Natural Playground with Academic Prestige
Vancouver ranks 29th globally, known for its stunning natural surroundings and high quality of life. The city is ideal for students who value the outdoors, with access to mountains, beaches, and forests.
It ranks 19th in desirability and 23rd in employer activity, showing that its graduates are well-regarded by employers.
Top Universities in Vancouver
- University of British Columbia – 40th globally
- Simon Fraser University – joint 308th globally
- Northeastern University – 384th globally
Cost of Studying in Vancouver
Vancouver’s affordability ranking is 128th due to high living and tuition costs. International students pay around US$29,800 annually in tuition fees.
Student Life
Vancouver is a cultural hub with vibrant nightlife, theatres, and music. The city’s efficient transport system makes it easy to explore the city’s diverse districts and natural beauty.
Career Prospects
Vancouver’s economy thrives in international trade, film and television, construction, and tourism. The Port of Vancouver is Canada’s largest, supporting global commerce.
Ottawa: Canada’s Capital for Students
Ottawa ranks 80th globally but offers a more affordable and quieter alternative to larger Canadian cities. It ranks well for desirability (21st) and affordability (joint 84th).
Top Universities in Ottawa
- University of Ottawa – joint 237th globally
- Carleton University – 601-650th globally
Cost of Living in Ottawa
Living costs are notably lower than in Toronto or Vancouver. Rent for a city-centre apartment averages under US$1,300 monthly, with other living expenses around US$948.
Cultural Life and Attractions
Ottawa offers rich history and culture, from the Rideau Canal to the Canadian Museum of History. Festivals like Winterlude and sports teams add to student life.
Career Opportunities
Ottawa is home to Canada’s federal government and boasts a thriving high-tech sector, earning it the nickname “Silicon Valley North.” Companies like Shopify and IBM have a presence in the city.
Unique Benefits
Canada’s leading cities continue to attract students globally with their academic excellence, vibrant cultures, and career prospects. Whether it is the cultural charm of Montréal, the diversity of Toronto, the natural beauty of Vancouver, or the political and tech hub of Ottawa, each city offers unique benefits to international students.
FAQ
Which Canadian city ranks highest in the QS Best Student Cities 2026?
Montréal is the highest-ranked Canadian city, placed joint 18th globally. It is recognised for its cultural vibrancy, multilingual environment, and student satisfaction.
What is the most affordable Canadian city for students?
Among the ranked cities, Ottawa is the most affordable. Rent and general living costs are lower than in Toronto and Vancouver, making it easier on student budgets.
Which Canadian city offers the best career prospects after graduation?
Toronto offers the strongest career prospects, especially in finance, media, and technology sectors. Its employer activity ranking is 18th globally.
What is the cost of living for international students in Canada?
Costs vary by city. In Montréal, rent averages US$1,600, while in Toronto and Vancouver it is higher. Monthly living expenses are around US$900 to US$1,000.
Are Canadian universities competitive globally?
Yes, several Canadian universities rank highly globally. McGill University in Montréal and the University of Toronto are among the top 30 in the QS World University Rankings.
