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Overview of Student Living Costs
The cost of living in St. John’s for students is more affordable than in larger Canadian cities, making it an attractive destination for international and domestic students. Located in St. John’s, the city offers a balance between reasonable expenses and a good quality of life.
On average, a student can expect to spend between $1,500 and $2,500 CAD per month, depending on lifestyle, housing choices, and personal spending habits. While rent is relatively affordable, some costs like groceries can be slightly higher due to the remote location in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Housing Costs for Students
Housing is the biggest expense for most students.
Average Monthly Rent:
| Type of Housing | Cost |
|---|---|
| Shared apartment | $500 – $900 |
| Student residence | $800 – $1,200 |
| 1-bedroom apartment | $1,100 – $1,500 |
Students attending Memorial University of Newfoundland often choose on-campus housing or shared apartments to reduce costs. Also, it is worth mentioning that the cost of living in St. John’s for students highly depends on the program you’ve chosen to take. Financial aid and scholarships can ease your study here.
Grocery Expenses
Food costs can vary depending on your eating habits.
Average Grocery Prices:
- Milk (1L): $2.50 – $3.20
- Bread: $3.00 – $4.50
- Eggs (12): $4.00 – $5.50
- Chicken (1kg): $12 – $18
Students often shop at stores like Walmart or Sobeys to save money.
Eating out is more expensive: a fast food meal ranges $10 – $15 and a restaurant meal $20 – $35.
Transportation Costs
Public transportation in St. John’s is limited but affordable.
Monthly Costs:
- Student bus pass: ~$70
- Single ride: ~$2.50
- Taxi: $10 – $20
The main system is Metrobus Transit; they have a website and a mobile app.
Tuition Fees and Education Costs
Tuition is a major factor in the overall budget.
At Memorial University of Newfoundland:
- Domestic students: $3,000 – $6,000/year
- International students: $11,000 – $20,000/year
Additional costs:
- Books: $500 – $1,000/year
- Supplies: $200 – $500/year
Part-Time Jobs and Student Income
Many students work part-time to help cover expenses and reduce the cost of living in St. John’s for students. Finding a job is relatively possible, especially in entry-level sectors.
Average Student Income:
- Minimum wage: ~$15/hour
- Monthly earnings (part-time): $800 – $1,500
Common Student Jobs
Retail Jobs
Typical roles:
- Sales associate
- Cashier
- Stock clerk
Where students work:
- Walmart
- Sobeys
- Shopping malls and local stores
Average pay: $14 – $17 per hour
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to find a job | Long hours on your feet |
| Flexible schedules | Weekend shifts required |
| No experience needed | Lower hourly pay |
Food Service Jobs
Food service jobs are extremely common and often hire students quickly.
Typical roles:
- Barista
- Server
- Kitchen assistant
- Fast food worker
Popular employers:
- McDonald’s
- Tim Hortons
Average pay: $14 – $16/hour + tips (for servers)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast hiring process | Physically demanding |
| Tips can increase income | Evening and night shifts |
| Good for social skills | Stressful during peak hours |
Campus Jobs
Working on campus is one of the best options for students studying at Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Average pay: $15 – $20/hour
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Close to classes | Limited positions available |
| Flexible for students | High competition |
| Better work-life balance | Fewer working hours |
Summary
The cost of living in St. John’s for students is relatively affordable compared to other Canadian cities, particularly when it comes to rent and transportation. Students can significantly reduce expenses by choosing shared housing, using public transit, and taking advantage of student discounts. While groceries and tuition fees can be higher due to the city’s remote location, careful budgeting and part-time work opportunities make student life financially manageable.
In addition, St. John’s offers a unique lifestyle that many students find appealing. The city is known for its safe environment, welcoming community, and slower pace of life, which can be ideal for focusing on studies. Unlike larger cities such as Toronto or Vancouver, students in St. John’s face less competition for housing and generally lower living expenses.
For those who value affordability, quality of life, and a supportive academic environment, St. John’s remains a strong option in 2026. With the right financial planning, students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while pursuing their education without excessive financial stress.