Cost of Living in Burlington, ON: Updated Prices [2024]

Burlington, Ontario, is a city located between Toronto and Hamilton, making it a desirable place to live and study for many students. However, the cost of living in Burlington can be a concern for those considering a move here for higher studies. But what are the main expenses a student should anticipate when considering the cost of living in Burlington, ON?

 In this article, we’ll explore the various factors contributing to the cost of living in Burlington, ON, and offer insights into managing expenses effectively. Let’s explore the cost of living in Burlington, ON, so you can be well-prepared for a smooth transition as you pursue your studies in Canada.

Cost of Living in Burlington, Ontario Overview

The average monthly cost of living in Burlington, ON for a single person is roughly CAD 3124. This estimate includes rent, ranging from CAD 1788 to CAD 2,438 for a one-bedroom apartment. On average, food expenses amount to about CAD 757 per month, and transportation costs are around CAD 117 monthly.

International students’ overall cost of living in Burlington, ON, can vary based on lifestyle, living location, and personal preferences. This detailed overview of living expenses provides essential information for people planning to study at Burlington, helping them manage their finances more effectively.

Also read: Cost of Living in Canada: Detailed Guide [2024]

Costs of Accommodation in Burlington, ON

Housing is one of the most significant contributors to the cost of living in Burlington. The city’s real estate market has experienced growth due to its desirable location and strong community amenities. Renting an apartment or house in Burlington can be expensive, especially in popular neighbourhoods. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs around CAD 1788 to CAD 2438 per month.

Suburban areas may offer slightly lower rents, but the difference is not substantial. Gaining insight into the rental cost will help you find accommodation that suits your needs and stays within your budget. Burlington. Here is a summary of the average rental prices for various types of apartments, whether located in the city centre or beyond:

Apartment Type	Location	Approx. Monthly Cost
1 bedroom	in the City Centre	CAD 2438
1 bedroom	Outside of Centre	CAD 1788
3 bedrooms	in the City Centre	CAD 3137
3 bedrooms	Outside of Centre	CAD 2864

Cost of a Utility in Burlington, Ontario 

Utilities are another important aspect of the cost of living in Burlington. Utility costs in Burlington can vary depending on the size of your home, your energy usage, and the time of year. Utilities in Burlington, ON generally cover essential services such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage disposal. Below is a brief overview of the typical utility costs in Burlington, ON:

Utility Type	Utility Name	Approx. Cost
Basic Utility Bills	Water, Electricity, Heating, etc	CAD 103
Internet	50 Mbps+, Unlimited Data, Monthly	CAD 80.4

To keep your utility bills manageable, consider energy-saving practices like turning off lights when not in use, and using energy-efficient appliances. Simple habits like these can help reduce your overall living costs while ensuring you remain comfortable throughout your stay in Burlington. However, the utility cost can fluctuate in the winter months when heating demands are higher.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Trois-Rivieres: Updated Prices [2024]

Cost of Dining in Burlington, ON

Burlington has a vibrant dining scene with options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. On average, students in Burlington spend around CAD 725 per month on food. 

Food costs in Burlington are generally in line with other cities in Ontario. However, frequently dining out can contribute to higher living expenses in Burlington, Ontario. 

Cooking meals at home in Burlington, ON is a more budget-friendly approach. By preparing your own meals, you can significantly cut down on your expenses and better manage your overall cost of living in Burlington. Here is a breakdown of the average cost of dining at different types of restaurants in the city:

Type of Restaurant	Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant
Lunce, Inexpensive Restaurant	CAD 22.5
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course	CAD 101
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)	CAD 14.9
Cappuccino (regular)	CAD 4.33

Cost of Grocery in Burlington, ON

When it comes to groceries, Burlington offers a variety of supermarkets and local stores where you can find everything you need. On average, a monthly grocery bill for a student can range from CAD 300 to CAD 350, depending on your dietary preferences and shopping habits which in turn, influences your overall cost of living in Burlington, ON. 

Cooking at home instead of dining out frequently will also contribute to lowering your overall food expenses. Below is a table that outlines the average grocery expenses in Burlington, ON for those who plan to cook at home:

Grocery Product	Approx Price
Apples, 1 kg	CAD 4.02
Banana, 1 kg	CAD 2.02
Oranges, 1 kg	CAD 4.54
Tomato, 1 kg	CAD 4.55
Potato, 1 kg	CAD 3.35
Onion, 1 kg	CAD 4.03
Milk, 1 L	CAD 2.68
Bread, 0.5 kg	CAD 3.41
Rice, 1 kg	CAD 6.68
Eggs, x12	CAD 5.25
Cheese, 1 kg	CAD 19
Water, 1 L	CAD 2.11

Please note: To save on groceries, many students opt for meal planning and bulk shopping, which can help reduce costs. Additionally, keeping an eye out for weekly sales and using discount apps can make a significant difference in your grocery budget. 

Cost of Transportation in Burlington, ON

Transportation is another significant expense for residents of Burlington, especially for those who commute to Toronto or Hamilton for college or university. Burlington Transit provides bus services within the city. A monthly adult transit pass costs around CAD 137. If you frequently travel to Toronto or other nearby cities, a GO Transit pass will be necessary. A monthly GO Transit pass from Burlington to Toronto costs approximately CAD 300.

Transportation expenses are a substantial part of an international student’s total cost of living in Burlington, ON. Proper budgeting for these costs is crucial since they can impact your monthly financial commitments. To aid in your planning, we have compiled average costs for various transportation options available in Burlington, Ontario, as shown in the table below.

Mode of Transport	Approx Cost
Ticket for Monthly Pass in a Public transport	CAD 137
Ticket for Local Public transport	CAD 3.65
Local tariff for the Taxi Ride of 8 km	CAD 22.9
1 L or 0.26 gal Gas / Petrol	CAD 1.53

Also read: Cost of Living in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu: Updated Prices

Miscellaneous Costs in Burlington, ON

Apart from the major expenses like housing, transportation, and groceries, there are other miscellaneous costs to consider when living in Burlington. Miscellaneous costs like membership gym, cinema or theatre tickets, apparel costs, and short doctor appointments costs are covered on your overall living expenses in Burlington, ON. It’s important to keep track of these smaller expenses as they can impact your overall cost of living in Burlington, ON. 

Setting aside a portion of your monthly budget for miscellaneous costs ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected expenses that may arise during your studies at Burlington. By keeping track of these expenses, you can manage your finances more effectively and make the most of your stay in this friendly city. Below is a table that details these common costs.

Miscellaneous	Approx Cost
Movie Ticket	CAD 14.9
Brand Jeans	CAD 62.1
Gym Membership	CAD 50.7
Brand Sneakers	CAD 107
Doctor’s visit	CAD 70.9

Cost of Living in Burlington, ON Compared to Other Cities

Burlington, Ontario, ranks among the top 11% of the most expensive cities worldwide, making it pricier than many other Canadian cities. Knowing the cost of living in Burlington can help you make smarter financial decisions and manage your budget effectively. The city offers a great quality of life, balancing modern amenities with a comfortable lifestyle.

To give you a better idea, we compare Burlington’s cost of living with cities like Toronto, Hamilton, Niagara Falls and Canada. This comparison will help you see how Burlington stacks up and guide you in choosing the best financial option for your situation.

Cost of Living City Wise	Average Cost of living	Comparison with Cost of Living in Burlington,  Ontario
Cost of Living in Toronto	CAD 3510	Higher than Burlington, ON
Cost of Living in Hamilton	CAD 3057	Lower than Burlington, ON
Cost of Living in Niagara Falls	CAD 2537	Lower than Burlington, ON
Cost of Living in Ontario	CAD 3072	Lower than Burlington, ON
Cost of Living in Canada	CAD 2782	Lower than Burlington, ON

Further, use our Cost of Living Calculator to find out how much you’ll need in your desired city. Estimate your study abroad expenses customised as per your preferred course, university, country, accommodation, and lifestyle.

Average Tuition Fees in Burlington, ON

Burlington is close to several universities and colleges, including McMaster University and MacLachlan College. Tuition fees for post-secondary education range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 40,000 annually, depending on the program and institution. International students should consider these fees, as they greatly affect the cost of living in Burlington. 

Proper planning and budgeting are essential to align educational goals with financial resources. The table below provides a detailed summary of the average tuition fees at colleges or universities in and near Burlington, ON.

Institution Name	Approx. Tuition Fees (Annual)
McMaster University	CAD 36,608
MacLachlan College	CAD 16000

Understanding average tuition fees in Burlington, ON, Canada, is crucial for making informed decisions about your education. By managing your budget wisely, you can access quality education while controlling costs. Additionally, explore financial aid and scholarships available from universities, which are detailed on their official websites of Canadian universities.

Tips for Managing the Cost of Living in Burlington, ON

Effectively managing your cost of living in Burlington, Ontario, is essential for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, especially for students and newcomers to the area. By implementing some practical strategies, you can keep your expenses in check and enjoy your time in this vibrant city. Here are some unique and actionable tips to help you manage your budget effectively:

Create a Detailed Budget

Developing a comprehensive budget is the foundation of financial management. By outlining your income and expenses, you gain a clear picture of where your money is going. This approach helps you allocate funds appropriately and avoid overspending.

• Track Your Spending: Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor your expenditures. Categorise your spending into areas such as housing, groceries, transportation, and entertainment.
• Set Financial Goals: Define short-term and long-term financial goals. Whether it’s saving for a trip or paying off debt, having clear objectives helps guide your budgeting decisions.

Save on Renting a Room

Housing is often the largest expense in your budget, so finding ways to reduce this cost can significantly impact your overall financial condition.

• Consider Shared Accommodations: Look for roommates or shared housing options. Splitting rent and utility costs can substantially lower your monthly expenses.
• Explore Affordable Neighbourhoods: Research different neighbourhoods in Burlington to find more budget-friendly areas. Sometimes living slightly outside the city centre can offer substantial savings.

Utilise Public Transportation

Taking advantage of Burlington’s public transit system can help you reduce commuting costs and avoid the expenses associated with owning a car.

• Purchase Monthly Passes: Invest in a monthly transit pass if you use public transportation regularly. This can be more economical than paying for individual rides.
• Plan Efficient Routes: Use transit apps to plan the most efficient routes and avoid unnecessary travel. This will help you save time and money on your daily commute.

Smart Grocery Shopping

Grocery expenses can add up quickly, so adopting smart shopping habits can lead to significant savings.

• Shop During Sales: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts at local grocery stores. Take advantage of promotions to stock up on non-perishable items.
• Buy in Bulk: Purchase staple items in bulk to save money in the long run. Items such as grains, canned goods, and household essentials are often cheaper when bought in larger quantities.
• Compare Prices: Use grocery price comparison tools or apps to find the best deals on the items you regularly purchase.

Living in Burlington, ON, as a student or newcomer offers a balanced mix of affordability and access to amenities. While costs can vary based on your lifestyle and personal choices, adopting these strategies can help you manage your expenses effectively. From creating a detailed budget and finding cost-effective housing to utilising public transportation and shopping smartly, understanding the cost of living in Burlington will enable you to make the most of your time in this dynamic city. By being proactive and strategic with your finances, you can enjoy a fulfilling and financially manageable experience in Burlington.

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FAQs on Cost of Living in Burlington, ON

So, this was all about the cost of living in Burlington, ON. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.