Cost of Living in London, Ontario: Updated Prices [2024]

London Ontario attracts students from around the globe seeking high-quality education in a welcoming community. Its key attractions are its high standard of living and the reasonable cost of living in London, ON, making it an appealing destination for international students. So, What is the cost of living in London, ON?

Suppose you are relocating here for your higher education and want to estimate. In that case, how much is the average cost of living in London, Ontario, this blog is absolutely useful for you. Please keep reading to know more. 

Cost of Living in London, Ontario

The average cost of living in London, ON for a single person is around CAD 2816 monthly, according to LivingCost data. This includes expenses such as rent, which costs from CAD 1492 to CAD 1847 for a one-bedroom apartment, monthly food costs of about CAD 705, and transportation expenses of approximately CAD 190 monthly. The cost of living in London, Ontario depends on the standard of living, area and other essentials a student prefers.

London, Ontario ranks in the top 18% of the world’s most expensive cities, placing 1642th out of 9294 globally and 38th out of 153 within Canada. The cost of living in London, Ontario encompasses various expenses, including utility bills, housing rent, transportation passes, entertainment costs, food, and grocery expenses. Below, we provide an overview of these categories for those considering residing in this city. Here is a detailed look:

Also Read: Cost of Living in Calgary: Updated Prices, Other Cities Comparison

Costs of Accommodation in London, Ontario

Accommodation is a major part of the cost of living expenses in London, Ontario. When planning your budget, it’s crucial to include this cost. Generally, London, Ontario offers less expensive housing rent compared to other Canadian cities. The rent can vary according to the location, size, and type of accommodation you prefer. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre generally costs around CAD 1847.

Before moving to London, Ontario it is essential to carefully research and compare the apartment rent of different areas to ensure whether they meet your needs and budget. For your convenience, we have compiled the average cost of housing data for various flats located both inside and outside the city centre.

Apartment Type	Location	Approx. Monthly Cost
1 bedroom	in the City Centre	CAD 1847
3 bedrooms	in the City Centre	CAD 2888
1 bedroom	Outside of Centre	CAD 1492
3 bedrooms	Outside of Centre	CAD 2232

Cost of a Utility in London, Ontario 

Utilities in London, ON encompass a range of essential services that enhance residents’ quality of life. The services that are included in utility are electricity, water, heating, internet, and waste management. Understanding these utilities’ costs can help students manage their household expenses effectively there.

The monthly utility cost for a one-bedroom apartment in London, Ontario could be around CAD 126. However, the cost of utility bills in London, Ontario depends on the utility services used and the size of the apartment. Planning your monthly cost of living in London, ON must include the utility expenses as they can affect your overall costs. The table below provides an overview of the average utility expenses in London, Ontario:

Utility Type	Utility Name	Approx. Cost
Basic Utility Bills	Water, Electricity, Heating, etc	CAD 126
Internet	50 Mbps+, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL monthly	CAD 70.6

Also Read: Cost of Living in Sheffield: Updated Prices, Other Cities Comparison

Cost of Dining in London, Ontario

London, Ontario’s restaurants cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences for food lovers and make dining out an exciting experience for them. Although dining out expenses in London, Ontario may be affordable and delightful, their price can vary depending on the type of restaurant, the cuisine, the number of people and the dining location. 

Eating out regularly can affect the cost of living in London, ON for students. So the good idea is that cooking at home can be affordable for them. Here’s an approx estimate of the moderate cost of a meal at restaurants in London, Ontario:

Type of Restaurant	Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant
Lunch Menu	CAD 19.1
Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 person	CAD 82.8
Fast food meal, equiv. McDonald’s	CAD  14.5
Cappuccino	CAD 4.99

Cost of Grocery in London, Ontario

The grocery expenses are the daily expenses if you prepare food at your residence and your meal preferences will decide the expenses of groceries there. Because of this, the cost of groceries can influence the overall cost of living in London, Ontario. 

To get the best value when shopping for groceries in London, Ontario, it’s important to compare prices across different stores or vendors. Grocery prices can vary based on factors such as the quality and quantity of the products, as well as the store’s location and availability. Below is a table summarizing the average grocery expenses in London, Ontario, if you plan to cook food in your room:

Grocery Item	Approx Cost
1 litre of Regular Milk	CAD 2.47
1kg white Rice	CAD 3.16
500g Bread (White)	CAD 3.24
1kg Banana	CAD 1.7
1kg Oranges	CAD 4.59
1kg Apples	CAD 5.34
1kg Onion	CAD 2.48
1kg Tomato	CAD 4.82
12 Eggs	CAD 4.39
1kg Potato	CAD 2.44
1 litre Water bottle	CAD 1.81

Cost of Transportation in London, Ontario

London, Ontario emphasises multi-modal transportation, which aims to provide safe and efficient options whether you prefer to walk, take a bus, ride a bike or drive yourself around town. The London, Ontario Transit Commission (LTC) plays a central role in this effort by offering a range of public transportation services, with its bus fleet being the largest component. The city’s extensive network includes dozens of buses that connect various points across London, Ontario.

It is important to evaluate transportation costs in London, Ontario for you as a student because you will have to commute to and from college, and transportation costs can affect the total cost of living in London, Ontario. For your reference, we have given the average transportation cost in the table below so that you can estimate your transportation budget accordingly. Take an overview so that you can hang around the London, Ontario area comfortably:

Mode of Transport	Approx Cost
Ticket for Monthly Pass in a Public transport	CAD 103
Ticket for Local Public transport	CAD 3
Local tariff for the Taxi Ride of 8 km	CAD 38.2
1 L or 0.26 gal Gas / Petrol	CAD 1.5

Also Read: Cost of Living in Norway: Updated Prices, Other Countries Comparison

Miscellaneous Costs in London, Ontario

In addition to essential living expenses like housing, utilities, transportation and groceries, various miscellaneous costs may you bear after some time in your ideal time such as a gym subscription, movie tickets, a pair of dresses, small doctor’s appointments, etc. These Miscellaneous expenses an expat should consider when managing their budgets for London, Ontario.

Miscellaneous expenses can vary depending on individual lifestyles and preferences but these expenses are important factors to consider in overall financial planning. You may require them at your ideal time after settling in London, Ontario properly. Please refer to the table below for a detailed list of these charges.

Miscellaneous	Approx Cost
Gym Membership, per month	CAD 56.7
Movie Ticket	CAD 14.8
Brand Jeans	CAD 81.1
Fitness Club	CAD 56.7
Brand Sneakers	CAD 131
Doctor’s visit	CAD 68

Cost of Living in London, ON Compared to Other Cities

London, Ontario is commonly considered a moderately reasonable city to live in comparison to some cities or states in Canada. When comparing the cost of living in London, ON to other areas, several aspects come into the picture, like housing, transportation, food, entertainment, etc. London, Ontario remains an attractive option within Canada for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with lower living expenses.

So to give you an idea of ​​how the cost of living in London, ON compares to other Canadian cities like Calgary, Toronto, Ottawa, and Edmonton. We’ve given the cost of living in other cities. Please have a look:

Cost of Living City Wise	Average Cost of living	Comparison with Cost of Living in London, ON
Cost of Living in Calgary	CAD 2879	Higher than London, ON
Cost of Living in Toronto	CAD 3510	Higher than London, ON
Cost of Living in Ottawa	CAD 2956	Higher than London, ON
Cost of Living in Edmonton	CAD 2360	Lower than London, ON
Cost of Living in Canada	CAD 2782	Lower than London, ON

Average Tuition Fees in London, Ontario

Tuition fees in universities of London, ON vary widely based on the university, program, and level of study you prefer. Many universities offer lower tuition rates, while some offer specialised programs with higher fees. Do you know university fees can significantly impact your cost of living in London, Ontario? 

Prospective students should consider their educational goals, and financial resources, and check the available scholarships or financial aid provided by the university when planning their studies in London, Ontario. Careful financial planning can help students maximise high-quality educational opportunities. Below is a table summarising the tuition fees at selected London, Ontario universities:

Name of University	Approx Tuition fees per year
Western University	CAD 12910 –  CAD 127000
Fanshawe College	CAD 9060 K – CAD 41890 K
King’s University College	CAD 34590 K – CAD 56800 K

Students can plan their finances more effectively by understanding the average tuition fees at universities in London, Ontario. Although tuition fees in London, Ontario are generally lower than in other Canadian cities’s universities.

How to Manage the Cost of Living in London, ON

Managing the cost of living in London, ON, as a student involves smart financial planning and making informed choices. Here are some tips to help you manage your expenses effectively:

Create a Budget: Start by making a detailed budget. List all your income sources, such as scholarships, part-time jobs, or financial support from your family. Then, track your expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. Stick to your budget to avoid overspending.

Find Affordable Housing: Look for affordable housing options. Consider sharing an apartment with roommates to split the cost. Living slightly farther from the campus can also save you money on rent. Check out student housing services and online rental listings for good deals.

Cook at Home: Cooking at home is usually cheaper than eating out. Plan your meals, make a shopping list, and buy groceries in bulk to save money. Preparing your own meals can also be healthier and more satisfying.

Use Public Transportation: Save on transportation costs by using public transit. London, ON, has a reliable bus system that can get you around the city. Consider getting a student transit pass for discounted rates. Walking or biking are also great ways to save money and stay active.

Take Advantage of Student Discounts: Many stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues offer discounts to students. Always carry your student ID and ask if a discount is available. These savings can add up over time.

Work Part-Time: Consider getting a part-time job to supplement your income. Look for positions on campus or in nearby businesses that offer flexible hours to fit your study schedule. This can help cover your expenses and reduce financial stress.

Apply for Scholarships and Grants: Research and apply for scholarships and grants. Many organizations offer financial assistance to students based on academic performance, financial need, or specific talents. These funds can significantly reduce your educational costs.

By following these tips, you can manage the cost of living in London, ON, and make the most of your time as a student. Planning ahead and making smart financial choices will help you enjoy your studies without worrying about money.

Conclusion: Understanding the essential costs that contribute to the cost of living in London, Ontario, Canada helps students budget wisely. This knowledge enables students to manage their finances effectively, enjoy the local culture, and maintain a comfortable lifestyle while studying.

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FAQs on Cost of Living in London, Ontario

So, this was all about the cost of living in London, Ontario. 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.