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Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, offers a welcoming environment with stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural history. If you’re considering this city for higher education, understand the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie is essential for effective financial planning. So, what cost of living in Sault Ste. Mary, what should a student expect while there?
The cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie includes various expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment. This guide will provide you with an overview of the key expenses you can expect in Sault Ste. Marie. It will help you make an informed decision about relocating to the city. Let’s explore the details of the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie, which will assist you in preparing for a smooth transition to study in Canada.
This Blog Includes:
- Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie Overview
- Costs of Accommodation in Sault Ste. Marie
- Utility Cost in Sault Ste. Marie
- Cost of Dining in Sault Ste. Marie
- Grocery Cost in Sault Ste. Marie
- Transportation Cost in Sault Ste. Marie
- Miscellaneous Costs in Sault Ste. Marie
- Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie Compared to Other Cities
- Average Tuition Fees in Sault Ste. Marie
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie
Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie Overview
The average cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie for a single person is approximately CAD 2037 per month, according to LivingCost data. This includes expenses such as rent, which ranges from CAD 890 to CAD 1091 for a one-bedroom apartment, food costs of about CAD 703, and transportation expenses of approximately CAD 80.5 per month. The total cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie can vary depending on lifestyle choices, the specific area, and other personal factors.
Compared to the world’s most expensive cities, Sault Ste. Marie falls within the top 37% of the most costly places to live. It ranks 136th out of 153 Canadian cities in terms of living expenses. Key categories that influence the overall cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie is housing, food, utilities, transportation, etc. This comprehensive overview offers valuable insights for those planning to move to Sault Ste. Marie, assisting in effective financial planning.
Also Read: Cost of Living in Abbotsford BC: Updated Prices
Costs of Accommodation in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie provides an affordable rental market with options including apartments, townhouses, basement suites, and detached houses. Apartments near the water are reasonably priced, and many are situated in charming historic buildings, before moving to Sault Ste. Marie for studies in Canada, it’s essential to research and compare accommodation options in Sault Ste. Marie thoroughly.
Understanding the housing rental can help students find suitable housing that fits their needs and budget accordingly. However, Sault Ste. Marie offers a range of choices, from affordable apartments to expensive apartment options.
Here’s a breakdown of average rental costs for different types of apartments, both within and outside the city centre:
| Apartment Type | Location | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| 1 bedroom | in the City Centre | CAD 1091 |
| 3 bedrooms | in the City Centre | CAD 2181 |
| 1 bedroom | Outside of Centre | CAD 890 |
| 3 bedrooms | Outside of Centre | CAD 1873 |
Utility Cost in Sault Ste. Marie
In Sault Ste. Marie, the average monthly utility costs for a one-bedroom apartment are around CAD 89.3. These expenses can fluctuate based on the utilities you use and the size of your apartment. It’s crucial to factor in these utility costs when budgeting, as they can significantly impact your overall cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.
Utilities in Sault Ste. Marie covers essential services that enhance daily life, such as electricity, water, heating, internet, and waste management. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect in terms of typical utility costs in Sault Ste. Marie:
| Utility Type | Utility Name | Approx. Cost |
| Basic Utility Bills | Water, Electricity, Heating, etc | CAD 89.3 |
| Internet | 50 Mbps+, Unlimited Data, Monthly | CAD 92.9 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Saskatchewan: Updated Prices
Cost of Dining in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie’s food scene, known for its Italian cuisine and pizza, is now embracing diverse international flavours. The city offers a range of delicious and affordable dining options. However, Regularly eating at restaurants can increase your overall cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie, Canada.
On average, students in Sault Ste. Marie might spend around CAD 703 per month on food. However, cooking at home can be a more budget-friendly way to manage expenses. Preparing meals at home can lead to significant savings, helping to lower the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie. Here’s an overview of the average cost of a meal at different types of restaurants in Sault Ste. Marie:
| Type of Restaurant | Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant |
| Lunch Menu | CAD 20.1 |
| Dinner in a Restaurant, for 2 person | CAD 111 |
| Fast food meal, equiv. McDonald’s | CAD 13.6 |
| Cappuccino | CAD 4.81 |
Grocery Cost in Sault Ste. Marie
Grocery expenses significantly impact the daily cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie, particularly for those who prefer cooking at home. The amount you spend on groceries will vary depending on your meal preferences and dietary needs, which directly influence the overall cost of living in the city.
To effectively manage grocery expenses, it’s a good idea to compare prices across different stores and vendors. Prices can vary based on factors like product quality, quantity, and store location. Below is a table outlining the average grocery expenses in Sault Ste. Marie for individuals who plan to cook at home:
| Grocery Items | Average Cost |
| Milk (1 L ) | CAD 2.52 |
| Bread (0.5 kg ) | CAD 2.36 |
| Rice (1 kg ) | CAD 2.33 |
| Eggs (x12) | CAD 4.54 |
| Cheese (1 kg ) | CAD 24.70 |
| Chicken Breast (1 kg ) | CAD 18.90 |
| Round Steak (1 kg ) | CAD 22.10 |
| Apples (1 kg ) | CAD 5.41 |
| Banana (1 kg ) | CAD 3.22 |
| Oranges (1 kg ) | CAD 3.76 |
| Tomato (1 kg ) | CAD 4.61 |
| Potato (1 kg ) | CAD 3.94 |
| Onion (1 kg ) | CAD 3.00 |
Transportation Cost in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie offers a well-developed transportation network that makes getting around the city and its surroundings straightforward for students. Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services offers reliable and comfortable public transportation. Commuting to and from college is a daily necessity, making transportation costs a significant part of your overall cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie.
Understanding transportation costs is crucial for effective budgeting, as these expenses can impact your monthly budget of the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie. To assist with planning, we have outlined average prices for various transportation options in Sault Ste. Marie in the table below.
| Mode of Transport | Approx Cost |
| Ticket for Monthly Pass in a Public transport | CAD 101 |
| Ticket for Local Public transport | CAD 3.11 |
| Local tariff for the Taxi Ride of 8 km | CAD 20.9 |
| 1 L or 0.26 gal Gas / Petrol | CAD 1.54 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Ontario: A Comprehensive Guide
Miscellaneous Costs in Sault Ste. Marie
When studying in Sault Ste. Marie, Canada, miscellaneous expenses are part of daily life and can affect your budget. These costs, which include gym memberships, movie tickets, clothing, and minor medical appointments, should be considered when planning your cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie.
Although the amount you spend on these items can vary based on your lifestyle and preferences, it’s crucial to include them in your budget. Keeping track of these costs helps you manage your finances effectively and make the most of your time in this welcoming city. Below is a table that outlines these typical expenses.
| Miscellaneous | Approx Cost |
| Movie Ticket | CAD 14.2 |
| Brand Jeans | CAD 59.9 |
| Fitness Club | CAD 20.2 |
| Brand Sneakers | CAD 85.2 |
| Doctor’s visit | CAD 92.1 |
Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie Compared to Other Cities
Sault Ste. Marie stands out for its affordability, especially when compared to many other Canadian cities. Understanding the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie can help you make better decisions about your budget and housing. The city offers a balanced lifestyle, combining cost-effectiveness with a high quality of life.
To give you a clearer picture, we compare Sault Ste. Marie’s cost of living in cities like Ontario, Toronto, Montreal, and Canada. This comparison of living expenses will help you evaluate how Sault Ste. Marie fares against these cities and assists you in finding the best financial fit for your needs.
| Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living | Comparison with Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie |
| Cost of Living in Ontario | CAD 3072 | Higher than Sault Ste. Marie |
| Cost of Living in Toronto | CAD 3510 | Higher than Sault Ste. Marie |
| Cost of Living in Montreal | CAD 2481 | Higher than Sault Ste. Marie |
| Cost of Living in Canada | CAD 2782 | Higher than Sault Ste. Marie |
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 Sault Ste. Marie
International students should be aware of tuition fees at universities in Sault Ste. Marie, as the university tuition costs significantly impact the overall cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie City. Tuition fees in the universities of Sault Ste. Marie varies based on the program and level of study. It is essential to plan and budget accordingly. By aligning your educational goals with your financial resources, you can make well-informed decisions about studying in Sault Ste. Marie.
The table below provides a clear overview of the average tuition fees at universities and colleges in Sault Ste. Marie. This information will help you understand the typical costs associated with higher education in the city and assist you in planning your academic journey effectively.
| University Name | Approx Tuition Fee |
| Algoma University | CAD 14,810 to CAD 24530 |
| Sault College | CAD 13500 – CAD 18250 |
By planning their finances well, students can maximise their opportunities to receive a high-quality education at an affordable price. It’s also advisable to check for financial aid or scholarships available on the official websites of Canadian universities.
Conclusion: Sault Ste. Marie offers an affordable option for students pursuing higher education. The city features lower average rent, manageable daily expenses, and a generally reduced cost of living compared to larger urban centres. Its affordability, combined with picturesque surroundings and a community-focused atmosphere, makes Sault Ste. Marie an appealing choice for those seeking to balance cost with a high quality of life.
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FAQs on Cost of Living in Sault Ste. Marie
Answer: For a single person, the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie typically costs around CAD 2037 per month. This amount can fluctuate based on individual preferences and lifestyle. Many international students find these expenses manageable and enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in the city.
Answer: To live comfortably in Sault Ste. Marie, you should budget ranges from CAD 890 to CAD 1091 for housing rent per month. Rental costs can differ based on location: you’ll generally find higher rents in the city centre and more affordable options in areas outside the central districts.
Answer: Living in Sault Ste. Marie is quite budget-friendly compared to many other Canadian cities. A single person typically spends around CAD 2037 per month on the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie. With a ranking of 136th for cost among Canadian provinces, Sault Ste. Marie offers a high quality of life, complete with excellent amenities and a vibrant cultural scene.
Answer: For a single person, the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie is generally around CAD 2,037 per month. In contrast, the cost of living in Toronto is significantly higher, typically around CAD 3,510 per month.
So, this was all about the cost of living in Sault Ste. Marie. 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.
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