What are the top 3 affordable cities in Alberta for students?
| CITY | POPULATION | EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION | COST OF LIVING | AVERAGE RENT |
| Red Deer, Alberta | 109,489 | Red Deer Polytechnic | $1741 | $934 |
| Medicine Hat, Alberta | 80,000 | Medicine Hat College | $1,208 | $894 |
| Lethbridge, Alberta | 98,406 | Lethbridge College-University of Lethbridge | $1,150 | $920 |
Finding an affordable living place can be an overwhelming task for a student. Fortunately, in the province of Alberta, Canada, there are a variety of budget-friendly cities for students to explore. The options for cost-effective living and educational opportunities abound from vibrant cities to rural towns. This article will look at some great student cities in Alberta that offer low living costs and plenty of amenities.
Studying away from the hustle and bustle of a big city can be daunting. However, whether you are an international student or a Canadian student looking to get an education away from the chaos, there are ways to make it work.
Prospective students need to research their options thoroughly before committing to any program. This involves finding out about the local employment opportunities in the area and learning about any social activities that may be available nearby. Having a clear plan in place for managing finances while studying away from home is also beneficial. Creating and sticking to a budget can help ensure that money is well-spent during this time.
Alberta is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, making it an excellent place to live. But what if you’re on a budget and looking to attend college? The good news is there are plenty of good cities in Alberta that offer great college programs while also being more affordable.
Find out more about Canadian cities with amazing universities and communities here.
Here are the three most affordable cities in Alberta.
Red deer, ALBERTA
Red Deer is a city situated in the province of Alberta, Canada. It is located equidistant from both Calgary and Edmonton, making it a convenient spot for anyone travelling between the two cities. Students aren’t the only ones to benefit from affordable housing, education, and jobs in Red Deer.
What is Red Deer known for?
Red Deer, Alberta, is a vibrant and growing city in the province’s central region just north of Calgary. As the third largest city in Alberta, Red Deer offers visitors abundant attractions and experiences. From outdoor activities to cultural events, Red Deer is full of exciting things to see and do.
The city has numerous parks and recreational facilities that attract residents from all over Central Alberta for hiking, swimming, skiing, golfing and other outdoor activities. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities with local boutiques and big box stores throughout the city limits. For those looking for a more cultural experience, Red Deer hosts several annual festivals, such as Jazzfest and Paint The Town Red.
Is Red Deer an excellent place to live?
Red Deer is an ideal place to live for students. Located in the province’s centre, Red Deer is close enough to major cities like Edmonton and Calgary to make day trips easy but still has a small-town feel with local amenities and attractions. The community is welcoming and friendly, creating a safe and comfortable environment.
The city has a vibrant art scene featuring a variety of galleries, theatres, music venues and performing arts centres scattered throughout.
The cost of living in Red Deer is affordable compared to other Canadian cities. The average monthly cost of living for a single person in Red Deer is $1,625, including rent, food, utilities, transportation and entertainment expenses. Renters can expect to pay an average monthly rent of $948 for a one-bedroom apartment, while those looking to purchase their own home will pay an average price of roughly $363K. Additionally, food costs are comparatively lower than in other cities, with prices ranging from $3-$8 per meal depending on what type of cuisine you’re looking for.
For those who need more independence and privacy, renting an apartment or suite can be the perfect option. Students can find suites and bachelor studios that offer appliances, furniture, air conditioning, and laundry facilities. And if they’re open to living with roommates, students can rent an entire apartment that allows them to share the cost of the rent. This is especially helpful for those on a budget since splitting rent between multiple people makes it much more affordable. Shared apartments also provide excellent opportunities for socializing with other students, which helps make college life more enjoyable and exciting!
Red Deer is a very affordable city in Alberta for students, and students and newcomers to Canada will find it very welcoming.
What colleges are in Red Deer?
The primary college in Red Deer is Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP), formerly Red Deer College, providing educational services since 1964. It offers over 100-degree programs as well as apprenticeships and certificate courses. In addition to its traditional academic programs, RDC provides continuing education for those looking to upgrade or refresh their skill set. Whether you’re looking for a degree program or just taking some classes for personal enrichment, there’s something available at Red Deer College to help you reach your goals.
Can students find jobs in Red Deer?
Red Deer is an excellent place for local and international students to live and work. With plenty of job opportunities available, it is no surprise that this city has become a significant destination for those looking to start their career.
The oil, gas and agricultural industry are significant employers in Red Deer, making it an ideal location for students who have studied in those fields. Furthermore, many other industries in the area, such as retail, hospitality and healthcare, offer plenty of part-time and full-time job opportunities. International students can find part-time roles not only in the service industry but also as research assistants or teaching assistants at one of the many universities nearby.
Medicine Hat, ALBERTA
Medicine Hat, Alberta, is a stunning city nestled within the rolling hills of Southern Alberta. Known as the “Gas City,” Medicine Hat is home to a booming economy and rich cultural scene. With something for everyone, this city has become a popular destination for business and leisure travellers alike.
Located just 276 kilometres from Calgary, visitors to Medicine Hat can enjoy scenic views of the South Saskatchewan River as it winds along its banks. Along with spectacular natural scenery, visitors can also explore the many attractions this vibrant city offers. Enjoy art galleries and museums, or take in some live music at one of the many local venues. There are plenty of shopping opportunities to pick unique souvenirs or items crafted by local artisans.
Is Medicine Hat an excellent place to live?
Medicine Hat is quickly becoming known as one of Canada’s best places to live. As it’s the sunniest place in Canada, many students, especially those from warmer climates, will enjoy the warm summer days while schools are closed. With its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture, Medicine Hat boasts many benefits for its citizens.
The city’s cost of living is incredibly competitive compared to other cities in Alberta, making it an ideal choice for budget-savvy students who want to stretch their dollars further.
The average rental price for a two-bedroom apartment in Medicine Hat is around $894 per month, significantly lower than in larger cities like Red Deer or Lethbridge. Additionally, groceries and day-to-day expenses are much lower than in many other major Canadian cities. Many international students reside in several great apartments around the college. Although Medicine Hate is one of the best affordable cities in Alberta for students, it’s one of the growing cities because of the quality of education and job availability.
What colleges are in Medicine Hat?
Medicine Hat is known for its rich history and has plenty to offer prospective students regarding educational opportunities. Students looking to pursue a college education in Medicine Hat have several options.
One option is Medicine Hat College, which offers certificates, diplomas, and university transfer credits. The college also provides career-oriented programs such as business administration, nursing, hospitality management, trades and technologies and information technology. Additionally, the college offers various student services such as counselling centers, learning centers and tutoring services. The quality of Medicine Hat College’s programs and the beautiful city are a perfect combination for international students.
Can students find jobs in Medicine Hat?
Medicine Hat is home to many industries, from oil and gas to manufacturing and technology. Numerous retail stores throughout the city and plenty of restaurants may offer part-time or full-time employment. Additionally, many large employers, such as Methanex and Canadian Fertilizers Limited, often have student job openings. With an unemployment rate well below the national average, Medicine Hat offers ample opportunity for those looking to launch their career after graduation. The city also has a lot of restaurant and construction jobs.
Lethbridge, ALBERTA
The city of Lethbridge is located in Alberta, Canada. It is a vibrant and friendly city with much to offer its residents and visitors. With nearly 100,000 people within its boundaries, Lethbridge has become one of the most popular destinations for those looking for an active lifestyle and entertainment.
The city offers several attractions, including Fort Whoop-Up National Historic Site, the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, and Henderson Lake Park. Visitors can also take advantage of shopping opportunities at Park Place Mall or relax in one of the many parks throughout the city.
What is Lethbridge known for?
Lethbridge is known for its natural beauty and unique attractions. From outdoor activities to cultural events, this vibrant city has plenty of things to do and see.
The city has picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains and stunning prairie landscapes, providing visitors with fantastic photo opportunities. There are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy, such as biking, fishing, bird watching, golfing at one of the many courses in the area, hiking trails through coulees or exploring nearby waterfalls. Also, Lethbridge is one of the most rapidly developing cities in Alberta.
Is Lethbridge an excellent place to live?
Lethbridge is an ideal city for students to call home. This thriving city offers various activities, a low cost of living and excellent educational opportunities. Students who choose to settle down in Lethbridge enjoy lots of benefits.
Rent is one of the most significant expenses in living in Lethbridge. According to PadMapper Canada, the median monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $920. The median rental cost is about $1,100 per month for those looking for two-bedroom apartments.
The low cost of living makes it easier for them to save up and pursue their dreams, while the diverse range of activities, restaurants, bars and clubs make it easy for them to have fun. Renting an apartment or house in Lethbridge doesn’t have to be too expensive either – plenty of options are available at reasonable prices. Plus, students can take advantage of local universities and colleges’ numerous scholarships.
What colleges are in Lethbridge?
A great college and university are located in Lethbridge, which offers a variety of educational opportunities. A wide range of programs is available in Lethbridge, including two-year diplomas and postgraduate degrees.
The University of Lethbridge offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in arts, science, health sciences, education, management and fine arts. The university also provides professional development courses at its extension campus located downtown. Lethbridge College offers certificate and diploma programs in engineering technology, business administration and health sciences for those interested in trades or technical training. Students can also take advantage of the college’s extensive career services office, which helps them find jobs after graduation or transfer credits to other institutions.
Can students find jobs in Lethbridge?
Finding jobs in Lethbridge can be a daunting task for post-secondary students. With the city’s population on the rise and many businesses moving to the area, plenty of opportunities are available. Students can find employment in various retail, restaurant, and construction sectors.
Retail stores across Lethbridge always seek help during busy seasons or even part-time hours during the week. These positions typically don’t require any specialized knowledge or experience. This makes them an ideal option for students looking to supplement their income while studying or save some money during school breaks.
The restaurant industry is another great option for students looking to work in Lethbridge. Many restaurants offer flexible hours so that you can work around your studies and have time off when required.
There are a lot of students who work at Tim Hortons during the summer to earn money to pay for their rent. It would be advantageous to research if you still need to be in Canada and plan to relocate to Lethbridge. Students find Lethbridge one of Alberta’s most affordable cities because of its job opportunities and rental prices.
Red Deer, Medicine Hat, and Lethbridge are the most affordable cities in Alberta for students because each city has a unique charm, attractions, and a wide range of educational opportunities. All three cities offer lower living costs than many other Canadian cities, making this trio of Alberta’s most student-friendly cities an excellent option for those seeking economic education.
We would like to hear from you if there are any other reasons why you feel these cities are one of the most affordable cities in Alberta. Would you be willing to share those reasons with us? Let us know what you think by sending us an email.
Mohammed Adan founded If Media, a digital marketing agency specializing in videography and search engine optimization. With a passion for storytelling and visual communication, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication from Medicine Hat College in Alberta, Canada. His previous experience as a journalist in Somalia enabled him to develop a deep understanding of the power of storytelling to connect with audiences. Combining his journalistic background with technical videography and digital marketing expertise, he brings a unique perspective to his work.
