If you’re comparing Bishop’s University in Lennoxville to English-language universities in Montreal, one major difference stands out: affordability. Bishop’s is the only English-language university in Quebec outside of Montreal—and that means you get a high-quality education without big city prices.
Sherbrooke vs. Montreal: What’s the Real Difference?
Living in Sherbrooke is significantly more affordable. Overall, the cost of living here is up to 30% lower than in Montreal, making Bishop’s University affordability a real advantage for students who want to stretch their budget. Groceries, restaurants, transportation, and housing all cost less, and we think you’ll also get a better student experience here.
And while Montreal is a wonderful and vibrant city, Sherbrooke has so much to offer! Bishop’s is located in Lennoxville, a primarily anglophone borough of the city of Sherbrooke (which is a short five-minute drive away). Lennoxville has everything you need within walking distance, from green spaces and walking and bike paths, to groceries and pharmacies, restaurants and bars. Sherbrooke has all the city things; malls and culture and tons of restaurants. And keep going a little further and you’ll find the most amazing hiking trails and ski hills and lakefronts! All with much less financial stress.
Year One: Living on Campus (which we highly recommend!)
Most first-year students at Bishop’s live on campus, and for good reason. It’s convenient, welcoming, and significantly more affordable than similar residence and meal plan packages in Montreal.
At Bishop’s, on-campus housing costs around $800/month, and the full meal plan is about $800/month as well—bringing the total to about $1,600/month (Bishop’s Campus Living Fees). This is where Bishop’s University affordability stands out compared to larger urban campuses.
Compare that to:
- McGill: Residence ranges from $1,400/month, plus a mandatory meal plan at $750/month = $2,100 month
Your savings? Around $500/month—that’s 25–35% less each month while still getting the full residence experience: meals, Wi-Fi, laundry, and all the social connections that come with living right on campus.
Year Two and Beyond: Apartment Living
Starting in second year, many students move into apartments in Lennoxville or nearby Sherbrooke. Renting here is also far more affordable than in Montreal.
- Sherbrooke: A typical 2-bedroom apartment rents for $1,200/month. Split between two, that’s just $600 each.
- Montreal: The same apartment often costs $1,800/month, or $900/month per person.
That’s another C$300/month in savings—and with lower utility costs and minimal transit expenses, off-campus life in Sherbrooke stays budget-friendly.
Bishop’s University Affordability: No Car Required
In Lennoxville, everything is close. You can walk or bike to campus, grab groceries, or head to a local café—no car necessary. And if you’re heading to Montreal for the weekend, Limocar offers over 25 departures per day with student discounts of up to 20%. Ride-shares and carpool groups are also super popular and affordable, typically running around $20 for a one-way ride.
Compare that to the cost of maintaining a car, or even a monthly metro pass in Montreal, and it’s easy to see the day-to-day savings stack up.
The Bottom Line
When you’re deciding where to go to university, cost matters—and Bishop’s offers serious value:
- Up to 30% lower living costs than Montreal
- $500/month saved on residence + meals in first year
- $300/month saved on rent in second year and beyond
- No car needed thanks to a walkable, student-friendly town
- Easy travel to Montreal with affordable bus and ride-share options
Over four years, those savings could add up to $15,000 or more—all while enjoying a tight-knit, English-speaking campus community in one of Quebec’s most charming cities.
Sherbrooke isn’t just affordable—it’s a smart investment in your future.
When you’re deciding where to go to university, cost matters—and Bishop’s University affordability offers serious value. Thinking of applying to Bishop’s? Come visit, explore Lennoxville, and see how far your budget can really go.
