Cost of Living in Montreal

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The cost of living in Montreal is lower than in cities like Vancouver and Toronto but higher than in Calgary and Ottawa. While the cost of living in Montreal is reasonable, your earnings in the city might be slightly lower compared to the rest of Canada, but this varies across different sectors.

Cost of accommodation in Montreal

Although the market has become more competitive recently, the cost of accommodation in Montreal is still largely affordable. The national vacancy rate in Canada recently hit a record low, and Montreal is no exception, with decreasing availability leading to higher rental prices.

While the housing market is still less competitive than in Calgary, Vancouver, or Toronto, it’s worth keeping in mind that while water and heating are often included in Montreal rental agreements, electricity typically isn’t. You’ll need to budget separately for electricity, heating, and water, which can significantly impact costs, particularly during the chilly winter months.

If you want to stretch your earnings, consider living outside the city centre, in areas like Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Verdun, or Montreal-Nord, which tend to be more affordable.

Accommodation in Montreal
Neighbourhoods in Montreal

Cost of transport in Montreal

The cost of transport in Montreal is made easier by an effective and inexpensive public system. The Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) has been expanding in stages, with its southern route connecting Downtown Montreal with Brossard operational since 2023. Fourteen new stations on the Deux Montagnes branch opened in late 2025, with further extensions planned. This new light metro system helps improve connectivity and reduce congestion.

To save on fares, you can purchase and top up an OPUS smart card. This rechargeable card works across major public transport options throughout Greater Montreal and is also accepted by transit authorities in the Quebec City area.

Public Transport in Montreal

Cost of groceries in Montreal

When it comes to the cost of groceries in Montreal, you’ll find prices to be fairly reasonable compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver, although there have been some recent increases. The cost of certain staples, such as dairy and meat, has risen significantly over the last few years.

These price hikes are nationwide, but Montreal remains slightly more affordable than other big cities. That said, residents are definitely feeling the pinch of rising food prices, so it’s wise to budget carefully when doing your weekly shopping.

Eating out is relatively affordable, with a diverse selection of restaurants that cater to all budgets and tastes. Alcohol and tobacco, however, are quite pricey, particularly after recent excise duty increases. If you enjoy a glass of wine or a beer with your meal, keep in mind that prices have gone up, and this is something you’ll need to factor into your budget.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Montreal

Montreal offers an array of exciting entertainment, eating out, and lifestyle opportunities. Bars and clubs in Montreal stay open an hour later than in Toronto, giving you more time for a night out on the town. The city is also piloting extended hours in select districts. Montreal is known for being one of Canada’s most lively party cities, and it’s generally more affordable to go out here than in Toronto and Vancouver.

Montreal’s entertainment scene shifts with the seasons. The city hosts major summer festivals drawing millions of visitors, with plenty of free concerts and cultural performances throughout the year.

Foodies will find everything from classic French cuisine to upscale bistros and quirky sandwich shops, while arts and culture lovers will also find events and performances to suit every budget. Nature and sports enthusiasts will find plenty of free or low-cost outdoor activities.

Lifestyle in Montreal

Cost of healthcare in Montreal

The cost of healthcare in Montreal is subsidised through Quebec’s public health insurance system, administered by the Régie de l’Assurance Maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Eligibility depends on your immigration status and establishing Quebec as your main residence.

To qualify, you must establish your main residence in Quebec and comply with the ‘Presence in Quebec’ rule, which requires you to be present in the province for at least 183 days per calendar year. Eligibility also depends on holding an authorised status, such as Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or a work permit valid for more than six months. Most newcomers face a three-month waiting period before coverage begins.

Not all healthcare services are covered by public health insurance. RAMQ doesn’t cover routine dental care, vision care, or many prescription medications. Many people take out supplementary private health insurance to cover these additional services. If you’re an international student from a country without a health or social security agreement with Quebec, you’ll need private insurance to cover your healthcare during your studies.

Healthcare in Montreal

Cost of education in Montreal

Public schools in Montreal are free for residents, but most are French-speaking, which may be a barrier for English-speaking students. Access to English public schools is governed by the Charter of the French Language. You’ll need a Certificate of Eligibility, which is generally granted if you or your child’s other parent completed the majority of elementary education in English in Canada.

Montreal also offers a variety of private and international schools that cater to the expat community. Although these schools are quite costly in comparison, they are popular among expat families. They offer a range of options from bilingual education to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.

International Schools in Montreal