Cost of Living in Montreal

The cost of living in Montreal is lower than in the likes of Vancouver and Toronto, but higher than in Calgary and Ottawa. Montreal placed 125th out of 227 cities surveyed in Mercer's 2022 Cost of Living Survey, making it the third most expensive Canadian city.

While the cost of living in Montreal is reasonable, earnings in the city are also slightly lower than in the rest of Canada, but this varies across different sectors.

Cost of accommodation in Montreal 

Many expats who move to Montreal find the city’s accommodation affordable. The housing market is also much less competitive than in Calgary, Vancouver or Toronto, so expats should have little problem finding their ideal home.

Cost of food in Montreal

Gourmands looking to explore the culinary scene in Montreal will be delighted to find that groceries and eating out are both relatively affordable. Expats will find a great variety of restaurants, with something to suit any budget and palate. However, newcomers should note that alcohol and tobacco are expensive.

Cost of transport in Montreal

Montreal has an effective and inexpensive public transport system. To save even more, regular commuters can purchase and top up an OPUS smart card to access major public transport in and around Greater Montreal and Quebec City.

Cost of schooling in Montreal

Public schools in Montreal are free for residents, but most are French-speaking, which may be a barrier for English-speaking students. That said, English public schools are also available, but admission requirements can be strict.

As such, many expats opt to send their children to private or international schools that teach their home country’s curriculum. Both of these options, however, are exorbitantly priced.

Cost of living in Montreal chart