Why Move to Montreal?
Montreal’s cuisine and architecture make it feel like a European country, something that most Brits resonate with. Popular job sectors include aerospace, technology, finance, and healthcare, the city provides excellent job opportunities. With a working and living visa option available that favours skilled workers, Montreal makes for a great destination for British expats.
Best Places to Live in Montreal
An ideal area for working professionals, Downtown Montreal is the home of the business and commercial district. The residential area of Outremont boasts proximity to parks and the Downtown area, making it best suited for families. Mile End is one for the creatives, known for its vibrant nightlife and artistic boutiques.
Cost of Living in Montreal
It’s considerably cheaper to live in Montreal compared to the UK (London), with the cost of living being 38.3% cheaper in the Canadian city.
Whilst the cost of groceries are higher in Montreal by 7.8% , property prices are more affordable in the city. The average monthly salary in Montreal after tax is $3,590.63 (£2,023.93) with London offering a higher salary at £3,732 . The cost of living in Montreal is also lower than in Manchester, Edinburgh and Bristol.
Below we compare the cost of living in Montreal with the UK by looking at London prices.
Cost of Living Comparison: Montreal vs. London
Item |
Montreal |
UK (London) |
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre |
$1,692.26 (£953.88)
|
£2,170.83
|
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre |
$9,913.99 (£5,588.22)
|
£13,403.96 |
Monthly salary after tax |
$3,590.63 (£2,023.93)
|
£3,732 |
3 course meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant |
$120 (£67.64)
|
£80 |
1 litre of milk |
$2.99 (£1.69)
|
£1.33 |
1kg chicken fillets |
$17.79 (£10.03)
|
£7.41 |
Monthly travel pass |
$97 (£54.68)
|
£200 |
Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment |
$111.10 (£62.62)
|
£281.33 |
Monthly gym membership |
$46.16 (£26.02)
|
£45.33 |
Monthly private preschool |
$933.13 (£525.98)
|
£1,815.85 |
Data taken from Numbeo.
Property Prices & Rent in Montreal
Rental prices in Montreal are more affordable than other Canadian cities, making it over 50% cheaper to rent in Montreal than in Toronto . In 2024, rental prices in Montreal average at $1,692.26 to rent in the city centre , making it 56% cheaper than in London . It’s also 58% more affordable to buy property in Montreal compared to London . Below is a comparison of rental and buying prices in Toronto compared to London.
Property Prices & Rent in Montreal vs. London
Item |
Montreal |
UK (London) |
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre |
$1,692.26 (£953.88)
|
£2,170.83 |
Monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartment outside of centre |
$1,296.81 (£730.97)
|
£1,630.26
|
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre |
$9,913.99 (£5,588.22)
|
£13,403.96
|
Price per m2 to buy apartment outside of city centre |
$5,817.47 (£3,279.13)
|
£7,956.99
|
Data taken from Numbeo.
Education in Montreal
Children attending public schools in Montreal are expected to go to French language schools, however, there are English language schools available. French will be the main language in Montreal schools, but parents can apply for their children to be taught in English. International schools are also on offer in Montreal, but they will charge a fee.
Job Market in Montreal
The job market in Montreal is competitive and Quebec is boasting the lowest rates of unemployment for 43 years. The technology sector is prominent in Montreal, with software development and artificial intelligence being key areas. Aerospace, finance & insurance and healthcare are also significant sectors in the city. Looking at platforms like Indeed, Linkedin and local websites such as Emploi-Québec will help kick start your job search in Montreal.
Check out our guide on moving to Montreal
for a more in-depth look at everything you need to know, from the best neighbourhoods to settle in and the cost of living, to the local culture and essential moving tips.