On New Beginnings and Moving to Montreal

by iROOMit Team
October 4, 2022
5 min read

Montreal in Quebec, the second-largest city in Canada, is geographically an island situated in the country’s southeast. Living in Montreal is excellent, and it is ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities and considered one of the world’s happiest locations. With 45.000 immigrants opting to relocate to the city every year, it is a common choice for people looking to move abroad.

If you are considering moving internationally, this is a great choice. This place is a cultural and artistic hub, with several world-renowned art galleries and exhibitions popping up all over the region. This is one of the most conveniently positioned cities in Canada, just an 8-hour drive from NYC, Toronto, and Boston. In July, people experience hot summers, while winters with snow, wind, and rain can bring freezing weather. Overall, it can definitely be considered to be one of the best places to live in Canada.

As we have already stated, this Canadian province of Quebec is the second most populated city in one of the friendliest countries in the world. Established as Ville-Marie or “City of Mary” in 1642, it is named after Mount Royal, which is located in the center of the city. The area is based on the Island of Montreal and on a few much smaller neighboring islands, of which Île Bizard is the largest. The city sits 122 miles east of the capital Ottawa, and 160 miles south-west of the provincial capital, Quebec City.

his is a place that is very vibrant. It’s full of music, tradition, lovely landmarks, friendly people, and living in it isn’t too pricey. The estimated monthly cost of a single person is about $1,000 per month, according to Numbeo, a website that measures the cost of living in cities around the world. And that’s without the rent. In downtown, the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,000, as well. Watch the video below to see some prices in the old town.

What is Considered a Good Salary in Montreal?

Salaries vary from $26,600 per year to $470,000 per year. Now, bear in mind that you still need to add the taxes when considering how much money you have to make to afford monthly expenses. Although an average annual cost comes to $28,400, to afford those expenses, you currently need to have a wage of $36,700 to live comfortably in this place.

The Cost of Living is Lower Compared to Ottawa

The cost of living in Montreal is considered to be more affordable than the cost of living in Ottawa. For instance, consumer prices here are 4,28% lower than in Ottawa, as well as the amounts needed for rent, eating out, and transportation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Montreal

There are many great neighborhoods in downtown and commuter areas on both the south and the north shore. Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider:

  • Mont-Royal – This neighborhood, which is very popular among students, is close to downtown. A major bonus is the urban Parc du Mont-Royal, and the homes are also very spacious.
  • Pointe-Claire – Although this community is a suburb, it is still on the island, making it a popular place for commuters, especially those who want an outdoor area and a larger home.
  • Brossard – Nearly 80,000 people from a variety of ethnic backgrounds reside in this neighborhood. The more affordable price point, mostly due to the vast number of semi-detached homes, is one explanation for its popularity.

Lower Rents

You’ll notice this place has lower apartment rentals whether you’re coming for education or are single and have a career. As contrasted with many other Canadian towns, this is exceptionally true. Numbeo reports that in downtown, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about 960 USD. That same apartment would cost you about 1,150 USD in Ottawa. Also, you could find great offers, for some landlords might offer you the first month or two without the rent.

Great Public Art Scene and Culture

The town’s lively arts scene and cheap rent draw scores of struggling artists. Some examples of artists, poets, or writers who have called this city home are Leonard Cohen, Mordechai Richler, and the band Arcade Fire. Quebec’s Metropolis is a good place to interact with people who are culturally like-minded. What’s more, after 3 AM, the bars don’t close because there’s still plenty going on late at night. Even more, the city council recently wanted to hold certain bars open past 6 AM. The plan, though, did not go through. Still, here you can find pubs and clubs in almost every street and community. If you are moving abroad alone, you will find friends here soon.

Bicycle Friendly Community

Here’s a great tip if you are moving to this city: you can rely on your bicycle for another form of transport. This city was named the best city in North America for cycling in 2013. It lost that position in the following years, but it remains ranked among the world’s top bicycle-friendly cities. Furthermore, it was the only Canadian city to be named on that list. All in all, cycle lanes are isolated from car traffic and safe for biking.

Getting Around Montreal Without a Car After Moving Here

It is easy, inexpensive, and reasonably safe to come here without your own vehicle. One-third of the households do not own a car. That involves keeping public transport and bicycles a feasible and green alternative to having a personal car, which is in the community’s best interest.

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