Starting Fresh in Montreal: Cost of Living, Neighbourhoods, Work & Life for Newcomers
Montreal is one of Canada’s most unique and dynamic cities — blending European charm, North American convenience, and a welcoming environment for immigrants. As Quebec’s largest city, it’s home to world-class universities, a strong job market, and vibrant multicultural communities.
If you’re planning to build your life in Montreal, here’s what you need to know about settling in — from housing and transit, to jobs, language, and lifestyle.
Where Newcomers Live in Montreal
Montreal offers a variety of neighborhoods suited to different needs, whether you’re moving alone, as a couple, or with your family. The cost of living is lower than in Toronto or Vancouver, and public transit is reliable across the city.
Côte-des-Neiges–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce
Popular with newcomers and international students. Affordable rental options, close to major hospitals and universities like McGill and Université de Montréal.
Plateau-Mont-Royal
Trendy, artistic, and central. Known for walkability, culture, and access to cafes, shops, and parks. Rents are higher, but it’s ideal for young professionals.
Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie
A safe and family-friendly area with green spaces, good schools, and a strong sense of community. It’s close to downtown but more relaxed.
Laval or Longueuil (off-island suburbs)
Located just outside Montreal, these offer lower housing costs and are well connected by metro or commuter trains. Great for families and commuters.
Language Considerations
Montreal is officially a French-speaking city. While many people speak English — especially downtown — French is the language of public services, schools, and most workplaces.
What you should know:
Most jobs require at least basic French.
Newcomers may need to pass French language tests for immigration pathways or to access certain services.
Free French courses are available through Quebec’s immigration ministry.
Even if you don’t speak French now, taking steps to learn will open up more opportunities and help with integration.
Employment Outlook
Montreal’s economy is growing in several key sectors. Jobs are available, but competition can be strong — and French skills are often essential.
Top industries for newcomers:
Information Technology and AI
Aerospace
Education and Research
Healthcare
Customer Service
Transportation and Logistics
Skilled Trades
International students who stay after graduation often find jobs in their field through Quebec’s post-graduate work programs or immigration streams like the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ).
Public Transit in Montreal
Montreal has one of the most efficient transit systems in the country. It’s managed by the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) and includes:
Metro (subway): 4 lines serving most of the island
Buses: Extensive coverage in all boroughs
Commuter trains (Exo): Connect off-island areas like Laval and South Shore
Monthly transit pass: ~$94 for adults; valid across metro and buses
You can get a rechargeable OPUS card for ease of access. Walking and biking are also common, especially in downtown and central neighborhoods.
Things to Do in Montreal
Montreal is a cultural capital — known for its festivals, architecture, and cuisine. Here are some local highlights:
Old Montreal
Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, cafes, and waterfront views. A must-visit for first-time residents and visitors.
Mount Royal Park
Designed by the same architect as NYC’s Central Park. Perfect for weekend walks, city views, and seasonal activities like sledding and picnicking.
Jean-Talon Market
A massive open-air market in Little Italy — fresh produce, local goods, and a great place to practice your French.
Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Free for residents under 30. Offers permanent and rotating exhibitions from around the world.
Festivals
Montreal hosts over 100 festivals a year — including Jazz Fest, Just For Laughs, and Nuit Blanche. Free, accessible, and a great way to meet people.
Multicultural Dining
Explore global cuisine in neighborhoods like Parc-Extension, Côte-des-Neiges, and Saint-Laurent — from Middle Eastern to Vietnamese to Haitian.
Cost of Living in Montreal
Montreal is more affordable than most major Canadian cities — but costs are rising.
Housing: 1-bedroom apartment downtown ~ $1,500/month; suburban areas ~ $1,100–$1,300
Transit: ~$94/month for unlimited travel
Groceries: $250–$450/month depending on household size and diet
Childcare: $8.85/day in subsidized spaces (waitlists may apply)
What Newcomers Should Know
Apply for your RAMQ health card (Quebec’s healthcare system) once eligible.
Get your SIN (Social Insurance Number) to legally work in Canada.
Register for free French language classes if you’re not already fluent.
Start building credit by opening a local bank account and applying for a secured credit card.
Learn about Quebec-specific immigration programs, such as PEQ and Arrima, which differ from federal streams.