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Moving to Montreal, Canada | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Montreal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 04, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Montreal, Canada for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and unique blend of French and English. Montreal is known for its lively nightlife, world-class restaurants, and beautiful architecture. The city is also home to a number of universities and colleges, making it an attractive destination for students and professionals alike. Before moving to Montreal, it is important to be aware of the city's cold winters and the need to be able to speak both French and English. Additionally, it is important to research the cost of living in Montreal, as it is higher than many other Canadian cities.

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What do I need to know before moving to Montreal?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Montreal, they said:

"The most important thing is to ask advice from someone independent of the real estate sector. Real estate agents have a huge interest in selling you houses in the area they work and are rarely independent. Locals tend to be biased toward their own neighborhoods. The best advice will come from a relocation agent who is not tied to realtor who can show you all the good neighborhoods for a day, or ask other expats. TAKE YOUR TIME! Act in haste repent at leisure," said one expat in Montreal.

"Before moving to Montreal, expats should be aware of the city's four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers are hot and humid. Expats should also be aware of the city's two official languages, French and English, and the fact that most locals are bilingual. It is also important to note that Montreal is a very diverse city, with a large immigrant population. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Montreal, which is generally higher than in other Canadian cities. Finally, expats should be aware of the city's vibrant culture, with a wide range of festivals, events, and activities to enjoy," remarked one expat who made the move to Montreal.

How do I find a place to live in Montreal?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"We are in our 4th home in 8 years, moving from rental to rental until buying 5 years ago. Our neighborhood was really decided upon by the schools available to us with Quebec's language laws. If we could use any schools we would live more downtown rather than in the burbs," said one expat in Montreal.

"When looking for a place to live in Montreal, it is important to consider your budget, desired location, and the type of housing you are looking for. Start by researching different neighbourhoods in Montreal to find one that fits your needs. You can also search online for rental listings, or contact a real estate agent to help you find a place. Additionally, you can look for rental postings on websites such as Kijiji or Craigslist. Once you have found a place that meets your criteria, you can contact the landlord or property manager to arrange a viewing," said one expat who made the move to Montreal.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Montreal?

"Expat homes and apartments in Montreal are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments are located in the city's vibrant downtown area, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Expats can also find homes and apartments in the city's many charming neighborhoods, which offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a slower pace of life. Most expat homes and apartments come with all the necessary amenities, such as air conditioning, heating, and high-speed internet," said one expat in Montreal.

"We live in a suburban estate not typical for expats as we have been here a while now. Most expats live near downtown or out on the West of the island," said one expat who made the move to Montreal.

What is the average cost of housing in Montreal?

If you are thinking about moving to Montreal, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Montreal is generally considered to be quite high. Renting an apartment in the city can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 per month, depending on the size and location. Buying a home in Montreal can be even more expensive, with the average price of a single-family home being around $500,000," said one expat in Montreal.

"Housing costs are roughly half those of the UK. an average 2 storey house costs $226,000 dollars but is of course bigger than a similar house in the UK as they usually have finished basements," remarked one expat who made the move to Montreal.

Should I buy or rent a home in Montreal?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Montreal, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether you should buy or rent a home in Montreal depends on your individual circumstances. If you plan to stay in the city for a long period of time, buying a home may be a better option as it can provide you with a stable investment and a place to call your own. On the other hand, if you are only planning to stay in the city for a short period of time, renting may be a more cost-effective option. Additionally, if you are not sure how long you will stay in the city, renting may be a better option as it allows you more flexibility. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Montreal, Canada should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Montreal.

What should I pack when moving to Montreal?

We asked people living in Montreal to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"1. My mother
2. More of my dinner service
3. The BBC 1. Our stereo equipment
2. VHS tapes
3. Most of our furniture," remarked one expat who made the move to Montreal.

"When moving to Montreal, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the winters can be quite cold. A good winter coat, boots, hats, and gloves are essential. It is also important to bring a good umbrella, as Montreal is known for its rainy days. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few layers of clothing, as the weather can change quickly. It is also important to bring a valid passport and any other necessary documents. Finally, it is a good idea to bring some of your favorite items from home to make your new home feel more comfortable," explained one expat living in Montreal, Canada.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Montreal?

We asked people in Montreal if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Montreal. It is important to be respectful of the French language and to avoid speaking English in public places where French is the primary language. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and to dress appropriately for the occasion. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of the local Indigenous peoples and their culture, and to avoid making any insensitive comments or jokes. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local laws and regulations, and to avoid engaging in any activities that are illegal or considered inappropriate," explained one expat living in Montreal, Canada.

Why do people move to Montreal?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Montreal, they responded:

"Montreal is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Montreal is also home to a wide variety of cultural activities, including festivals, museums, and galleries. Additionally, the city offers a low cost of living, excellent public transportation, and a wide range of job opportunities. With its diverse population, Montreal is a great place to meet people from all over the world and experience a unique culture," commented one expat who moved to Montreal.

" Montreal is an international city that attracts people for a variety of reasons. Montreal's economy is the second largest in Canada. As far as expats that move there for work, the largest industries include aerospace, electronics, pharma, printed goods, software, telecom, textile and apparel manufacturing, tobacco, petrochemicals, and transportation. According to CanadaStop0100, Montreal's top employers include such international heavyweights as Bristol-Meyers Squibb (Jobs), Sandoz Jobs, Dassault Systemes (Jobs, and many, many more. There are retirees who will spend part of the year in Canada (U.S. expats who live there up to 180 days can be there without the need of a visa) - visit Travel.State.Gov's Canada Page for more information). Montreal, and other places in the Province of Quebec and its rich French heritage, such as Quebec City, have a lot to offer in terms of cultural experiences for expats. ," said one expat.

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How are healthcare services Montreal?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Montreal, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Montreal are provided by the public health system, which is funded by the provincial government. The public health system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and home care. Primary care services are provided by family doctors, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals. Hospital care is provided by a network of hospitals, including general hospitals, specialized hospitals, and long-term care facilities. Mental health services are provided by a variety of professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers. Home care services are provided by a range of professionals, including nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. Montreal also has a number of private healthcare providers, including clinics, hospitals, and home care services," remarked one expat in Montreal.

What are medical services in Montreal like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Montreal, they replied:

"Montreal offers a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The city is home to numerous hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of services, including primary care, specialty care, emergency care, and mental health services. Montreal also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Montreal Children's Hospital, the Montreal Heart Institute, and the Montreal Neurological Institute. In addition, Montreal is home to a number of research centers and universities that offer medical research and training. Montreal also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide a variety of medications and medical supplies," replied one expat when asked about moving to Montreal.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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