Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Calgary to Montreal in 2023
Have you ever considered moving from Calgary to Montreal in 2023? This article will provide an overview of the two cities, giving you a better understanding of what to expect when making the move.
Calgary is a dynamic Canadian city with a population of 1.3 million that covers an area of 825 square kilometers. It is home to many attractions such as the popular Calgary Tower and Glenbow Museum, offering plenty of culture and entertainment. With its vibrant nightlife, diverse cultural scene and spectacular mountain views, there is no shortage of things to explore in Calgary!
Montreal is Canada's second largest city with over 1.7 million people living within its 581 square kilometer area. From its iconic cobblestone streets lined with French-style buildings to its world-renowned festivals like Just for Laughs, there's something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis! Montreal also boasts plenty of green space throughout its 19 boroughs, making it perfect for outdoor activities any time of year!
Relocating from Calgary to Montreal
Moving from one city to another can be difficult. But don't worry! We've taken the guesswork out by collecting the most important considerations when relocating from Calgary to Montreal in 2023. Cost of Living, Benefits of Moving, Where to Live, Pros and Cons, and Best Moving Solutions are all things you need to be aware of before making a move. With these five considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision that is right for you.
Cost of Living
Montreal is a vibrant and exciting city, but the cost of living can differ greatly from Calgary. Expenses for accommodation, transportation and food vary depending on an individual’s lifestyle, as seen in the comparison table below.
| Category | Montreal | Calgary |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $X / sq ft. | $240/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $311 / sq ft. | $426 per sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,430 / Month | $1,200 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $195 / Month | $200-300 / Month |
| Transportation | $86.50 / Month for an OPUS card, which provides unlimited access to Montreal's public transit system (bus and metro). | $109 / Month (Transit Pass) |
| Car Insurance | $717 / Year | $1,132 / Year |
| Entertainment | $150 / Month | $180 / Month. |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $300 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $85 / Month | $95 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-70 / Month | $50-80 / Month. |
| Sales Taxes | 15% / Year | 5% / year |
Moving to Montreal from Calgary can be a great way to save some money. Real Estate is much cheaper, with production homes costing $X per square foot compared to Calgary's $240 per square foot. Custom-built single-family homes are similarly cheaper in Montreal, coming in at $311 per square foot compared to Calgary's $426. Furthermore, monthly housing costs are lower in Montreal, with a one-bedroom costing on average $1,430 versus Calgary's $1,200. Utilities and insurance also tend to be slightly lower in Montreal at $195 per month versus the range of $200-$300 in Calgary.
Transportation costs are notably lower in Montreal as well; an OPUS card provides unlimited access to public transit for just $86.50 monthly compared to the transit pass in Calgary which is almost 30% more expensive at $109 per month. Car insurance costs are similarly lower in Montreal, coming in at an average of only $717 annually versus the higher insurance rates of around $1,132 annually found in Calgary. Entertainment expenses are slightly cheaper too with an average cost of only $150 a month in Montreal compared to the slightly higher rates of around $180 a month found in Calgary. Grocery and communication expenses remain similar between the two cities but health and fitness cost can be slightly cheaper by 10% or so when moving from Calgary to Montreal. Lastly sales taxes are notably lower too — 15% annually as opposed to 5%.
Benefits of Moving to Montreal
Moving to Montreal has many benefits for those who are looking for a change of pace. For starters, it is renowned for its vibrant culture, which can be seen in the numerous festivals, celebrations and events that take place around the city. Meanwhile, Calgary offers a more laid-back atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and biking trails readily available. Moreover, Montreal offers more affordable living than Calgary - rent is generally lower and there are usually more discounts available on essential goods and services. Additionally, Montreal's food scene is unrivalled with some of the best restaurants in the world located within its bounds. Finally, Montreal boasts beautiful architecture both old and new that will surely captivate anyone who visits or lives there. Whereas Calgary does have some stunning sites to behold all their own but not at the same level as what you can find in Montreal!
Best areas to live in Montreal
Choosing a neighbourhood in Montreal can be quite challenging, as the city is filled with different areas that have their own unique vibe and qualities. A mindful search is necessary to find an area that best suits your lifestyle and preferences. To make this daunting task easier, here is a list of some of the best neighbourhoods in Montreal to call home.
Westmount
Moving to Westmount in Montreal is an attractive prospect for many. It has a mix of French and English populations with the majority being of French Canadian descent, making it one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in Montreal. The neighbourhood is well connected with public transport, allowing easy access to many attractions like Old Port and Mount Royal Park. Going out shopping or dining out is also hassle-free as there are plenty of local boutiques and restaurants to choose from. Westmount also provides a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere for those who want to live a quieter life away from the hustle and bustle of urban living. With its scenic views, tasty cuisine, relaxed lifestyle, and proximity to all types of attractions, Westmount makes for an ideal place for anyone looking for a change in their life.
Outremont
Outremont is a vibrant neighbourhood located in the city of Montreal, home to over 51,500 people. Outremont borders the popular Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood and is bordered by two parks - Jeanne-Martin Park and Parc de l'Île-de-la-Visitation. It's conveniently close to downtown and all of its attractions, with the closest being just 15 minutes away by car. There are many schools nearby, making it a great place for families looking to settle down and start anew. Living in Outremont means having access to various cultures, including French, Greek and Latin American cultures which make up its diverse dynamic. All these aspects contribute to an exciting lifestyle that is sure to give you an enjoyable experience!
The Golden Square Mile
The Golden Square Mile is an affluent neighborhood in Montreal that has long been known for its elegant brownstones and grand old mansions. Surrounding it are the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, some of the city's best restaurants, and a diverse selection of shops. The nearby attractions like Mount Royal Park, St. Joseph's Oratory and Notre-Dame Basilica are all within walking distance from the neighborhood; Old Port is only a few minutes away by car or bike. Living in this prestigious district offers residents a vibrant lifestyle with access to all the amenities one could desire; it's an ideal choice for those looking to be close to downtown while enjoying a prestigious residential address.
Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, one of Montreal's trendiest neighbourhoods, is known for its trendy stores and exotic restaurants. It has plenty of outdoor spaces for nature lovers and urban explorers alike; Saint Joseph's Oratory is located nearby which makes it easily accessible to visitors. The Le Plateau neighborhood has a 10-minute walking distance to many local attractions like the busy Jean Talon Market or the historic Mont Royal Park. Life in this vibrant neighbourhood offers exciting opportunities like wonderful cafés, shops, galleries and events; so those who settle here will definitely feel at home!
Griffintown
Griffintown, a south-western neighbourhood in Montreal, is an iconic and eclectic destination. It features distinctive brick buildings blending with modern high-rises and is neighboured by the Saint Lawrence River and Parc des Rapides. Nearby attractions include the Casino de Montréal, which is located only 3 kilometres away, as well as Biodome de Montreal that's just 4 kilometres away. Living in Griffintown means having all of these amazing sights nearby while also being just a short drive from downtown Montreal. With its vibrant culture and unique architecture, it's no wonder why so many people choose to call Griffintown home.
Pros
- The vibrant cultural scene in Montreal compared to Calgary makes it a great city to move to.
- The rich history of Montreal makes it a much more appealing option than Calgary for those looking to move in 2023.
- In Montreal, you can enjoy some of the most delicious and varied gastronomy in all of Canada.
Cons
- Moving to Montreal from Calgary means enduring extremely cold and long winter months, an environment far harsher and uncomfortable than Calgary's.
- Moving from Calgary to Montreal in 2023 can be a challenge due to a potential language barrier if one is not familiar with French.
- Moving to Montreal in 2023 can mean a more expensive cost of living than in Calgary.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Calgary to Montreal?
Moving to a new city can be overwhelming and nerve-wracking, but it doesn't have to be. Many Canadian moving companies specialize in helping people relocate from one area of the country to another. Hercules Moving Company is just one of the many options available, offering comprehensive services that cover everything from packing and loading items onto the truck to transporting them safely and securely at their destination. Moreover, customers have a wealth of choices when it comes to picking a company for their Calgary-Montreal relocation. However, it's important for consumers to remember that they should always take time out to review a moving company's reputation online before booking its services. Additionally, all professional movers registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) must meet specific criteria prior to receiving their accreditation status, so these are often among your safest choices for long distance moves such as Calgary-Montreal relocations.
Conclusion
Moving to Montreal from Calgary is a great way to save money and enjoy a vibrant culture. There are many neighbourhoods in Montreal to choose from, each offering its own unique attractions and amenities. Westmount and Le Plateau-Mont-Royal are great options for those looking for an exciting lifestyle, while Outremont and The Golden Square Mile offer a more laid back atmosphere. With the right moving company, relocating can be made much easier as they specialize in long distance moves such as Calgary-Montreal ones. Prospective movers should consider the cost of living differences between the cities before making their decision - real estate is notably cheaper in Montreal - along with pros and cons of both locales before deciding if this move is right for them.
