Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Montreal to Halifax in 2023
Are you thinking of making a big move from Montreal to Halifax in 2023? This could be quite an adventure since the two cities are vastly different from one another. Montreal is the largest city in Quebec and the second-largest city in Canada, with an estimated population of over 1.7 million people. It is also well known for its unique culture, vibrant nightlife and its delicious cuisine – all of which make it a great place to live. Meanwhile, Halifax is located on the east coast of Canada and has a population of over 400,000 people. It's known for its beautiful landscapes, friendly locals and rich maritime history – all making it an ideal destination to call home. So if you're looking to make this exciting journey between Montreal and Halifax in 2023, there are a few things you need to know before taking this leap!
Moving to Halifax from Halifax
Moving to Halifax from Montreal in 2023? It can be a little overwhelming, considering all the different factors that come into play, but with careful planning, you can make your transition smoother. We have gathered the five most important considerations for you to review before making your move - cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons, and best moving solutions. Let's take a look at each one!
Cost of Living
Halifax, the largest city in the province of Nova Scotia, is a vibrant coastal community with plenty to offer. Moving to Halifax can seem overwhelming, particularly when it comes to cost of living; however, depending on your lifestyle and preferences, expenses can vary greatly. That's why we've put together a comparison table below so you can get an idea of what you can expect when moving from Montreal to Halifax in 2023.
| Category | Halifax | Montreal |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $220 / sq ft. | $246/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $258/sq ft. | $389 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,300 / Month. | $825 / Month. |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $250 / Month | $150-200 / Month. |
| Transportation | $78/month for a monthly adult transit pass. | $86.50 / Month (OPUS card for unlimited access to bus and metro) |
| Car Insurance | $891 / Year. | $750 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200/month. | $150 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $250 / Month | $320 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $80 / Month | $70-80 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50-$70 / Month | $60-100 / month or $720-1200 / year for gym membership. |
| Sales Taxes | 15\% | 14.975% |
Moving to Halifax from Montreal can be a great financial decision for those looking for lower living costs. Real estate production homes in Halifax are about 10% cheaper than in Montreal and custom-built single-family homes are about 33% cheaper. Renting a one-bedroom apartment would also save up to $475 per month. Other monthly expenses such as transportation, car insurance, entertainment, communication and health and fitness are also generally cheaper in Halifax than in Montreal. Groceries are the only exception, costing an extra $70 per month if you move to Halifax. However, sales taxes are slightly higher in Halifax at 15%.
Benefits of Moving to Halifax
The city of Halifax is known for its friendly community, and this welcoming atmosphere makes for a great place to live. Meanwhile, in Montreal there are more crowds and busyness which can be overwhelming. Moreover, living in Halifax is more affordable than Montreal, providing the opportunity to stretch your budget further while still having the amenities you need. The stunning coastal scenery of Halifax also greatly surpasses that of Montreal; with so many rocky beaches and lighthouses there's always something beautiful to explore. Last but not least, Halifax has some incredible historic architecture which can't be found anywhere else - making it a truly unique city to live in!
Best areas to live in Halifax
Choosing a neighbourhood in Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, can be a difficult decision. With wide variety of neighbourhoods and plenty to consider, it's often an overwhelming process. To make your move-in to Halifax easy and stress-free, here is a list of top neighbourhoods with information on each area's main attractions.
South End
Moving to South End can be a great experience for many Montrealers. Known for its low-lying Ferry Landing, Prado Café and its vibrant artistic scene, South End has always been an attractive neighbourhood for people of all ages looking to start new lives. The nearest attraction is the Signature Shop from Halifax Shopping Centre, at only a 10 minute drive away; while Point Pleasant Park is less than 4 kilometers of distance. With plenty of green spaces and established residential areas, life in South End combine convenience with comfort and a relaxed lifestyle by the sea.
Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant is a vibrant and growing neighbourhood in Halifax, known for its picturesque views of the harbour and stunning sunsets. It's located within walking distance from various parks, restaurants, and attractions like Citadel Hill historic fortifications. The neighbourhood is also conveniently located within minutes of downtown Halifax, offering easy access to the city's shopping, nightlife and entertainment options. Residents of Point Pleasant can enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with plenty nearby activities to keep them busy. From leisurely strolls along the waterfront to quick getaways at brightly-colored cafes or nearby beaches – Point Pleasant offers an array of exciting experiences that everyone can enjoy!
Armdale
Moving to Armdale in 2023 promises a unique mix of both historic and modern culture. Set in the heart of the bustling Halifax peninsula, Armdale offers a variety of attractions within easy reach; nearby restaurants, markets and boutiques can be found just a stone's throw away, while beautiful parks and natural scenery await only minutes away. Furthermore, Armdale is well-connected by public transportation—the downtown core is only minutes away by bus or ferry. With its vibrant atmosphere, plentiful amenities and convenient location, life in Armdale would be both relaxing yet stimulating.
Bedford
Moving to Bedford, Nova Scotia is the perfect option for those seeking a balance between small-town and urban life. The town is located just southeast of Halifax and is close to many outdoor attractions like Peggy's Cove, Gibralter Rock Provincial Park, and Rainbow Haven Beach. Bedford itself has numerous amenities including two shopping malls and several restaurants. The distance to local attractions like the Canada Games Centre or downtown Halifax are only 10 to 15 minutes away by car. Living in Bedford offers residents a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature with easy access to all necessary urban amenities.
Shaughnessy
Moving to Halifax's Shaughnessy neighbourhood means that you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a thriving and vibrant community. With its numerous parks and green spaces, Shaughnessy is a residential area perfect for those who love spending time outdoors. It is conveniently located near multiple attractions such as the Citadel Hill, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and the Maritime Museum of The Atlantic. Moving to this neighbourhood provides an excellent opportunity for city lovers who want the convenience of being close to everything without living right in downtown Halifax.
Pros
- The lower housing costs in Halifax makes it a more attractive city to move to compared to Montreal.
- By making the move to Halifax, you have the benefit of being closer to the ocean.
- The warmer weather of Halifax compared to Montreal can be a great advantage when moving there.
Cons
- Moving to Halifax from Montreal can be difficult, especially when considering that you may be far away from family and friends.
- The detrimental effect of moving to Halifax from Montreal is the scarcity of job prospects, making it considerably more difficult to find work.
- The con point when moving from Montreal to Halifax is that it is a much smaller city, offering fewer amenities than those in Montreal.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Montreal to Halifax?
Moving across Canada can be quite a challenge, especially when it comes to finding the right moving company. There are many companies offering different services when it comes to Montreal to Halifax moves, with some of them being Hercules Moving Company and their range of services. Furthermore, depending on your particular situation and needs for the move, there may be other options available such as long-distance vehicle rental or van hire from local providers. Meanwhile, in order to make sure that you're getting quality service from your chosen company at an affordable price, it's essential that you do your due diligence in researching several moving companies' reputations online and confirm their membership with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM).
Conclusion
Moving to Halifax from Montreal in 2023 is a great financial decision and can provide many benefits. Residents will enjoy a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by stunning coastal scenery and plenty of green spaces, as well as access to local attractions such as Citadel Hill, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and the Maritime Museum of The Atlantic. Finding the right moving company is key when planning your move – researching reviews online and confirming their CAM membership are essential steps. Make sure to carefully consider all aspects of moving between cities before making this important decision!
