Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Montreal to Victoria in 2023
Are you considering a move from Montreal to Victoria in 2023? With their distinct climates, culture, and lifestyles, this move will be an exciting journey for anyone who takes it on.
Montreal is Canada’s second-largest city in terms of population with an estimated 1.7 million people living in the greater metropolitan area. It is known for its vibrant nightlife and wide array of cultural attractions like the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil. On top of that, Montreal is also home to many festivals like the International Jazz Festival and Just For Laughs Comedy Festival which make it a great place to live and explore year round.
Victoria, located on Vancouver Island off Canada’s west coast, has a mild climate compared to many other parts of Canada. The city has a population of approximately 92 thousand people as well as many popular tourist attractions such as Butchart Gardens and Royal BC Museum which bring visitors from around the world throughout the year. Residents enjoy access to nature with nearby beaches and trails while also having plenty of opportunities for arts & culture experiences within easy reach.
Relocating to Victoria from Montreal
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting process. However, we have collected the five most essential factors to consider when relocating from Montreal to Victoria in 2023. These include the cost of living, benefits of moving, where to live, pros and cons, and the best moving solutions. Taking into account all these factors will help you plan your move successfully.
Cost of Living
Victoria is a beautiful and vibrant city with a wide range of living expenses depending on the lifestyle. Whether you are looking for budget-friendly rent or some luxurious living, it can be a great place to call home. But in order to determine what is best for you, it is important to compare the cost of living between Montreal and Victoria in order to make an informed decision. The table below outlines how the two cities differ when it comes to expenses related to housing, food, transportation and more.
| Category | Victoria | Montreal |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $293/sq ft. | $235 / sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $381 / sq ft. | $375 / sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,350 / Month | $910 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $250 / Month. | $150-200 / Month |
| Transportation | $85 / Month for a monthly pass on the public transit system. | $86.50 / Month for a regular adult transit pass. |
| Car Insurance | $1,680 / Year | $775 / Year. |
| Entertainment | $200 / Month. | $150 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month. | $300 / Month |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $100 / Month | $75 per month. |
| Health and Fitness | $60 - $100 / Month | $50-80 / Month |
| Sales Taxes | 7% / Year | 14.975% |
Victoria is more expensive than Montreal in terms of real estate and housing, as costs per square feet for production homes and custom-built single-family homes are higher. Additionally, the monthly rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment is greater in Victoria, as well as the utility and insurance costs associated with housing. Monthly transportation costs are similar for both cities; however, car insurance is significantly more expensive in Victoria. Monthly entertainment expenses are also higher in Victoria than in Montreal. Grocery cost, communication costs, health and fitness cost remain the same. Lastly, Victoria has a lower sales tax rate than Montreal.
Benefits of Moving to Victoria
Victoria offers many benefits that Montreal does not, particularly when it comes to the scenery, education and cultural diversity. Hikers and outdoor adventurers can find beautiful beaches, towering mountains, lush green forests and sparkling rivers in Victoria whereas Montreal's landscape is relatively flat. Moreover, Victoria has world-class universities along with a variety of educational opportunities for students of all ages. Meanwhile, Montreal doesn't have quite as many higher-level educational institutions as larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Finally, Victoria boasts a unique culture and colorful atmosphere which is difficult to find elsewhere in Canada; Montreal may have its own distinct culture but it's much less diverse than that of Victoria. Additionally, residents of Victoria enjoy access to quality healthcare services which may be lacking in parts of Montreal where resources are limited.
Best areas to live in Victoria
Finding the right neighbourhood to call home in Victoria can be a challenging task, as the seaside city on Vancouver Island is packed with attractions and offers a diverse range of living options. Choosing between its unique neighbourhoods requires careful consideration; here we provide an overview of five of the best places to live in Victoria.
Uplands
Uplands is a vibrant neighbourhood in Victoria known for its stunning views and surprising hikes. Just minutes away from amazing beaches, this picturesque location has everything a modern family needs. Uplands also offers easy access to the cultural centre downtown, located just 10 minutes away by car. Here, you'll never be short on activities — whether you want to explore the great outdoors or experience culture first-hand. Living in Uplands means having all of these amenities at your fingertips while still enjoying the peace and tranquillity of suburbia. Enjoy spectacular views of the ocean and a laid back atmosphere that provides the perfect balance between modern convenience and quiet relaxation.
Oak Bay
Oak Bay is an affluent neighbourhood situated in the Greater Victoria area. It's a lively and diverse community surrounded by breathtaking scenery: the beach, the mountains and plenty of green areas nearby. Residents can enjoy a range of recreational activities just minutes away, such as whale watching, visiting museums or even playing golf or going sailing. The town centre offers a variety of shops and restaurants for visitors to explore. With its warm climate, easy access to nature and various attractions, living in Oak Bay is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Rockland
Rockland is a vibrant neighbourhood nestled in the heart of Victoria, boasting stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby parks. Rockland is home to diverse cultures, including cuisines from all around the world. It benefits from an abundance of amenities such as schools, grocery stores and entertainment facilities nearby. Residents can take a short stroll to visit some of Victoria’s most iconic landmarks or have easy access to trekking trails in nearby nature reserves. In short, living in Rockland provides excellent balance between modern lifestyle and nature appreciation with plenty of activities close by.
Fairfield
The historic Fairfield neighbourhood of Victoria is known for its vibrant cafés, trendy shops and charismatic character. It's located just a few blocks away from the Songhees Walkway and the beautiful Inner Harbour. From Fairfield, you can reach popular spots like Chinatown in no time. Living in this neighbourhood will be like living in a paradise with so much to do nearby yet still enjoying a peaceful, small-town style atmosphere.
Gordon Head
The Gordon Head neighbourhood in Victoria is home to a diverse population of students, senior citizens and families. Residents are surrounded by the lush forests of Mount Douglas Park and nearby beaches such as Gyro Beach. Shopping centers, restaurants and other attractions are located just minutes away, making it easy to enjoy all that the area has to offer. Commuters can easily access downtown Victoria or nearby municipalities by bus or car in less than 30 minutes. With its eclectic mix of residences, parks, beaches and amenities just moments away, life in Gordon Head is truly unique—perfect for anyone looking for an exciting place to call home.
Pros
- The warm climate in Victoria compared to Montreal offers a great advantage for those planning to move there.
- The stunning Pacific coastline of Victoria provides easy access to a variety of gorgeous beaches and lush nature, which may be more challenging to find in Montreal.
- The lower population density in Victoria compared to Montreal is a distinct advantage for those relocating.
Cons
- Moving to Victoria can be costlier than Montreal due to its high cost of living.
- Moving to Victoria in 2023 may be a challenge, as it is more isolated from major cities than Montreal.
- The lesser cultural diversity in Victoria compared to Montreal when moving from Montreal to Victoria may be a drawback for some people.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Montreal to Victoria?
Moving from Montreal to Victoria can be a challenging task. Finding the right moving solutions is the key to successful relocation. Fortunately, there are many professional and reliable moving companies who offer a wide range of services tailored to fit anyone's needs. Hercules Moving Company, for example, is one of the most reputable names in Canadian moving industry, providing efficient and cost-effective options for individuals and business owners who want seamless transition from Montreal to Victoria. Moreover, with a plethora of services such as packing and unpacking assistance, specialized vehicle transportation, storage solutions and much more - it is easier than ever before to get everything you need for a perfect move from Montreal to Victoria. Meanwhile, customers should always remember to check the company's registration with Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) prior signing any contracts in order assure that their possessions are properly protected during the move.
Conclusion
Moving to Victoria from Montreal in 2023 can be an exciting journey with its distinct climate, culture and lifestyle. Cost of living is more expensive but so are the entertainment expenses, while housing and utilities are also higher than in Montreal. With its stunning views, amazing hikes and easy access to nature, Victoria also offers numerous benefits which make it a great place for families or students seeking quality higher education opportunities as well as a unique cultural experience. It's important to consider various factors when making your move from Montreal such as cost of living comparison between the two cities, the benefits that come with moving to Victoria and where best to live within the city. Additionally, finding a reliable moving service should not be overlooked when planning your relocation; engaging renowned companies like Hercules Moving Company can ensure your possessions get safely transferred without any hassle.
