Everything You Must Know Before Moving From Toronto to Montreal in 2023
Have you been thinking about moving from Toronto to Montreal in 2023? With a population of 2.7 million, Toronto is the largest city in Canada and is known for its vibrant downtown core and diverse cultural activities. Whether you take a stroll along the lake or explore one of the many trendy neighbourhoods, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this lively city! On the other hand, Montreal is often referred to as the cultural capital of Canada due to its rich history and French-speaking majority. With an area of over 460 square kilometres, it offers plenty of space for residents to explore everything from its avant-garde art galleries to its world-renowned food scene. Whether you're looking forward to discovering new sights or reconnecting with your roots, there's something special waiting for everyone in this charming metropolis!
Moving to Montreal from Montreal
When considering a move from Toronto to Montreal, there are many factors to take into account. We've compiled the top five most important considerations to make the transition easy and hassle-free. In this post, you will learn the cost of living in Montreal, the benefits of moving there, where to live in your new city, the pros and cons of relocating and which moving solutions are best for you.
Cost of Living
Montreal is one of the largest cities in Canada, and it comes with plenty of cost considerations when moving. From housing to transportation, lifestyle choices can drastically change the expenses you will incur while living in this city. Below is a comparison table of cost of living expenses between Toronto and Montreal to help you get an idea.
| Category | Montreal | Toronto |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (Production Home) | $225/sq ft. | $373/sq ft. |
| Real Estate (Custom-Built Single- Family) | $434 / sq ft. | $700/sq ft. |
| Housing (1 Bedroom) | $1,189 / Month. | $2,300 / Month |
| Housing Utilities and Insurance | $250 / Month. | $250 / month |
| Transportation | $86.50/month for an STM Opus transit pass. | $156 \ Month for a Monthly Pass (TTC). |
| Car Insurance | $650 / Year. | $1500/year |
| Entertainment | $100 / Month | $200 / Month |
| Grocery Cost for 1 Person | $300 / Month | $400 / Month. |
| Communication (Phone and Internet) | $70/month | $80-100 / Month |
| Health and Fitness | $50 / Month | $75-100/month for gym membership. |
| Sales Taxes | 15\% / Year | 13\% / year |
Moving to Montreal from Toronto can save you money in a variety of areas. Real estate in Montreal is significantly lower than Toronto, with a production home costing $225/sq ft., compared to $373/sq ft. in Toronto, and a custom-built single-family home costing $434/sq ft. in Montreal, compared to $700/sq ft. in Toronto. Housing costs are also more affordable in Montreal, with a one bedroom costing an average of $1,189 per month compared to $2,300 per month in Toronto. Transportation is also cheaper in Montreal; an STM Opus transit pass costs 86.50$/month compared to 156$/month for a Monthly Pass (TTC) in Toronto. Car insurance is also lower at 650$/year compared to 1500$/year in Toronto. Entertainment is similarly cheaper at 100$/month vs 200$/month for Toronto, as well as groceries ($300/month vs 400$/month) and communication (Phone and Internet - 70$ vs 80-100$). Health and fitness is slightly cheaper too at 50$/month for Montreal versus 75-100$ for gym membership in Toronto. On top of all that, sales tax are also lower by 2\% per year on average (Montreal - 15\% / year compared to 13\% / year for Toronto).
Benefits of Moving to Montreal
Moving from Toronto to Montreal can be an exciting adventure for anyone, as there are many benefits. For example, Montreal has a vibrant cultural scene with plenty of galleries, theaters and world-class museums. Moreover, its multicultural community makes it a great place to explore different cultures while learning about your own. Meanwhile, the cost of living in Montreal is more affordable than in Toronto, making it a great option for those who don't want to break the bank. Furthermore, the public transportation system is excellent and provides easy access to many points throughout the city. Lastly, foodies will be delighted by all of the amazing gastronomic options available in Montreal – you'll never run out of places to eat!
Best areas to live in Montreal
Choosing the best neighbourhood to move in Montreal can be a tough decision. This is mainly due to the city's wide range of options, which offer diverse lifestyles and attractions. To help you make your decision, here are our top five picks for 2023 - each carefully selected based on their characteristics and suitability for different types of people.
Westmount
Westmount, a neighbourhood in Montreal, is home to an impressive mixture of cultures, religions and communities. It boasts excellent public transportation and beautiful parks ideal for walks and picnics. Nearby attractions range from the historic Mount Royal Park to the iconic Montreal Botanical Garden, both of which are a short drive away. Living here offers many comforts yet manages to offer plenty of cultural stimulation, making it an ideal neighbourhood for anyone looking for a unique Canadian experience in a city full of culture and excitement.
Outremont
Outremont is a diverse and eclectic neighbourhood located in the north-central part of Montreal. This area is home to numerous religious sites, parks, theatres and art galleries that are sure to fulfil any cultural needs. The area is known for its proximity to Mount Royal Park, the University of Montreal campus, and the bustling Place des Arts district downtown. Outremont lies only a short distance from many restaurants, cafes, bars and other entertainment venues making it an ideal place for socializing and exploring different cultures. Living in Outremont also means being easily accessible to many points of interest such as St-Joseph's Oratory or film screenings at Concordia Cinema. Enjoy close proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking or biking along nearby paths while having immediate access to all that the vibrant city has on offer. With its mix of urban amenities combined with natural beauty just around the corner, Outremont offers an exciting selection of activities perfect for expats looking to experience life in Montreal!
Golden Square Mile
The Golden Square Mile is an upscale neighbourhood in Montreal that has a rich history. It borders Mount Royal and the downtown area offering views of both from its homes and winding streets. You can walk or take a short drive to many restaurants, shops, galleries, parks and other attractions like the Old Port of Montreal. Living in this area gives you access to all the city has to offer while still feeling like you're part of a private community with its own unique flair. Enjoy walking around in this residential area while taking advantage of quick access to public transportation and major roads - it's truly an ideal location for those looking for convenience yet privacy.
Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
Le Plateau-Mont-Royal is one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in Montreal. Surrounded by lush green parks of Mount Royal, it is home to many cafes, restaurants, and independent stores. The neighbourhood offers easy access to attractions such as theLachine Canal, Old Montreal, and Notre Dame Church. It also lies within walking distance from McGill University and Mont Royal metro station. Living in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal provides a unique blend of urban living with a small town feel – perfect for people looking for vibrant nightlife combined with plenty of calm green space!
Ville-Marie
Ville-Marie is the oldest neighbourhood of Montreal, known for its charming 18th century architecture and a lively coffee shop culture. It's surrounded by the historic Saint Lawrence River to the east, and Mount Royal Park to the west, providing easy access to breathtaking views and outdoor activities. Ville-Marie is conveniently located close to Old Montreal (1km), Plateau Mont Royal (4 km) and Downtown Montreal (2 km). Living in Ville-Marie means being part of a vibrant community with beautiful landscape views, plenty of nearby attractions, as well as old world charm.
Pros
- The vibrant culture of Montreal compared to Toronto offers a unique opportunity to experience new flavors and ways of life.
- The lower cost of living in Montreal compared to Toronto makes it an attractive option for a move.
- The bilingualism of Montreal is a great advantage for those moving from Toronto as it offers endless opportunities to learn and engage with two different languages.
Cons
- The harsh winters in Montreal can be a significant challenge for many compared to the milder winter temperatures experienced in Toronto.
- Moving to Montreal from Toronto comes with higher taxes, making it a less appealing option for budget-minded movers.
- Moving to Montreal in 2023 can be a challenge, with fewer job opportunities than what is available in Toronto.
What Are the Best Moving Solutions in Moving From Toronto to Montreal?
Moving from Toronto to Montreal requires a lot of planning and research. Fortunately, there are a variety of moving solutions to choose from depending on your budget and needs. Many moving companies offer full service relocation solutions for residential and commercial moves, including packing and loading services, transportation services, storage facilities and furniture assembly. Hercules Moving Company is one such example - they have over 30 years of experience in helping individuals move cross Canada swiftly with their expertise. Moreover, they provide comprehensive protection plans so customers can rest assured that all their belongings will arrive safely at the new location. Meanwhile, it is important to remember to check the reputation of any potential moving company online before making a decision – make sure they are registered with the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). With these considerations taken care of prior to relocating from Toronto to Montreal, you can be sure your move will go off without any unexpected surprises!
Conclusion
Making the move from Toronto to Montreal in 2023 can be a great choice for those looking for everything from cultural stimulation to affordable living costs. With many different neighbourhoods offering something unique and special, such as Westmount, Outremont, Golden Square Mile and Ville Marie, there is sure to be a perfect fit for everyone. Furthermore, there are many reliable moving solutions available that provide a stress-free experience with comprehensive protection plans. All these factors show why making the move to Montreal can be an exciting adventure!
